So, Michael Phelps climbs out of the pool after yet another amazing swimming performance and what do we all talk about?
Those purple circles! Alien abduction marks? “Crop circles” made of flesh? Remnants of an amorous evening?
Attack of a rogue vacuum cleaner?
None of the above!
Those temporary tattoos are the result of an ancient therapy called “cupping.”
.@joelkclive is checking out the craze of "cupping" @BlueValleyPT in @opcares pic.twitter.com/VO7FF9irsU
— TJH (@THellhake) August 16, 2016
It has been used worldwide, particularly in Asia, for centuries.
According to Sandra Wilkes, Doctor of Oriental Medicine at Blue Valley Physical Therapy, this decompression therapy increases blood flow to the localized area, removes metabolic waste and detoxifies tissues.
There is no damage to those tissues or residual discomfort.
In fact, speaking first hand or, rather, first arm, I can tell you that this is not a painful procedure; just a gentle sucking sensation.
Why are Michael Phelps and other athletes covered in red spots? It's called cupping. https://t.co/qPTVXgeNfw pic.twitter.com/xN5tlfZmCf
— CNN (@CNN) August 15, 2016
Sandra has had folks find relief from cupping for fibromyalgia, arthritis, stress, strain and some types of headaches.
There are several different types of cupping including fire cupping using glass cups and hand pump cupping.
However, this is not something you should try by yourself or with friends at home.
You really need a person like Sandra to make it a safe and effective session.
Who knows? Your cup may runneth over with relief!
.@BlueValleyPT Dr. Wilkes shows @joelkclive the "cupping" process pic.twitter.com/aAneoz90qP
— TJH (@THellhake) August 16, 2016
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Joel Nichols can be reached at joel.nichols@kclive.tv.
