Cupping Therapy Explained: Benefits, Uses, Side Effects & Dry Cupping in Physiotherapy

Ever woken up with a stiff neck that just won't budge? Or dealt with that nagging lower back pain that makes even sitting uncomfortable? Maybe you're an athlete pushing through sore muscles after every training session?

You're not alone. Millions of people across India search for effective, natural ways to manage pain and speed up recovery. That's where cupping therapy comes in—a technique that's been making waves in modern physiotherapy centres.

If you've seen those circular marks on athletes or heard friends talking about cupping, you might be curious: What exactly is it? Does it actually work? Is it safe?

In this guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know about dry cupping therapy—how it works, what conditions it helps with, what to expect during a session, and why physiotherapists are increasingly using it as part of comprehensive treatment plans.

Let's dive in.

What Is Cupping Therapy?

Cupping therapy is a therapeutic technique where special cups are placed on your skin to create suction. This suction gently pulls the skin and underlying tissue upward, which helps improve blood flow, release muscle tension, and support the body's natural healing process.

In physiotherapy clinics today, dry cupping is the most commonly used method. Unlike other variations, dry cupping relies purely on suction—no incisions, no bleeding, just the therapeutic effect of controlled pressure and release.

Here's how it works:

Your physiotherapist places cups (usually made of silicone, glass, or plastic) on specific areas of your body. The suction can be created using:

• Manual pumps – A small device pulls air out of the cup

• Flame method – Heat briefly creates a vacuum (the cup cools immediately on your skin)

• Electric suction devices – Modern, precise control

Once placed, the cups stay on for 5–15 minutes. Some therapists use stationary cupping (cups stay in one place) or massage cupping (cups are moved across the skin with oil).

The result? Improved circulation, reduced muscle tightness, and often, noticeable pain relief.

Why Cupping Therapy Is Done

Physiotherapists recommend dry cupping therapy for several reasons, all centred around helping your body heal and function better:

• Muscle Tension and TightnessIf you sit at a desk all day or carry heavy loads, your muscles get tight and knotted. Cupping helps release these tension points naturally.

• Poor Blood CirculationThe suction effect draws fresh blood to the area, bringing oxygen and nutrients that support healing and reduce inflammation.

• Chronic PainMany people dealing with long-term pain—whether from old injuries, poor posture, or repetitive strain—find relief through regular cupping sessions.

• Sports InjuriesAthletes use cupping to speed up recovery from strains, sprains, and overuse injuries. It's become popular in cricket, football, and gym training communities.

• Postural StressHours of hunching over phones and laptops create upper back and neck strain. Cupping targets these problem areas effectively.

The goal isn't just temporary relief—it's about supporting your body's ability to heal itself while addressing the root cause of discomfort.

What Does Cupping Therapy Do?

Think of cupping as giving your muscles a "deep breath." Here's what happens during and after a session:

• Improves Blood Flow: The suction pulls stagnant blood and fluids from deep tissues to the surface, making way for fresh, oxygen-rich blood. This improved circulation helps reduce inflammation and promotes healing.

• Reduces Muscle Tightness: Tight muscles restrict movement and cause pain. Cupping creates space in the tissue, allowing muscles to relax and lengthen naturally.

• Supports Pain Modulation: The pressure from cupping stimulates sensory nerves, which can help "interrupt" pain signals being sent to your brain. Many patients report feeling immediate relief.

• Encourages Faster Recovery: Whether you're recovering from an injury or just dealing with everyday aches, cupping helps your body heal more efficiently by clearing metabolic waste and bringing in healing nutrients.

• Releases Fascial Restrictions: Your fascia (the connective tissue wrapping your muscles) can get stuck or restricted. Cupping gently lifts and separates these layers, restoring smooth movement.

In simple terms: cupping helps your body do what it already knows how to do—heal—but faster and more effectively.

What Is Cupping Therapy Used For?

Dry cupping therapy has proven helpful for a wide range of conditions commonly seen in physiotherapy clinics:

1. Neck Pain: Whether from poor sleep positions or desk work, cupping releases tension in the neck and upper trapezius muscles.

