Turkish Hospitals Embrace Ancient Healing Techniques for Pain Relief

In a notable shift towards integrating traditional medicine, Turkish hospitals are increasingly embracing ancient healing methods such as cupping and leech therapy. At the Medicana International Hospital in Istanbul, Dr. Erdal Dilekci performs wet cupping on patients, combining centuries-old practices with modern medical oversight. On this occasion, 26-year-old nurse Furkan Ali Sayan lies calmly as Dr. Dilekci makes small incisions on his back before placing suction cups to draw out toxins and alleviate pain.

This growing trend reflects a broader acceptance of traditional treatments within Turkey’s medical framework. Known locally as hacamat, wet cupping is now offered in 66 of Turkey’s 81 provinces, according to the Turkish Ministry of Health. The shift follows legislative changes in 2014 that allowed certified medical doctors to perform these therapies in hospitals, moving them away from informal settings where higher infection risks are prevalent.

Dr. Dilekci, a specialist in physical medicine and rehabilitation, notes that his practice includes around 15 different methods, such as ozone therapy, prolotherapy, and acupuncture. He emphasizes that these treatments complement, rather than replace, modern medicine. Patients often seek relief for chronic conditions, including fibromyalgia, migraines, and joint pain, and treatments are tailored to individual needs based on their health history and previous responses.

Cupping therapy is particularly interesting as it is timed with lunar cycles to enhance its effectiveness. Dr. Dilekci explains, “We prefer the week after the full moon. Scientific studies have shown the moon’s gravitational pull can support its effectiveness.” This approach draws patients like Sayan, who sought cupping therapy to address pain related to long working hours. He appreciated the safety of receiving treatment in a hospital setting, though he found the pre-treatment dietary restrictions—avoiding meat, dairy, and eggs for three days—challenging.

Historically, such treatments were performed by non-medical practitioners. However, the Turkish government has implemented regulations and training programs to ensure that only certified doctors and dentists apply these procedures. This oversight helps mitigate the risks of infection and mishaps associated with unauthorized practitioners.

At the same Istanbul hospital, Dr. Dilekci also treats another patient suffering from circulation problems using leech therapy. The black leeches, sourced from sterile farms, are applied to the patient’s feet. They release enzymes like hirudin, which acts as a natural anticoagulant, improving blood flow and facilitating tissue repair. According to Dr. Dilekci, these leeches are disposed of after each treatment to maintain hygiene standards.

The integration of these traditional therapies has attracted patients from Europe, the Middle East, and Central Asia. The World Health Organization (WHO) recognizes the importance of traditional, complementary, and integrative medicine in promoting health and well-being. The organization supports the safe and effective integration of these practices into national health systems, emphasizing their potential to improve health outcomes when aligned with the latest scientific evidence.

As Turkish hospitals continue to embrace these ancient healing methods, the blend of traditional and modern medicine demonstrates a commitment to patient safety and holistic care. This evolution highlights a growing recognition of the value that diverse medical practices can bring to contemporary healthcare.