Chronic back pain causes physical, emotional and socioeconomic changes and consequently, high use of medicines and health resources. The search of demedicalization leads to an increasing use of integrative and complementary practices. Hijama cupping is one of the recommended modalities in Traditional Chinese Medicine for chronic pain reduction.  The use of Hijama is becoming more popular, and for good reason. Researchers combined results from 611 different studies of which 16 were including qualitative analysis and 10 in quantative analysis. The main aspects that measured are the pain intensity, physical incapacity, and quality of life. There was a significant reduction in pain intensity score through the use of cupping therapy, it also recommend Hijama for those who aren’t finding relief with conventional medical treatments.

This is great news for back pain sufferers, as Hijama done by an experienced Hijama practitioner is considered safe.

According to a study published in 2013 by the Mayo Clinic, back pain is the third most common cause of doctor visits in the United States. And according to American Family Physician, only 25 to 30% of people seek treatment for their back pain. 

Treatments involve cups placed  on specific points on the body by applying vacuum using a pump that are supposed to stimulate and balance the chi or life force of the body. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, chi flows along 20 meridians or energy channels where organs and systems in the body can be stimulated and balanced by cups along these pathways. cups are generally left in for 5 to 15 minutes. The Hijama practitioner will often recommend 3 or 4 sessions every 4 weeks or every 2 days depends on.

.