Classification of Cupping Method

There are lots kinds of methods of cupping. According to practice method, cupping can be divided into three major types as follows:
1. Cupping classification according to air exhaust
Fire cupping (dry cup): this method excludes the air in cups by fire.
Water cupping: this method excludes the air in cups by the heating power of vapor.
Air exhaust cupping: this method excludes the air in cups by using pin-pipes.
Pressurization cupping: this method excludes the air in cups by pressing the plastic balls.

2. Cupping classification according to forms applied
Single-cup cupping: this method only uses one cup.
Poly-cupping: this method uses more than one cup.
Twinkling cupping: this method takes cup off immediately after suck, repeat it for many times.
Stationary cupping: this method stays cup for a while after sucking.
Moving cupping: this method repeats to pull and push the cup on skin after the sucking.

3. Cupping classification according to comprehensive usage
Herbal cupping: this method uses liquid medicine to decoct bamboo cup before cupping or to hoard some liquid medicine and then cupping.
Needle jar: this method adopts cupping during or after the acupuncture process.
Venesection: this method uses three-edged needles or dermal needles to sting blood and then cupping.