Q: Dear Dr. Mao,
I was told that to lose weight with acupuncture, I must have cupping done. Is that harmful?
A: It is true that acupuncture might help in weight management and appetite control. Cupping, like acupuncture, is a modality used by a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) practitioner to assist in delivering a treatment. Cupping is not dangerous, depending on use and proficiency. Depending on the diagnosis your physician has made, it may be used in conjunction with acupuncture and herbs.
Remember to make sure you seek a licensed acupuncturist and not self-administer these treatments.
