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Dry and wet cupping differ in more than name. Skin-breaking techniques carry extra steps that deserve a separate explanation and consent.

More than a choice of words

Dry cupping and wet cupping are sometimes mentioned as if one were simply a variation of the other. The difference is significant. Dry cupping relies on suction alone, with no intention of opening the skin. Wet cupping adds small punctures or cuts, which means exposure to blood and a different set of risks.

Dr Christine Shen, Acupuncturist, believes these should be treated as separate decisions, each with its own explanation and consent.

Questions for skin-breaking techniques

If a procedure that breaks the skin is being discussed, ask about:

• infection-control steps and how equipment is handled
• the risk of bleeding and bruising
• aftercare for the treated area
• what other options exist

Check with Christine which procedure she is actually proposing, rather than assuming wet cupping is part of any session described as cupping. The extra steps need a proper explanation, and being familiar with dry cupping is not enough to understand them.

Following up on your goal

Choose a daily activity or symptom before treatment that you can look back on at your next visit. Then talk through that activity, your comfort and how the skin recovered. Marks tell only part of the story, and whether to carry on should reflect your original aim, how you responded and the alternatives.

Tell Christine about any blood-thinning medicine, diabetes or immune condition, as these are especially relevant when skin is broken.

Understanding your options in Lane Cove

Consent for one kind of cupping never automatically covers the other, and you can say no to any step at any time, even after a session has begun. Asking for written aftercare notes is also reasonable.

If you are unsure which type of cupping you have been reading about, ask. Christine can explain both approaches at the Lane Cove clinic, clarify what she offers and help you decide what, if anything, suits your situation.