Is an ancient alternative medicine technique that uses suction to pull the skin, fascia, and superficial muscle layers upward. It is commonly used today to relieve muscle tension, manage pain, and improve local blood circulation.
How It Works
Unlike traditional massage therapy, which applies downward pressure to the muscles, cupping uses negative pressure to lift the tissue. A trained provider places specialized cups made of glass, plastic, bamboo, or silicone onto the skin (most commonly on the back, shoulders, or legs). The vacuum suction is created using either a modern mechanical pump or the traditional method of heating the air inside the cup with fire before application. The suction expands the blood vessels, leaving distinctive circular, bruise-like marks that typically fade within a few days to a week.
Uses
Can be useful to manage musculoskeletal pain, including:
- Lower back and neck pain
- Muscle soreness and athletic recovery
- Stiffness and headaches