Cupping therapy is an ancient form of alternative medicine in which a therapist puts special cups on your skin for a few minutes to create suction. People get it for many purposes, including to help with pain, inflammation, blood flow, relaxation and well-being, and as a type of deep-tissue massage. Cupping has been around for thousands of years and is part of traditional Chinese medicine. The earliest recorded use of cupping therapy dates back to the fourth century BCE.

How does cupping work?

The suction created by the cups helps to loosen muscles, encourages blood flow, and sedates the nervous system. Cupping is believed to expel wind, clear heat, and relieve pain.

What are the benefits of cupping therapy?

Cupping therapy is said to offer a host of benefits, including:

• Reducing inflammation
• Relieving pain
• Improving blood flow
• Reducing stress and anxiety
• Promoting relaxation
• Aiding in digestion
• Treating respiratory conditions

What should I expect during a cupping therapy session?

Cupping therapy is usually performed with fire cups, which are made of glass. The therapist will heat up the cup and then place it on your skin. The suction from the cup will pull your skin and underlying tissue into the cup.

Cupping therapy can also be performed with suction cups, which are made of silicone or plastic. The therapist will place the cup on your skin and then use a pump to create suction.

The cups are usually left in place for five to 15 minutes, you may experience a cramping sensation as the cups pull on your skin. After the cups are removed, you may see circular marks on your skin. These marks are not bruises, they’re caused by the suction of the cups and are a normal part of cupping therapy, and they usually disappear within a few days.