I can't believe that nobody posting here has heard of 'cupping'!
I KNOW it works for respiratory problems. I had it done the first time 4 years ago, after a persistant cough would not respond to antibiotics, inhalers, and some other pretty strong 'western' treatment. I was going to an accupuncture-ist for other issues and she suggested it. It worked on the first try.
It does seem a bit 'barbaric', small shallow glass cups are 'barely' wiped with rubbing alcohol, and then lit on fire. The fire is immediately extinguished and the cup pressed down on the back. The suction is created by the just-extinguished flame. It burns, but not from the heat, from the strong focused suction. They are left on for around 10 minutes and then pryed off. She then rubbed the back with tiger balm.
Then, 4 years later I got the same horrible cough and searched high and low for someone who knew how to do it. I mean, who knew how to do it without burning me! but also where to place the cups.
I ended up again at a traditional Dr. from Laos who also did eastern medicine. Again, it worked on the first try.
Cupping was very common in Europe and also in N. Africa.
Besides the bruises it leaves it has no side effects.
I don't care what anyone says, it works.