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There are 4 modules in this course
By the end of this course, you will (1) perform safe and effective fire cupping techniques and (2) understand the physiological and energetic effects behind them. Led by Dr. Constance Bradley, L.Ac., this course blends traditional Chinese Medicine principles with modern safety protocols to help practitioners confidently integrate cupping therapy into practice.
Through detailed video demonstrations, learners master setup, application, and post-treatment care while gaining insight into tissue response, circulation, and detoxification mechanisms. The course stands out for its combination of classical knowledge and contemporary evidence, emphasizing both the energetic and clinical foundations of cupping. Graduates will leave ready to apply fire cupping responsibly for pain management, muscle recovery, and overall wellness.
In this opening module, learners are introduced to the foundations of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) theory as it applies to fire cupping. The module explains the core TCM concepts of Qi, Blood, Jing, body fluids, and the meridian system, and how imbalance or stagnation within these systems contributes to pain and dysfunction. The instructor walks through how cupping fits into the wider family of TCM modalities — alongside acupuncture, gua sha, moxibustion, and herbal therapy — and why cupping is particularly effective for improving circulation, releasing stagnation, and restoring functional harmony within the body. Historical background provides context for cupping’s evolution from an ancient folk remedy to a professional clinical modality. This module emphasizes holistic reasoning: treating the whole person, not just the site of pain. By the end, learners will understand when cupping is appropriate, the theory that guides treatment decisions, and how cupping achieves therapeutic change.
What's included
3 videos3 readings1 assignment1 discussion prompt
Show info about module content
3 videos•Total 16 minutes
Course Introduction•2 minutes
History and Evolution of TCM Fire Cupping•11 minutes
Yin Yang•3 minutes
3 readings•Total 25 minutes
Syllabus•5 minutes
Course Disclaimer — TCM Fire Cupping Foundation•10 minutes
Course Workbook•10 minutes
1 assignment•Total 15 minutes
Practice Assignment•15 minutes
1 discussion prompt•Total 10 minutes
Introduction•10 minutes
TCM Anatomy and Preparing for Clinical Application
Module 2•1 hour to complete
Module details
This module builds the essential anatomical and safety framework for effective fire cupping practice. Learners will explore how Traditional Chinese Medicine views the body through meridians, Qi pathways, and organ system relationships, and how these maps guide where and why cups are placed. The session also covers critical clinical preparation — screening, contraindications, and client communication — to ensure treatments are both safe and therapeutically appropriate.
What's included
5 videos1 assignment
Show info about module content
5 videos•Total 59 minutes
TCM View of the Body•6 minutes
TCM Anatomy•22 minutes
Cupping Mechanism of Action•9 minutes
Safety and Contraindications
•18 minutes
Communication•4 minutes
1 assignment•Total 15 minutes
Module Reflection Quiz•15 minutes
Application
Module 3•1 hour to complete
Module details
In Module 2, the focus shifts from theory to hands-on clinical application. The instructor demonstrates exactly how to prepare, light, and place cups safely and confidently. Learners are shown how to sequence treatment, how much suction to use, and how to adjust cupping intensity based on patient presentation. The module breaks down key technical details: selecting cup size, maintaining flame distance, correct negative pressure, and how to glide cups without breaking the seal. Emphasis is placed on assessment and real-time clinical decision making—identifying where stagnation exists, interpreting tissue response, and modifying technique to achieve therapeutic change. Specific body regions are demonstrated, showing how cupping can be used locally or along a meridian pathway to influence a broader pattern of dysfunction. By the end of this module, learners will be confident in performing static and dynamic cupping techniques safely and effectively in a clinical setting.
What's included
10 videos1 assignment
Show info about module content
10 videos•Total 54 minutes
Cups and Tools
•7 minutes
Introducing the Flame
•5 minutes
Static Cupping
•8 minutes
Moving Sliding Cupping
•8 minutes
Flash Cupping•4 minutes
Needle Cupping
•3 minutes
Moxa Cupping•3 minutes
Wet Cupping•8 minutes
Water Cupping•2 minutes
Tips and Tricks
•4 minutes
1 assignment•Total 15 minutes
Practice Assignment•15 minutes
Course Summary and Exam
Module 4•1 hour to complete
Module details
This final exam is designed to assess your understanding of the key concepts presented throughout the course. Please review all video lessons and written materials before beginning. A passing score of 70% or higher is required to successfully complete the course and earn your CE certificate. You may reference your notes during the exam. Once you pass, your certificate will be available for immediate download.
What's included
1 video1 assignment1 discussion prompt
Show info about module content
1 video•Total 4 minutes
Summary•4 minutes
1 assignment•Total 60 minutes
Reflective Learning Exam•60 minutes
1 discussion prompt•Total 10 minutes
Summary•10 minutes
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Niel Asher Education is a world leader in evidence-based online education for massage therapists, manual therapists, and allied health professionals. Our mission is to empower practitioners worldwide with accessible, high-quality training that bridges traditional bodywork, modern rehabilitation, and integrative health science.
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What will I get if I subscribe to this Specialization?
When you enroll in the course, you get access to all of the courses in the Specialization, and you earn a certificate when you complete the work. Your electronic Certificate will be added to your Accomplishments page - from there, you can print your Certificate or add it to your LinkedIn profile.
Is financial aid available?
Yes. In select learning programs, you can apply for financial aid or a scholarship if you can’t afford the enrollment fee. If fin aid or scholarship is available for your learning program selection, you’ll find a link to apply on the description page.