What is Cupping Therapy?

Massage Cupping is the combination of massage movements and negative pressure with the use of a suction device on the skin. A cup is positioned at the area to be treated and, depending on the type of cups being used; a vacuum is created within the cup to draw the skin and underlying tissue into the cup. The produced vacuum creates a suction effect that increases blood and lymphatic circulation systemically and to the local area, relaxes muscle tissue and support, draws stagnation, and pathogenic factors out of the body and releases a myriad of pain causing factors.

The intended suction can range from light to heavy. This, along with the movements performed and areas treated by the therapist will produce stimulating (toning) or sedating (draining) effects. It is very important that therapists be able to effectively assess the condition (physical, mental and emotional) of their clients, before the procedure, so they employ the proper application of the cups to produce the desired outcome.

What are the marks caused by cupping?

The bruising you may notice is not a bruise like tissue damage, but more of dead blood coming to the surface. The more you cup that area the lighter and healthier it becomes. If there is just redness, it's also creating blood flow in the area to facilitate healing.

Types of Cups I use:

Glass Fire Cups:

Kangzhu Biomagnetic Cups:

Baguanfa™ Silicone Cups:

Contraindications for Cupping:

Cupping is contraindicated in cases of severe diseases, i.e. cardiac failure, renal failure, ascites due to hepato-cirrhosis and severe edema, as well as hemorrhagic diseases such as allergic purpura, hemophilia and leukemia, and clients with dermatosis, destruction of skin, or allergic dermatitis.
Cupping should not be applied on the portion where hernia exists or has occurred in the past.
Broken bones, dislocations, hernias, slipped discs, organ failure, and those undergoing cancer therapy are contraindicated for Cupping.
Cupping should not be performed on affected areas during the acute stages of Psoriasis, Eczema or Rosacea.
Cupping should not be applied on effected areas during outbreaks of Urticaria (Hives), Herpes or Shingles.
Cupping is contraindicated for those with liver or kidney functional illness, Cardiopathy, 3D Varicosities or over recent surgical incisions.

During pregnancy:

Unless the mother has been receiving ongoing Cupping prior to their pregnancy – wait until the 2nd trimester.
Women who have not received Cupping and begin during breast feeding should express several days before the treatment and should wait a few days post treatment to return to breast feeding.