Cupping therapy

Cupping ("hijama" in Arabic) is one of the oldest human therapeutic techniques. Present in traditional Chinese medicine (over 2000 years), Arab-Muslim medicine ("hijama" mentioned in hadith), ancient European medicine and many tribal traditions. Highly publicized by Olympic athletes (Michael Phelps in 2016).

Cups (in glass, silicone, plastic or bamboo) are applied to the skin by suction (by heat or pump). This suction creates local decompression which: detaches fascia, drains blood or lymph stasis, stimulates local circulation, releases deep muscular tensions. Exists in "dry" version (without bloodletting) or "wet" (with small incisions, traditional hijama).

A session lasts 30 to 60 minutes. You lie down, back or legs uncovered. The practitioner applies 5 to 15 cups on areas to treat, leaves them in place 5 to 15 minutes. Pulling sensation, sometimes tolerable discomfort. Circular reddish or purplish marks remain 3 to 10 days — that is normal and expected.

Chronic muscular tensions (back, neck, shoulders), sports recovery, respiratory disorders (bronchitis, mild asthma as complement), stress-related digestive disorders, chronic fatigue. Wet hijama is more controversial and less widespread in the West.

Clinical evidence is mixed: likely beneficial effect on musculoskeletal pain (positive meta-analyses), but effect on sports performance not demonstrated. Wet hijama has little robust evidence but a long empirical tradition.

Prefer practitioners trained in traditional Chinese medicine (acupuncturists in Quebec) or physiotherapy with specialization. For traditional hijama: practitioners trained in the Arab-Muslim tradition with strict hygiene. Typical fees: $60 to $100 per session.