Who is not suitable for cupping?

Cupping therapy, a traditional treatment method widely used in Asian countries, particularly in traditional Chinese medicine, has been subject to various systematic reviews to assess its effectiveness and safety. While cupping therapy is beneficial for certain conditions, there are specific patient groups and situations where it may not be suitable or could pose potential risks. According to the search results and clinical evidence, the following patients or conditions are not suitable for cupping therapy:

• 1. Patients with bleeding tendencies: Conditions such as thrombocytopenia, leukemia, and allergic purpura are contraindicated for cupping therapy due to the risk of exacerbating bleeding.
• 2. New injury fractures, scars, and areas with malignant tumors: These areas should not be subjected to cupping therapy as it may worsen the condition or interfere with healing.
• 3. Women during menstruation and pregnancy: The lower abdomen should be avoided during menstruation, and both the lower abdomen and lumbar sacral area should be avoided during pregnancy to prevent complications such as premature labor.
• 4. Individuals with severe heart, kidney, or liver diseases: These patients are generally not suitable for cupping therapy due to the potential risks associated with their underlying conditions.
• 5. Skin allergies, injuries, or ulcers: Cupping therapy should not be applied to areas with skin allergies, injuries, or ulcers to prevent infection or worsening of the skin condition.
• 6. Patients with infectious diseases: Cupping therapy is not recommended for patients with active infectious diseases due to the potential risk of spreading the infection.
• 7. Individuals with certain respiratory conditions: Patients with respiratory conditions such as asthma or other lung diseases may need to avoid cupping therapy, especially on the chest area, to prevent complications.
• 8. Patients with high fever or convulsions: Cupping therapy is not suitable for patients experiencing high fever or convulsions as it may not be effective or could pose additional risks.
• 9. Intake of anticoagulant medications: Patients who are on anticoagulant therapy should avoid cupping therapy due to the risk of excessive bleeding.
• 10. Older adults and those in weak physical conditions: Cupping therapy may be too strenuous or risky for individuals who are elderly or have weakened physical conditions.

It’s important to note that while cupping therapy has been shown to be effective for certain conditions such as pain management, acne, and facial paralysis, it should only be performed by trained and experienced practitioners to ensure safety and effectiveness. Patients with the conditions or situations listed above should consult with a healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate treatment options.

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