Effectiveness of Blood Cupping Therapy for Swelling Due to Internal Bleeding

In recent discussions, experts have expressed skepticism about the utility of blood cupping therapy in addressing swelling caused by internal bleeding. This article explores the rationale behind these opinions and provides a comprehensive examination of the topic.

Understanding Internal Bleeding and Hematomas

Internal bleeding typically occurs in areas deeply within the body, such as the brain, liver, or spleen. This type of bleeding forms a hematoma, a localized collection of blood outside of a blood vessel, which is often encapsulated and complex. Unlike surface-level bruising, internal bleeding is neither easily accessible nor effectively addressed by superficial therapies such as blood cupping.

The body's natural response to internal bleeding involves the process of hemolysis, where red blood cells break down and are removed by specific immune cells called macrophages. These cells play a crucial role in the breakdown and clearance of blood components. This means that any fatty or liquid content from the hematoma is already gone, and what remains is a solid blood clot. Blood cupping therapy, which relies on creating local suction to draw and retain blood on the surface of the skin, is unlikely to have a significant effect on a hematoma caused by internal bleeding.

The Biological Mechanisms

Curiously, one could argue that the superficial application of cupping might seem appealing as a solution to a deeper problem. However, the reality is more complex. During blood cupping, the suction effect causes local blood vessel rupture, leading to bruising. This process is known as hematoma resorption. The process of resolving a hematoma requires an intact vascular bed to facilitate the movement of blood components. Moreover, the contents of a hematoma are unlikely to move through tissue planes without causing further damage or bleeding.

Macrophages play a vital role in the breakdown and clearance of hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells responsible for oxygen transportation. The heme portion of hemoglobin is converted into bilirubin, which is excreted via the bile system. This natural process is much more effective and controlled than what can be achieved through external attempts such as cupping.

Professional Perspectives

Healthcare professionals suggest more direct methods for addressing hematomas caused by internal bleeding. These include:

Aspiration: Using a large bore angiocath (a type of catheter with a large diameter) to suction out the blood from the hematoma. Lancet Extraction: Employing a number 11 scalpel point to extract the blood directly. Compression: Placing a pressure dressing over the hematoma post-extraction to prevent further bleeding.

These methods, while requiring professional expertise, are designed to directly address the issue at hand by removing the blood clot and promoting proper healing.

Conclusion

While blood cupping may have some therapeutic benefits in various contexts, its application is limited when dealing with swelling caused by internal bleeding. The natural processes of the body, including the role of macrophages in breaking down and clearing hemoglobin, outshine any potential benefits of cupping for this specific condition. If immediate relief or removal of a hematoma is necessary, professional medical intervention is the most effective and safest course of action.