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Trustworthy cupping information describes methods, risks and uncertainty as well as benefits. Use it to frame questions about your own care.

Signs of balanced information

A worthwhile article or leaflet about cupping does more than list possible benefits. It explains that there are different methods, admits where knowledge is uncertain and spells out when cupping may not be suitable, for example over broken skin or for people with certain bleeding problems. Information about how cupping is regulated or practised overseas should not be assumed to reflect care in Australia.

Dr Christine Shen, Acupuncturist, encourages people to look for that kind of balance and to be cautious of sources that sound too good to be true.

Bringing it back to your appointment

Whatever you have read, the useful conversation is about the specific treatment proposed for you. Three questions cover a lot of ground. Which result can I reasonably hope for? What could go wrong? How will we tell whether it is helping?

A long list of conditions that cupping is said to help does not show that one procedure will help everyone with those symptoms. Your own health, history and preferences remain central.

Choosing a measure for follow-up

Before treatment begins, identify an everyday activity or symptom you would like to revisit next time. When you return, talk about that along with comfort and how your skin healed. Marks are just one observation, and the choice to continue should go back to your purpose, your response and the alternatives you could consider.

Asking your GP for their view can also be helpful if you have ongoing medical conditions or take several medicines.

Sorting information in Lane Cove

Look out for who wrote the material, whether it names risks plainly and whether it refers to local practice.

If you have collected articles about cupping and are unsure which to trust, bring a couple to your appointment. Christine can help you separate balanced information from marketing at the Lane Cove clinic and explain how she would approach your situation.