Jennifer Aniston wasn’t getting away from the question that was in the back of all of our minds: What in the world were those circular marks on her back that were seen when she stepped onto the red carpet in May 2013. She’s not the first one whose been seen in public with these unusual markings. Gwyneth Paltrow, Jessica Simpson, and David Arquette all have snapshots of them with these strange markings.
According to reports, Aniston admitted that the marks were the result from an ancient Chinese treatment called “cupping therapy.” This form of alternative medicine is said to reduce swelling and pain by improving blood flow and the bodily energy referred to as “qi.” Many Chinese cultures believe in improving qi in order to promote wholesome healing.
Licensed acupuncturist, Jordanna Dworkin says that cupping therapy is most beneficial for individuals who have “phlegm congestion in the lungs, aches and pain along the back, and abdominal cramping.”
Southwest Spine and Pain physicians believe in a conservative approach to therapy and healing, and encourage patients to seek alternative medicine in addition to therapy administered and recommended at the facility.
In a cupping therapy session, a practitioner will place small cups (made of either glass, plastic, or bamboo) on the skin in specific regions of the body. Suction, by a hand pump or heat from a flame, is administered on the cups and is maintained for about 20 minutes. The suction and heat promote blood flow, and blood is drawn in areas where the cups are placed.
Not everyone is on board with this phenomenon. Dr. Marc Siegel, associate professor of medicine at the New York University School of Medicine, says “I would label cupping therapy in the category of a placebo effect. It’s a waste of time and money.”
The procedure typically costs anywhere between 50 and 100 dollars. While that may not seem a lot to some, it can become pretty costly when therapy is needed regularly. “Relief will last for several days to one week, but additional treatments may be required for more chronic conditions,” says Dworkin.
Other than large, circular marks from the suction, there are no threatening side effects. While the procedure is safe and potentially momentarily effective, tests need to be conducted to measure the validity. For now, we leave our trust in the testimony from A-list celebrities.
Southwest Spine and Pain Center offers a slue of treatments that target treating chronic pain conditions. Before seeking outside sources, patients should speak with their physician about provided treatments that are offered in the facility and are truly effective.
If chronic pain is impacting your life, don't wait to schedule an appointment at Southwest Spine and Pain Center. With three locations and growing, the pain management specialists at Southwest Spine and Pain Center are dedicated to helping those who suffer from chronic pain live the life they want to! To schedule an appointment, visit our locations tab!
The advice and information contained in this article is for educational purposes only, and is not intended to replace or counter a physician’s advice or judgment. Please always consult your physician before taking any advice learned here or in any other educational medical material.
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