2. Back Pain: Lower back pain from sitting, lifting, or postural issues responds well to cupping combined with exercises and manual therapy.

3. Shoulder Stiffness: Frozen shoulder, rotator cuff issues, or general tightness can improve with targeted cupping treatment.

4. Knee Pain: Cupping around the knee helps with pain from arthritis, ligament strain, or post-surgery recovery.

5. Sports Injuries: Muscle strains, tendonitis, and overuse injuries heal faster when cupping is part of the rehabilitation plan.

6. Post-Workout Recovery: Athletes use cupping to reduce muscle soreness (DOMS) and get back to training quicker.

7. Tension Headaches: Cupping on the neck and upper back can reduce tension that triggers headaches.

8. Chronic Pain Conditions: Fibromyalgia, myofascial pain syndrome, and similar conditions often see symptom relief with regular cupping.

The key is proper assessment. A trained physiotherapist will evaluate your condition and determine if cupping is appropriate for you.

Cupping Therapy in Physiotherapy

This is where things get interesting—and where cupping really shines.

When you visit a physiotherapy clinic for cupping, you're not just getting cups placed on your body and sent home. You're getting a comprehensive treatment approach designed specifically for your condition.

What Cupping Does in Physio

Physiotherapists use dry cupping as one tool in a larger treatment plan. It's often combined with:

• Manual therapy – Hands-on techniques to mobilise joints and soft tissue

• Therapeutic exercises – Stretches and strengthening movements

• Postural correction – Addressing the root cause of pain

• Education – Teaching you how to prevent future problems

How It's Different from a Massage

A massage therapist might use cupping for relaxation and general tension relief, which is great. But a physiotherapist uses cupping with a specific rehabilitation goal in mind.

For example:

• If you have a frozen shoulder, cupping is used to reduce pain and stiffness before doing gentle mobilisation exercises

• If you're recovering from a hamstring strain, cupping helps improve tissue healing alongside progressive strengthening

• If you have chronic lower back pain, cupping releases tight muscles while you work on core stability

The difference? Integration and progression. Your physiotherapist adjusts the treatment as you improve, ensuring you don't just feel better temporarily but actually recover.

Professional Assessment Matters

A qualified physiotherapist will:

• Assess your movement patterns and pain triggers

• Identify which muscles or tissues need cupping

• Determine the right suction intensity and duration

• Monitor your progress and modify treatment as needed

• Combine cupping with other evidence-based techniques

This personalised approach is why cupping in physiotherapy often delivers better, longer-lasting results than cupping alone.

Dry Cupping Therapy Explained

Let's break down exactly what happens during a dry cupping session.

What Is Dry Cupping?

Dry cupping is the non-invasive form of cupping therapy. It uses only suction—no needles, no skin punctures, no bleeding. It's safe, clean, and widely used in physiotherapy clinics worldwide.

Types of Cups Used

• Silicone cups – Flexible, easy to squeeze for suction

• Glass cups – Traditional, often used with the flame method

• Plastic cups – Used with manual or electric pumps

What a Session Feels Like

When the cup is first applied, you'll feel a pulling or tugging sensation as the suction takes hold. It's not painful—most people describe it as a "tight" or "pressure" feeling, similar to a deep tissue massage.

As the cups sit on your skin:

• The area may feel warm as blood flow increases

• You might feel your muscles gradually relaxing

• Some areas may be more sensitive than others (this is normal)

If the suction feels too strong, tell your physiotherapist immediately. They can adjust the intensity.

Duration and Frequency

• Per session: Cups typically stay on for 5–15 minutes

• Treatment frequency: Usually 1–2 times per week, depending on your condition

• Total sessions: Most people see noticeable improvement within 4–6 sessions

After the cups are removed, your physiotherapist may do some light massage or stretching to complete the treatment.

