Cupping

Cupping is a therapeutic technique that involves placing suction cups on the skin to improve circulation, reduce muscle tension, and promote healing. It's often used to relieve pain and inflammation. When combined with acupuncture, cupping can enhance the overall therapeutic effect.

If you're curious about how cupping can benefit you, schedule a consultation with our experienced practitioners today.

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What Cupping Commonly Treats

Pain

Cupping can effectively alleviate pain associated with muscle tension, arthritis, and sports injuries. Recent studies have shown that cupping can reduce pain intensity and improve range of motion in individuals with chronic low back pain and neck pain.

Poor Circulation

Cupping can stimulate blood flow, which can help reduce muscle soreness, stiffness, and fatigue. Research suggests that cupping can increase blood flow to the affected area, leading to faster tissue repair and reduced inflammation.

Swelling/Inflammation

Cupping can stimulate the lymphatic system, which helps to remove toxins from the body. This can lead to improved overall health and well-being. Studies have shown that cupping can increase lymphatic drainage, which can help to reduce swelling and inflammation.

Stress and Anxiety

Cupping can be a relaxing and rejuvenating experience. It can help to reduce stress and anxiety, promote relaxation, and improve sleep quality.

Weak Immune System

By stimulating the lymphatic system, cupping can help boost the immune system and improve the body's ability to fight off infections. It can also help alleviate cold symptoms by drawing out coldness and promoting faster recovery.

Skin Tone & Complexion

Cupping can improve skin health by increasing blood flow, which can help nourish the skin and reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. It's often combined with facial acupuncture for maximum benefit.

What to expect


A cupping session typically involves a practitioner placing special cups on your skin. These cups create suction, drawing blood to the surface. You may feel a slight pulling sensation, but it’s generally painless. The cups are left in place for about 5-15 minutes, then removed. You may experience some temporary redness or circular marks on your skin, which usually fade within a few days. The overall experience is often relaxing and can provide relief from various ailments.

FAQs

  • You might feel a gentle pulling sensation, but it’s generally not painful. The pressure of the cupping can be adjusted to your comfort level.

  • No, the marks usually fade within a few days. The color and intensity of the marks can provide valuable information to your practitioner. Applying arnica gel can help speed up the fading process.

  • Most people can benefit from cupping, but it’s not recommended for those with certain skin conditions or blood disorders. Consult with your practitioner to determine if cupping is right for you.

  • Frequency depends on your condition. Many start with weekly sessions and adjust based on results.

  • Cupping therapy uses suction cups to draw blood to the skin's surface. There are two main types: dry cupping and wet cupping. At Raon, we use dry cupping, which involves placing suction cups on the skin to relieve pain and promote healing.

The History of Cupping

Dating back to ancient Egyptian, Chinese, and Middle Eastern medicine, cupping has evolved into a clinical practice used worldwide.

In recent years, cupping has gained significant attention, especially among Olympic athletes who use it to enhance performance and aid in recovery. As research continues to explore the benefits of cupping, it's becoming increasingly recognized as a valuable tool for promoting overall well-being.