In this episode, Dr. Greg Jones talks with Dr. Tom Ingengno, a Doctor of Acupuncture, author of The Cupping Book, and founder of Charm City Integrative Health. Together, they explore the surprising science behind cupping therapy, from its ancient roots to how it’s finding a place in modern integrative medicine.
Dr. Tom shares how a family memory led him from pre-med to acupuncture, the evolution of cupping practices across cultures, and the science that supports its benefits for circulation, inflammation, and even anxiety. They also discuss how techniques like red light therapy, cryotherapy, and acupuncture can be “stacked” for deeper healing.
Whether you’re a skeptic, a curious wellness enthusiast, or a practitioner, this episode breaks down the myths and explains why cupping isn’t just a trend, it’s a time-tested therapy supported by research and results.
📌 Dr. Tom Ingegno
Dr. Tom Ingegno, DACM is a nationally recognized Doctor of Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine with a reputation for blending ancient healing with modern innovation. With over 20 years of clinical experience, he founded Charm City Integrative Health in Baltimore. In this one-of-a-kind clinic, acupuncture meets cryotherapy, red light therapy, and cutting-edge wellness tools. Known for his relatable style and sharp insights, Dr. Tom has been featured in over 100 podcasts, interviews, and wellness publications. Whether he’s helping patients navigate burnout or exploring the science behind Eastern medicine, Dr. Tom is passionate about making holistic care accessible, effective, and rooted in real results.
🔗 Learn more about Dr. Tom Ingegno
Website: Http://charmcityintegrative.com
Instagram: www.instagram.com/acuguy
Podcast: https://irreverenthealth.com
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/c/CharmCityIntegrativeHealthBaltimore
🔬 Timestamps
Introduction and Dr. Tom’s early inspiration in healthcare (00:00 – 02:41)
How a memory of his grandfather sparked a shift from pre-med to acupuncture (02:41 – 07:23)
The evolution of acupuncture from “woo woo” to evidence-based medicine (07:23 – 09:37)
Understanding qi and how modern science tries to measure energy flow (09:37 – 14:25)
The real science behind cupping — circulation, fascia, and repair (14:25 – 16:46)
Myths about cupping marks and what they really mean (16:46 – 19:31)
The global history of cupping: from ancient Egypt to modern clinics (19:31 – 26:30)
How cupping triggers the body’s “rest and digest” state (26:30 – 32:38)
Safety considerations and when not to use cupping (32:38 – 38:28)
DIY cupping and the safest tools to use at home (38:28 – 49:47)
How acupuncture and cupping complement each other (49:47 – 51:09)
Dr. Tom’s “stacked” therapies: red light, cryotherapy, salt therapy, and more (51:09 – 56:44)
The comeback of ancient medicine in modern science (56:44 – 01:01:16)
Where to Find Dr. Tom and Closing Remarks (01:01:16 – 01:04:19)
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Disclaimer: The information shared on The Dr. Jones Optimization Podcast and its associated YouTube channel is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Listening to this podcast or viewing its content does not create a doctor–patient relationship, and nothing shared should be interpreted as individualized medical guidance. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making changes to your health regimen or managing a medical condition. The opinions expressed by Dr. Jones and his guests are their own and do not reflect official medical advice or recommendations
