Cupping therapy is a time-tested technique rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), often used alongside massage therapy, acupuncture, and dry needling. This ancient healing method has been practiced across various cultures, including Europe, Latin America, the Middle East, and Asia.
What Is Cupping Therapy?
Cupping involves placing special cups on the skin to create suction, typically in areas experiencing pain, tension, or restricted movement. This gentle vacuum effect draws blood to the surface, encouraging circulation and stimulating the body’s natural healing response.
During a cupping session, the targeted area becomes saturated with oxygen-rich blood, while stagnant blood and toxins are pulled toward the surface. Though circular marks may appear—ranging in color from red to deep purple the process is generally painless and the marks fade within a few hours to up to 20 days, depending on the intensity of the treatment and the individual’s condition.
How Does Cupping Work?
Cupping therapy works by:
- Increasing local blood flow
- Promoting muscle and fascial relaxation
- Enhancing lymphatic drainage
- Encouraging cellular repair and regeneration
This makes it an effective therapy for those dealing with chronic pain, sports injuries, tight muscles, or limited joint mobility.
Post-Treatment Care & Precautions
After your cupping therapy session, it’s important to take the following precautions for optimal healing:
Avoid exercise, steam rooms, saunas, sun exposure, and hot showers for at least 24 hours, keep the treated area covered and protected from wind and cold, stay well-hydrated to assist your body in flushing out toxins.
Benefits
- Releases scar tissue and fascial adhesions
- Reduces muscle tension and stiffness
- Relieves pain in the back, neck, shoulders, and joints
- Improves circulation and lymphatic flow
- Enhances joint mobility
- Speeds up recovery after injury by reducing swelling and inflammation.
Please note this treatment is not available for mobile service.
This treatment is offered at the Camberwell studio and the Marylebone clinic only. Prices may vary depending on location. For more info click here.