Cupping

Static Cupping

Cups are placed on the main body of the muscle left for 5-10 minutes.

This draws fluid (blood and lymph) to the area, creating an inflammatory response. It may separate layers of skin and fascia and stretch the underlying tissue.

Sliding cupping

The cups are moved over the surface of a larger muscle group maintaining suction.

This can mobilise tissues, particularly the fascia, over a larger area. It enhances the effects of a traditional massage stroke using decompression instead of compression.

Active movement

Cups are placed on a targeted muscle. The patient is then actively guided to perform a full range of motion, stretching the tissue under the fixed cup.

This provides a focused deep stretch and promotes circulation to enhance recovery.

Flash cupping

Cups are applied with a larger amount of suction and then immediately removed. The process is repeated several times.

This can increase circulation without prolonged tissue distention getting the benefits of cupping by feeling fresher the next day.

Benefits of cupping

Reduces Pain: Cupping is most commonly used to ease muscle and joint pain, such as in the neck, back, or knees. The suction may help by blocking pain signals to the brain and promoting the release of natural pain-killing chemicals in the body.
(Wang, 2023)
Increases Blood Flow: The suction pulls the skin and the layer beneath it, which draws blood to the area. This boosted circulation helps bring oxygen and nutrients to sore muscles and tissues, promoting healing and reducing stiffness.
(Wang, Cai, Lin, Li, 2016)
Eases Muscle Tension: By lifting and stretching the muscle and connective tissue (fascia), cupping can help release deep knots and tightness that often cause discomfort, similar to a deep-tissue massage but using pulling instead of pushing pressure.

(Li, 2022)

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