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.