Cupping Therapy

What it is

Understanding cupping therapy

Cupping is often described as deep tissue work in reverse. Rather than pushing into the muscle, the cups draw skin and tissue up, separating the layers underneath.

That decompression is useful for long-standing tension and for areas where direct pressure is uncomfortable. It leaves circular marks for a few days, which are not bruises in the usual sense.

How it works

What the suction actually does

A pump or heat draws the skin and tissue up into the cup, which lifts and separates the soft tissue layers underneath.

Lift and separate the layers. Rather than compressing tissue downward, the suction elevates and stratifies the soft tissue layers, which is a different mechanical effect from any hands-on pressure.

Support circulation and drainage. The clinic uses it to increase blood supply to the treated area and to support lymphatic drainage through it.

Release the myofascial restriction. The intended result is myofascial release through muscle tension and knots, particularly in areas that have not responded to direct pressure.

What it helps

What cupping is used for here

The presentations the clinic names for this therapy on their own site.

• Chronic and sudden neck or back pain
• Repetitive strain injuries and tendonitis
• Sports injuries and return to performance
• Joint ache in knees, hips and shoulders
• Fibromyalgia and myofascial pain syndrome
• Chronic muscle soreness that has not cleared

Common questions

Cupping Therapy FAQs