Cupping Therapy Benefits

Here's what you can expect when cupping is done correctly by a trained professional:

1. Pain Relief: Effective for chronic pain, acute injuries, and muscle soreness

2. Muscle Relaxation: Releases tension, knots, and tightness that restrict movement

3. Improved Mobility: Helps you move more freely with less stiffness

4. Faster Healing: Boosts circulation to injured areas, speeding up recovery time

5. Stress Relief: The relaxation effect can help reduce overall stress and anxiety

6. Better Sleep: Many people report sleeping better after cupping sessions

7. Enhanced Athletic Performance: Reduces recovery time between workouts and competitions

8. Non-Invasive: No surgery, no injections—just natural healing support

9. Complements Other Treatments: Works well alongside exercises, manual therapy, and medication

The benefits build over time, especially when cupping is part of a consistent physiotherapy program.

Cupping Therapy Side Effects

Like any therapeutic technique, dry cupping can have some side effects—but they're generally mild and temporary.

Common Side Effects:

1. Circular MarksThe most noticeable effect is circular discolouration on your skin where the cups were placed. These marks:

2. Range from light pink to deep purple (darker marks don't mean better results)

3. Are not bruises or injuries—they're caused by blood being drawn to the surface

4. Usually fade within 3–7 days

5. Don't hurt

6. Mild SorenessYou might feel slightly sore in the treated area for 24–48 hours, similar to post-workout soreness. This is normal and means your body is responding to the treatment.

7. Temporary FatigueSome people feel tired or sleepy after their first few sessions as their body adjusts and begins the healing process.

When to Consult Your Physiotherapist:

Contact your physiotherapist if you experience:

• Severe pain during or after treatment

• Marks that don't fade after 10 days

• Skin irritation, burning, or blistering

• Dizziness or nausea during the session

These reactions are rare but should be addressed immediately.

How to Minimise Side Effects:

• Stay well-hydrated before and after your session

• Avoid heavy exercise immediately after cupping

• Wear loose clothing to your appointment

• Communicate openly with your physiotherapist about your comfort level

Remember: side effects don't mean the treatment isn't working. They're a normal part of the therapeutic process.

Is Cupping Therapy Safe During Pregnancy?

Short answer: Cupping is generally avoided during pregnancy unless specifically cleared by both your doctor and a trained physiotherapist.

Here's why:

Pregnancy brings significant changes to your body—hormonal shifts, increased blood volume, changes in circulation, and ligament laxity. While cupping is safe for most people, pregnant women need extra caution because:

• Certain areas (lower back, abdomen, pelvis) should never be cupped during pregnancy

• The suction effect could theoretically trigger uterine contractions in some cases

• Pregnancy already affects circulation, and cupping's impact needs careful consideration

• Your body is already under physical stress; additional stimulation may not be ideal

If You're Pregnant and Considering Cupping:

1. Consult your obstetrician first – Get medical clearance

2. Choose an experienced physiotherapist – They should have specific training in prenatal care

3. Stick to safe areas – Upper back and shoulders may be acceptable in some cases

4. Consider alternatives – Gentle massage, prenatal exercises, and postural advice might be better options

After Pregnancy:

Cupping can be very helpful during postpartum recovery for:

• Upper back and neck tension from breastfeeding positions

• Lower back pain from carrying the baby

• Muscle recovery and rehabilitation

Always wait until you've been cleared by your doctor for physical therapy, and choose a physiotherapist experienced in postpartum care.

The safest approach? Discuss all treatment options with your healthcare provider before trying cupping during pregnancy.

Cupping Therapy Near Me / Cupping Physiotherapy Near Me

Searching for "cupping therapy near me" or "cupping physiotherapy near me"? You're taking the right step toward professional care.

Healthy Jeena Sikho provides professional cupping therapy as part of comprehensive physiotherapy services.

📍 Clinic Address:

Healthy Jeena Sikho, SCO No 48 & 49, First Floor,Sector 71, Mohali, Punjab – 160071

As a trusted physiotherapy provider, Healthy Jeena Sikho offers:

• Expert cupping therapy

• Personalised treatment plans

• Experienced physiotherapy team

• Modern equipment and techniques

• Integration with exercises, manual therapy, and rehabilitation

• Focus on long-term recovery, not just temporary relief

Whether you're dealing with chronic pain, sports injuries, or mobility issues, professional physiotherapy-guided cupping can help you recover effectively and safely.

