What is dry cupping?
Dry cupping uses small cups placed on the skin over a muscle. The air inside is drawn out to create gentle suction that lifts the skin and the tissue just beneath it. "Dry" means nothing is put on or through the skin: no needles and no cuts.
What it feels like
A pulling, tightening feeling under each cup. The cups usually stay on for a few minutes, sometimes while Ismail moves them gently along the muscle.
The marks
Cupping often leaves round, red or purple marks where the cups were. They aren't bruises from a knock, they don't usually hurt, and they normally fade within a few days to a week. If you have an event coming up, mention it and Ismail can plan around it.
Where it fits in your care
Ismail uses dry cupping as one part of soft tissue work, alongside chiropractic care and exercises, never on its own as a whole treatment.
Is it right for you?
At your first home visit Ismail asks about your health and history and carries out a thorough assessment before suggesting any treatment. He explains what he would like to do and why, and only goes ahead with your consent. If a technique isn't suitable for you, he'll say so and suggest another option, or recommend you see your GP.
Questions
Is cupping suitable for everyone?
No. Ismail checks your health history first. It isn't used over broken or irritated skin, and he will tell you if it isn't right for you.