Cupping Therapy.

What it is

Cupping places glass, silicone or plastic cups on the skin and creates suction, with heat (fire cupping) or a pump. The suction lifts skin, fascia and muscle and draws blood into the area, which can loosen tight spots. Cups may stay in place or glide across oiled skin. It has roots in traditional Chinese, Middle Eastern and other folk medicine.

Athletes have made its round marks familiar. People use cupping for muscle tension, stiffness, neck and back pain, recovery and relaxation. The marks can look dramatic, but the treatment itself is usually not painful.

What happens at a visit

1. A talk about where you feel pain or tension and your goals.
2. Oil or lotion on the treatment area.
3. Cups placed to create suction on muscles and fascia.
4. Cups left in place for 5 to 15 minutes, or glided across the skin.
5. A strong pulling or pressure feeling that usually isn't painful.
6. Round marks that fade over 3 to 7 days.

Who it is for

• Athletes with muscle tension or recovering from injury
• People with ongoing back, neck or shoulder pain
• People with tightness that massage alone hasn't released
• People who want deep tissue work without heavy pressure
• Anyone drawn to traditional bodywork

Evidence and safety

Studies suggest cupping can ease musculoskeletal pain, especially chronic neck and back pain, and that it increases local blood flow, though many trials are small. With a trained practitioner it is very safe. The marks are the main side effect and fade within about a week; blistering is rare. Avoid it on broken or irritated skin, and check with a clinician first if you are pregnant, take blood thinners or bruise easily.

How Gabriel helps

Cupping Therapy near you

Cities where Gabriel's directory has three or more practices that offer it. Anywhere else, Gabriel searches for you.