Cupping

Indications

• Musculoskeletal pain: Back, shoulders, neck tension, arthritis
• Trigger points & fascia release: Especially effective for stubborn knots
• Headaches/migraines: By relaxing shoulder/neck tension
• Respiratory support: Traditionally used for colds, cough, asthma
• Digestive aid: In TCM and Ayurveda, abdominal cupping for sluggish digestion
• Stress relief: Parasympathetic activation (“cupping coma”)
• Scar mobility: Gentle cupping can mobilize fascia around scars

Effects

• Improved Circulation: Cupping is thought to increase blood flow to the treated areas, which may reduce pain, inflammation, and muscle tension.
• Pain Relief: Cupping may stimulate the release of endorphins, natural pain relievers, and improve circulation, leading to pain reduction.
• Detoxification: Cupping is believed to draw out toxins and impurities from the body through the skin.
• Improved Digestion: Cupping on the abdomen may stimulate the digestive system and relieve symptoms of bloating and indigestion.
• Muscle Relaxation: Cupping can help to relax tight muscles and improve flexibility.
• Reduced Stress and Anxiety: Cupping may promote relaxation and reduce stress hormones.
• Other Potential Benefits: Some proponents of cupping claim that it can also improve skin conditions, boost the immune system, and regulate metabolism.

Precautions

• Chronic disease: heart disease, peripheral vascular disease, autoimmune disease, skin conditions (eczema, psoriasis), anemia (avoid blood cupping)
• Blood thinners: anti-coagulant medications or antiplatelet therapy
• Skin issues: Burns, sunburn, open wounds, keloid scars
• Pregnancy: avoid abdomen/low back, especially in the 1st trimester
• Dehydration: cups move fluids — be sure to hydrate
• Caution: around joints, bruises, sprains, bony areas, and fresh injuries.
• Avoid: arteries (see chart), infected tissue
• General rule: Don’t cup where you wouldn’t want a hickey.

Contraindications

• Undiagnosed or suspicious lumps
• Pacemakers
• Skin infections – active erysipelas or abscess
• Stroke – unstable or evolving
• Organ failure – heart, renal or hepatic
• Bleeding disorders (hemophilia) or blood thinners (warfarin, heparin)
• Severe cardiac disease or recent stroke/heart attack
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), Thrombophlebitis, or vascular compromise
• Cancer treatment (chemo, radiation) unless cleared by medical provider
• Fragile tissue: Elderly skin, varicose veins, thin connective tissue

Types of cups

• Glass: Autoclavable, chemical-resistant. Long-lasting.
• Plastic Pump Cups: Cannot autoclave; disinfect only. Over time, microcracks may harbor bacteria. Replace periodically.
• Silicone: Wash with soap, rinse, dry. Disinfect with medical wipes/hydrogen peroxide. Don’t leave soaking in bleach (they’ll degrade faster).

General Cleaning Guidelines

• Non-blood contact (dry cupping, intact skin):
  • Low to intermediate level disinfection
  • Wash with warm water and soap.
  • Rinse thoroughly and air-dry.
  • Sanitize with hospital-grade disinfectant wipes; or soak in 3% Hydrogen Peroxide or 1:50 bleach solution.
• Blood contact (wet cupping, scarification, broken skin):
  • Treat as biohazard, use gloves
  • High-level disinfection
  • Wash with soap and water
  • Immerse in an EPA-approved disinfectant for bloodborne pathogens (1:10 of 5.25% sodium hypochlorite/bleach, 7.5% Hydrogen peroxide, 2% Glutaraldehyde…)
  • Alternatively: sterilize with autoclave (glass/metal only).

Recommended Cups:

Quality may change. Please check reviews.

• Cupping Warehouse
  • The Deep Pro line is great if you have strong hands and don’t mind harder silicone. Good for gliding techniques.
  • Their pump cups are also well-reviewed. It’s easier to create strong suction, but these are more breakable and harder to clean than the silicone. They are not made for gliding techniques.
• Lure
  • The Performance Zen cups create less suction, but may be easier to use for self-cupping and gliding techniques.
• Fire Cups require additional training, skill, and safety precautions.