Pricking and cupping is a method that combines blood-letting therapy with cupping therapy, and it is also one of the common comprehensive cupping methods. Tools used for blood-letting include three-edged needles, dermal needles, small eyebrow knives, thick filiform needles, ceramic pieces, needling rollers, etc. Among these, three-edged needles and dermal needles are the most commonly used. Depending on the therapeutic needs, there are several specific clinical techniques as follows:

1. Blood-letting with retained cupping:

This method is often used for deeper disease locations and more localized lesions. It typically involves quickly pricking the area several times or a dozen times with a three-edged needle, followed immediately by fire-insertion cupping or cotton-burning cupping over the area, aiming for a strong suction. Retained cupping lasts about 15 to 20 minutes. After removing the cup, use a sterilized cotton ball to clean the bloodstains, and the blood clots inside the cup should also be cleaned thoroughly.

2. Blood-letting with multiple cupping:

This method is often used for more superficial lesions, larger areas, and more stubborn conditions. It typically involves tapping with a dermal needle at a moderate intensity, stopping when slight bleeding is observed. Then, use the flash cupping method to apply several cups within the lesion area. Retained cupping lasts 15 to 20 minutes.

3. Blood-letting with sliding cupping:

This method is suitable for large lesion areas, superficial disease locations, and short disease courses. It also often involves tapping with a dermal needle. The technique involves first performing grade I tapping with a dermal needle within the cupping area until the local area becomes slightly red. Then, apply lubricant to the rim of the cup and the acupoint area before performing sliding cupping.