The practice of cupping has a rich and varied history, examples of which can be seen in many cultures around the world. Cupping is frequently used in conjunction with acupuncture to treat many types of pain.
Cups are applied to the body with suction and can be made from a variety of substances, including glass, plastic, bamboo, or silicon. This suction increases circulation by mechanically drawing more blood to the area.
Cupping also releases muscle knots and adhesions by pulling up the soft tissue and allowing it to separate. It can be thought of like a deep tissue massage but in reverse! Cupping commonly leaves bruises, which are caused by a weakening of the microvasculature in the surface layers of our skin which rupture when the cup is applied. These bruises commonly disappear within 5-7 days, leaving the circulation stronger as a result.