Stimulation therapy
Stimulation therapies are some of the oldest and most commonly used traditional techniques. They include cupping, the Baunscheidt method, cantharides plasters and Vichy showers.
In cupping, the therapist creates suction in glass cups of various sizes. The cups are then applied to the part of the body being treated. The exact spots are identified by physical diagnosis (palpation); they are usually hardened areas of the tissues under the skin. This treatment is also frequently used to treat the reflex zones of internal organs which are known to be linked to the surface of the body. Cupping improves circulation and lymph flow and relieves cramped muscles.
The Baunscheidt method is basically similar to cupping, but it stimulates the subcutaneous tissue more powerfully. The surface of the skin is briefly stimulated, and then an oil that stimulates the circulation is applied. A healing reaction is generated even in deeper parts of the body through the nerve structures (reflex pathways), in much the same way as with cupping.
Cantharides plasters are extremely useful for treating acute and chronic localized painful conditions (arthritis and also acute flares of arthritis). They often bring about an impressive degree of relief from the pain associated with swollen joints and tissues within one day. A special paste is applied to the area of the body being treated, and within a few hours a blister forms on the skin. This contains lymph, which is then drained. A sterile dressing is applied to the area, and the skin heals quickly and without complications.
The Vichy shower is a modern version of the traditional Kneipp therapies. The patient lies in a comfortable position, and mobile sprays are used to apply a pleasantly warm shower of water to the trunk, arms, abdomen and legs for 20 minutes. Two brief phases of cold stimulation during this therapy promote blood flow in the skin and improve the function of the autonomic nervous system.
