Dry cupping, a therapy that dates back thousands of years, has surged in popularity in recent years—thanks in part to elite athletes and wellness advocates touting its benefits. But what exactly is dry cupping, and how does it work?
Today I’m going to dive into the basics of this intriguing form of alternative medicine.
What Is Dry Cupping?
Dry cupping is a therapeutic technique in which suction is applied to the skin using special cups, usually made of glass, silicone, bamboo, or plastic. Unlike wet cupping (which involves a small incision to draw blood), dry cupping is non-invasive and does not break the skin.
The goal is to create a vacuum inside the cup, drawing the skin and superficial muscle layer upward. This suction is believed to promote healing, relieve muscle tension, increase blood circulation, and support the body’s natural detox processes. Pulling the skin into the cup also stretches the connective tissues underneath which helps them un-stick from each-other and leaves them loose.
How Does It Work?
Here’s a step-by-step look at how a typical dry cupping session works:
- Preparation: The practitioner will ask about your health history and symptoms to determine if cupping is appropriate. The treatment area is cleaned, and sometimes oil is applied to allow for easier movement of the cups. At Reset Massage in Tunbridge Wells I do some light myofascial stretching and some light massage before applying the cups.
- Creating Suction: The practitioner creates a vacuum inside each cup. This is traditionally done by briefly heating the air inside the cup with a flame before quickly placing it on the skin. Modern versions like at Reset Massage use a pump to remove air from the cup.
- Application: Once placed on the skin, the suction pulls the tissue upward into the cup. Depending on the goal, the cups may remain stationary for 5–15 minutes, or they may be gently moved around (a technique known as “gliding cupping”).
- Aftercare: After the session, the cups are removed, and the treated area may be massaged. You might notice circular red or purple marks—these are not bruises in the traditional sense, but a result of blood being drawn closer to the surface. They usually fade within a few days.
What Are the Proposed Benefits?
While scientific evidence is still growing, dry cupping is commonly used for:
- Pain relief, particularly in the back, neck, and shoulders
- Improving circulation and reducing muscle stiffness
- Boosting relaxation and reducing stress
- Supporting immune function
- Enhancing athletic recovery
- Improved mobility for athletic performance
Some studies suggest that cupping may trigger an anti-inflammatory response and stimulate local blood flow, which helps accelerate the body’s natural healing processes.
Is It Safe?
Dry cupping is safe when performed by a trained practitioner. Common side effects include temporary skin discoloration and mild soreness. It’s not recommended for people with certain medical conditions such as skin infections, blood disorders, or those who are pregnant without medical supervision but is otherwise completely fine.
Final Thoughts
Dry cupping blends ancient wisdom with modern wellness trends. Whether you’re seeking relief from muscle tension or simply looking to explore new ways to support your well-being, cupping offers a unique, non-invasive approach to healing. Clients leave feeling loose, mobile and pain free.
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