September 19, 2026 · Dr. of Chinese Medicine - Fatima Al-Hudaid
What is Cupping Therapy?
Cupping Therapy: More Than Muscle Relief
Cupping is a traditional therapy used in Chinese medicine and a number of other traditional medical systems around the world. It involves placing cups onto the skin and creating gentle negative pressure or suction.
Cupping Therapy: More Than Muscle Relief
Cupping is a traditional Chinese medicine therapy that uses firm suction on the skin. While it is commonly associated with muscle tension and those distinctive circular marks, its traditional use in Chinese medicine extends much further.
At Hudaid Health, cupping therapy may be incorporated alongside acupuncture and other Chinese medicine treatments when appropriate for the individual.
How Does Cupping Work?
During a traditional fire cupping session, specialised glass cups are used to create suction on selected areas of the body. A flame is briefly introduced inside the cup to create negative pressure before the cup is immediately placed onto the skin. This creates a pulling sensation, often accompanied by a feeling of warmth.
Depending on the desired treatment approach, the cups may remain stationary or gently glide across the skin.
From a Chinese medicine perspective, cupping is traditionally used to encourage blood flow and address patterns of stagnation.
Pain, Muscle Tension and Stiffness
Cupping is commonly incorporated into treatment for muscle tension, neck and shoulder tightness, back discomfort and general stiffness.
It may also be considered when headaches occur alongside significant muscular tension through the neck, shoulders and upper back.
Menstrual Health
In Chinese medicine, certain menstrual symptoms may be associated with a pattern that involves stagnant circulation around and within the womb that may lead symptoms such as cramps, clots, spotting, missed periods etc.
Depending on the individual and their pattern of imbalance, cupping may be used alongside acupuncture & herbal medicine to encourage movement and circulation and form part of a broader approach to menstrual health.
Colds, Congestion and Immune Health
Cupping has also traditionally been used during certain colds and respiratory presentations, particularly when symptoms include body aches, congestion or a feeling of heaviness.
In Chinese medicine, cupping across the upper back may be used to support the body's natural defensive functions during certain stages of illness. Whether cupping is appropriate depends on the individual's symptoms and overall presentation.
What Is "Dampness" in Chinese Medicine?
Dampness is a Chinese medicine term used to describe a pattern that can leave the body feeling heavy, sluggish, congested or weighed down.
Depending on the individual, this pattern may be associated with symptoms such as puffiness, digestive discomfort, a feeling of heaviness or excess phlegm.
When this pattern is identified, cupping may be incorporated into a broader Chinese medicine treatment alongside acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine and dietary recommendations.
An Individualised Approach to Cupping
Cupping isn't suitable for every person or every condition. Your Chinese medicine practitioner considers your symptoms, health history and individual presentation before deciding whether to include it as part of your treatment.
The circular marks that may appear after cupping are a result of the suction applied to the skin. Their colour and intensity can vary considerably between individuals and generally fade naturally over time.
At Hudaid Health, cupping therapy is used as part of an individualised approach to Chinese medicine and acupuncture, with treatment tailored to the person rather than simply the symptom.