Patient Education

What is cupping? An honest answer.

Cupping is a hands-on treatment. Your therapist places cups made of silicone, plastic or glass on your skin. The cups use suction to gently lift the skin and the tissue underneath. They can stay in one place, or your therapist can glide them over the skin with lotion or oil, which feels a lot like a deep-tissue massage.

In our clinic we use dry cupping only. That means there is no cutting of the skin and no bleeding.

Book a visit

Studio: 2862 E Old Ashland City Rd
Clarksville, TN 37043
During your visit: 5–15 min
Part of your PT session
Direct line: (931) 909-2458
Call or text the clinic directly: (931) 326-4818

Why your physical therapist may suggest cupping.

◦Muscle tightness and tension
◦Neck, shoulder and back pain
◦Muscle soreness after exercise
◦Getting ready for exercise by easing pain and stiffness

Cupping is one part of your treatment plan, not the whole plan. It works best alongside exercise, education and the other hands-on treatments that help you get stronger and move better over time.

Safety

Is cupping safe?

When a trained clinician does it, cupping is generally safe. Possible side effects include:

◦Marks or bruising
◦Short-lived soreness or tenderness
◦Skin irritation, blisters or, rarely, small burns or skin color changes
◦Feeling lightheaded

Who should not have cupping, or should check with us first?

Tell your therapist if any of these apply to you:

◦You take blood thinners, or you have a bleeding or clotting disorder
◦You have a history of blood clots, such as deep vein thrombosis
◦You are pregnant
◦You have cancer or are getting cancer treatment
◦You have diabetes with poor feeling in your skin, or fragile or thin skin
◦You have a skin condition, a wound, a rash, sunburn or a recent scar in the treatment area
◦You have a fever or an infection
◦You have a pacemaker or another implanted device near the treatment area
◦You have varicose veins in the treatment area

We do not place cups over open skin, varicose veins, sensitive areas, or the top of the neck at the base of the skull.

How to prepare, and what to do after.

Before

Drink water and eat a light snack. Wear clothes that make the treatment area easy to reach. Skip lotion on that area.

After

Drink fluids and keep moving gently. For the rest of the day, stay away from hot tubs, saunas and very hot showers, and protect the marks from the sun.

When to call the clinic

Call us if you have blisters, signs of infection (redness that is spreading, warmth or pus), pain that gets worse and lasts more than 48 hours, or marks that do not fade within 2 weeks. Get emergency care right away if you have a sudden severe headache, chest pain, or trouble breathing.

Common questions about cupping.

Does cupping work?: Research shows that cupping can ease pain for a short time, mostly right after a session. The research is mixed on whether it helps for the long term or helps you move and function better. In some studies, it did not do much better than “fake” cupping. Many people find it relaxing and helpful. We will check how you respond and keep using it only if it is helping you.
How does it work?: Scientists are not sure yet. Possible reasons include more blood flow to the area, muscle relaxation, and changes in how your nerves send pain signals.
Does it hurt?: Most people feel a pulling or tight feeling that is comfortable or only a little uncomfortable. Tell your therapist anytime you want less suction or want to stop.
What are the circular marks?: Round red or purple marks are common. They are not bruises from injury. They come from blood being drawn toward the skin. The marks usually go away in about 3 to 10 days. Darker marks do not mean the treatment worked better.
How long is a session, and how many will I need?: Cupping usually takes 5 to 15 minutes during your physical therapy visit. A lot of people have it once or twice a week. We will check your progress after a few sessions.
Is cupping covered by insurance?: Coverage depends on your plan. Please ask our front desk.
Is cupping used for wellness or sports recovery?: Some athletes use cupping for recovery. Early research suggests that it may help with relaxation and sleep, but it has not been shown to improve athletic performance.