Before Your First Visit:

• Note down your symptoms, when they started, and what makes them better or worse

• Bring any medical reports or imaging results you have

• Wear loose, comfortable clothing

• Stay hydrated

• Come with an open mind and realistic expectations

Remember: the best results come from consistent treatment and following your physiotherapist's complete care plan—not just one-off cupping sessions.

FAQs

Q1. What does cupping therapy do?

Cupping therapy uses suction to improve blood circulation, release muscle tension, reduce pain, and support the body's natural healing process. It draws stagnant blood to the surface and brings fresh, oxygen-rich blood to treated areas.

Q2. Is cupping therapy good or bad?

Cupping therapy is beneficial when performed by trained physiotherapists for appropriate conditions like muscle pain, sports injuries, and chronic tension. It's safe and effective as part of a comprehensive treatment plan, but may not be suitable for everyone—especially those with certain medical conditions or during pregnancy.

Q3. What are the side effects of cupping?

The most common side effects are temporary circular marks on the skin (lasting 3–7 days), mild soreness for 24–48 hours, and occasional fatigue. These are normal responses and not harmful. Serious side effects are rare when cupping is done by qualified professionals.

Q4. What does cupping do in physiotherapy?

In physiotherapy, cupping is used as part of a complete rehabilitation program. Physiotherapists combine cupping with manual therapy, therapeutic exercises, and postural correction to treat the root cause of pain and dysfunction—not just provide temporary relief.

Q5. What is cupping therapy used for?

Cupping therapy is commonly used for neck pain, back pain, shoulder stiffness, knee pain, sports injuries, post-workout recovery, tension headaches, chronic pain conditions, and muscle tightness from poor posture or repetitive strain.

Q6. Is cupping therapy safe during pregnancy?

Cupping is generally avoided during pregnancy unless specifically cleared by your doctor and performed by an experienced physiotherapist. Certain body areas should never be treated during pregnancy. After delivery, cupping can be helpful for postpartum recovery once you have medical clearance.

Q7. Why is cupping therapy done?

Cupping therapy is done to address muscle tension, improve poor blood circulation, manage chronic pain, treat sports injuries, and relieve postural stress. It supports the body's natural healing mechanisms while providing pain relief and improved mobility.

Q8. Is dry cupping painful?

Dry cupping is not painful when done correctly. Most people feel a pulling or tugging sensation and slight pressure—similar to a deep tissue massage. Some areas may be more sensitive than others. If it becomes uncomfortable, your physiotherapist can adjust the suction intensity.

Q9. How long do cupping marks last?

Cupping marks typically last 3–7 days, though this varies by individual. Darker marks don't mean better results—they just indicate more blood was drawn to the surface. The marks are not bruises and don't hurt. They gradually fade on their own without treatment.

Q10. How many sessions are usually needed?

Most people see noticeable improvement within 4–6 cupping sessions, typically done 1–2 times per week. However, the exact number depends on your condition, severity, and overall treatment goals. Chronic conditions may require ongoing maintenance sessions.

Conclusion

Dry cupping therapy has earned its place in modern physiotherapy—not because it's trendy, but because it works when used correctly.

Whether you're an athlete looking to recover faster, someone dealing with chronic pain, or just tired of living with constant muscle tension, cupping can be a valuable part of your healing journey.

But here's the important part: cupping isn't a quick fix. Real, lasting improvement comes from working with a qualified physiotherapist who understands your body, assesses your condition properly, and creates a complete treatment plan tailored to your needs.

The circular marks fade in a few days. The relief and improved mobility? That can last much longer—especially when you commit to the full rehabilitation process.

Ready to take the next step?

Don't self-diagnose or try cupping at home without proper guidance. Book a consultation with a qualified physiotherapist who can assess your condition and determine if dry cupping therapy is right for you.

Your body has an incredible ability to heal. Sometimes it just needs the right support—and a skilled physiotherapist using evidence-based techniques like cupping—to unlock that potential.

Take care of your body. It's the only one you've got.

Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified physiotherapist or healthcare provider before starting any new treatment.