What Is Cupping Therapy and How Does It Work?
Cupping therapy is a therapeutic technique that has gained strong attention in modern physical therapy and sports recovery. Although it has ancient roots, today’s cupping therapy is widely used by licensed physical therapists to help reduce pain, improve circulation, and support muscle recovery. When applied correctly, it can be a safe and effective complement to evidence-based rehabilitation care.
What Is Cupping Therapy?
Cupping therapy is a soft tissue treatment that uses specially designed cups placed on the skin to create suction. This suction gently lifts the skin and underlying tissues, increasing blood flow to targeted areas.
Physical therapists often use cupping therapy to address:
Muscle tightness
Myofascial restrictions
Joint stiffness
Sports-related soreness
Unlike massage, which applies pressure downward, cupping therapy works by lifting tissues upward. As a result, it can reach deeper layers of fascia and muscle without excessive pressure.
How Does Cupping Therapy Work?
Cupping therapy functions by drawing the skin upward using negative pressure. This process increases local blood circulation and encourages the movement of fluids within the tissues. As circulation improves, oxygen and nutrients reach the area more efficiently. At the same time, the suction helps loosen tight connective tissue, known as fascia. This can improve mobility and reduce discomfort during movement.
Types of Cupping Therapy
Licensed practitioners typically use one or more of the following methods:
Moving Cupping: In moving cupping, oil is applied to the skin, and the therapist glides the cups along muscle groups. This technique helps improve flexibility and reduce muscle tension.
Flash Cupping: Flash cupping uses repeated, brief suction to stimulate circulation without leaving prolonged marks.
Dry Cupping: Dry cupping involves placing cups on the skin without making incisions. This is the most common form used in physical therapy clinics today.
Modern physical therapy clinics do not use traditional wet cupping, which involves skin incisions.
Benefits of Cupping Therapy
When used as part of a structured treatment plan, cupping therapy may offer several benefits:
Supports pain management
Improves blood flow and tissue hydration
Reduces muscle tightness and stiffness
Promotes faster recovery after exercise or injury
Enhances range of motion
Research suggests that cupping therapy can be especially helpful when combined with therapeutic exercise, manual therapy, and movement-based rehabilitation.
Does Cupping Therapy Leave Marks?
Yes, cupping therapy can leave circular marks on the skin. These marks are not bruises, they are the result from increased blood flow to the surface.
The color and intensity vary by individual and typically fade within a few days to one week. Importantly, the marks are not painful and do not indicate tissue damage.
Is Cupping Therapy Safe?
Cupping therapy is generally safe when performed by trained and licensed healthcare professionals. Physical therapists assess each patient carefully before treatment to ensure it is appropriate.
However, cupping therapy may not be recommended for individuals with:
Certain skin conditions
Bleeding disorders
Active infections
Fragile blood vessels
A professional evaluation ensures both safety and effectiveness.
Who Can Benefit From Cupping Therapy?
Cupping therapy may benefit a wide range of individuals, including:
Athletes with muscle soreness
People with chronic neck or back pain
Patients recovering from orthopedic injuries
Individuals with limited mobility due to muscle tightness
That said, cupping therapy works best as part of a personalized treatment plan rather than a standalone solution.
Cupping Therapy at A Fitness Physical Therapy Clinic
At A Fitness Physical Therapy Clinic, cupping therapy is integrated into comprehensive, evidence-based treatment programs. Licensed physical therapists use modern cupping techniques to support pain relief, improve mobility, and enhance overall recovery.
By combining cupping therapy with corrective exercise, manual therapy, and patient education, A Fitness focuses on long-term results not just short-term relief. Each session is tailored to individual needs, ensuring safe, professional, and effective care.
