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A catchy cupping slogan can sound like a solution before anyone has looked at the problem. Here is how to turn it into a grounded plan.

Catchy lines, missing details

Advertising sometimes sums cupping up in a punchy phrase that makes it sound like the answer before anyone has looked at what is wrong. A genuinely informative explanation has to tell the methods apart, admit what is unknown and welcome questions. However sure a headline sounds, it cannot predict how a treatment will go for you.

Agreeing on a purpose

If cupping with Dr Christine Shen, Acupuncturist, in Lane Cove is on your mind, agree together on:

• what you hope cupping might help with;
• how you will judge your response;
• which cups and technique will be used, whether stationary, sliding, glass or silicone.

If unfamiliar terms come up, ask for them to be explained. Words like flash cupping or moving cups describe very different experiences, and it is perfectly reasonable to want to know which one you are agreeing to.

Explain it in your own words

A simple test of a good plan is whether you could describe it to a friend afterwards. If you can say why cupping is being suggested, what will happen and how you will both judge whether to continue, the explanation has done its job. Be wary of any promise that an illness will simply leave your body.

Follow-up that reflects your goals

Jot down a daily task that is currently tricky so it can anchor your next conversation. Add how the session felt and how fast the marks faded. Those circles on the skin are a small part of the picture, and continuing should rest on your aim, how things went and what else you could try. If anything unexpected happens, your GP can be part of the discussion.

Questions over catchphrases

Next time a cupping slogan catches your eye, write it down and bring it with you. Unpacking it with Christine at the Lane Cove clinic can be a surprisingly useful way to start a grounded conversation.