Cupping Therapy
Certified Practitioner of Cupping Therapy
Prerequisites:
ANAT 101 Anatomy
PHYS 101 Physiology
PTH 101 Pathology
3 classes, 6 credit hours
CLASS CODE CLASS TITLE
CUP 101 Introduction to Cupping Therapy
CUP 201 Cupping in Traditional Chinese Medicine
CUP 301 Cupping in Massage Therapy
CUP 401 Cupping Methods 1
CUP 402 Cupping Methods 2
CUP 501 Cupping Practice
6 classes, 12 credit hours
Bachelors Degree in Cupping Therapy
Prerequisites:
ANAT 101 Anatomy
PHYS 101 Physiology
PTH 101 Pathology
HH 101 Holistic Health and Hygiene
PTH 201 Human Pathology and Immunology
GYN 101 Gynecology and Obstetrics
ME 101 Medical Ethics and Medical Jurisprudence
7 classes, 14 credit hours
CLASS CODE CLASS TITLE
CUP 101 Introduction to Cupping Therapy
CUP 201 Cupping in Traditional Chinese Medicine
CUP 301 Cupping in Massage Therapy
CUP 401 Cupping Methods 1
CUP 402 Cupping Methods 2
CUP 501 Cupping Practice
6 classes, 12 credit hours
One year of supervised clinical study
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
CUP 101 Introduction to Cupping Therapy
The use of cupping in Traditional Chinese Medicine and contemporary vacuum therapies is reviewed with an overview of what cupping is, how it works, and the conditions it is best suited to treating. The ancient history of cupping is explored and students learn that cupping was done with animal horns in ancient times and that it was practiced in Egypt and Greece as well as Asia.
CUP 201 Cupping in Traditional Chinese Medicine
Traditional Chinese Medicine incorporates cupping as a basic practice, and students learn the principles of cupping that influence the flow of Chi energy and blood through the body, thus reducing stagnation. The effects of cupping on the skin, joints, muscles, respiratory system, and digestive organs are all reviewed. Students become familiar with the most common cupping methods used in TCM and the best materials for safe and effective cupping therapy.
CUP 301 Cupping in Massage Therapy
Licensed massage therapists may employ a form of cupping in their practice that involves moving a cup over the surface of the body. When incorporated with massage, cupping therapy can facilitate the loosening of soft tissue and lymphatic drainage. The use of cupping in physical therapy is also discussed.
CUP 401 Cupping Methods 1
The strength of cupping from light tonifying to strong cupping (known as draining) is reviewed along with indications that allow students to identify the type of cupping best suited for various conditions and the specific needs of each client. Issues to be aware of regarding a client’s physical health and emotional makeup are discussed, and proper client intake to ensure complete understanding of the client’s needs is emphasized.
CUP 402 Cupping Methods 2
Methods of moving cupping and the use of cupping in acupuncture, called needle cupping, are studied in detail, as well as the steps involved in flash cupping and the safe use of cupping on weakened and childhood clients. A review of herbal cupping and water cupping techniques is presented along with the benefits and contraindications of each method. The technique of full (bleeding) cupping is reviewed with a discussion of its safety and issues involved with complex and potentially dangerous cupping methods. The use of vacuum machine therapy for removing cellulite and its massage benefits for face and back tension is reviewed as part of a discussion of the role of technology in cupping.
CUP 501 Cupping Practice
The laws relating to cupping in various jurisdictions are discussed as well as the integration of cupping into TCM, massage therapy, and day spa and sports medicine practices. Ethical responsibilities, effective communication with clients, awareness of health benefits and contraindications, and the day to day details involved in advertising, drawing clients, and setting up a cupping practice are all thoroughly explored.