Clinical Cupping with silicone cups: what you need to know
Cupping therapy has been practised for centuries in different cultures, but in recent years it has found a place in modern clinical and sports massage. You may have seen athletes with round marks on their backs and wondered what it was all about. Is it safe? Does it work? And could it help you?
In my practice, cupping is never used as a stand-alone treatment. Instead, I may include it as part of a clinical or sports massage session when I feel it could support your recovery, reduce tension, or improve mobility. Used in this way, cupping can be a valuable complement to hands-on massage techniques.
What Is Clinical Cupping?
Clinical cupping involves placing flexible cups on the skin to create gentle suction. This creates a decompressive effect, the opposite of the compressive pressure we’re used to in massage. The cups can either stay in one place for a few minutes or be moved slowly over tight or sore areas.
In my treatments, I use silicone cups rather than traditional glass “fire cups.” Silicone cups are safe, hygienic, and easy to adapt, allowing me to control the level of suction throughout. That means the treatment can be as gentle or as deep as needed, depending on your comfort, sensitivity, and goals.
While cupping has ancient roots, modern practice is informed by research showing benefits for circulation, pain relief, mobility, and recovery.
How Does It Work?
When suction is applied to the skin, several therapeutic effects occur:
Improved circulation: Blood flow increases to the area, bringing oxygen and nutrients while helping to clear waste products.
Reduced muscle tension: The nervous system responds to the gentle lift, encouraging overactive muscles to release.
Better tissue mobility: Lifting the fascia (the connective tissue around muscles) helps reduce adhesions and restores freer movement.
Support for lymphatic drainage: Cupping can encourage the body’s natural detox processes and reduce local inflammation.
The cups may be kept still over a specific tight spot or moved slowly to mobilise a larger area. Because the intensity is adjustable, the treatment is suitable for a wide variety of needs, from gentle decompression for sensitive areas to deeper mobilisation for robust muscle groups.
What Does the Research Say?
Although cupping was once viewed as a purely traditional practice, there is now a growing body of evidence supporting its use in clinical settings. Studies suggest that cupping may:
Reduce musculoskeletal pain, especially in the back, neck, and shoulders.
Improve range of motion and flexibility.
Support recovery from exercise-related muscle soreness.
Assist in managing chronic conditions such as lower back pain or knee osteoarthritis.
Research also shows that cupping tends to work best as part of a multimodal approach; in other words, when it’s combined with other therapies like massage, stretching, or exercise. That’s exactly why I use it selectively within massage treatments.
Who Can Benefit?
Because it’s so adaptable, clinical cupping can support a wide range of people. You may find it helpful if you are:
An active individual; runner, cyclist, gym-goer, or someone who trains regularly.
Living with persistent tension, particularly in the back, shoulders, or neck.
Recovering from an injury and needing support for soft tissue healing.
Managing chronic conditions such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, or long-term back pain.
Experiencing stress-related tightness or habitual holding patterns.
Many people describe feeling lighter, looser, and more mobile after treatment, often with a noticeable reduction in pain.
When Is Cupping Not Suitable?
Although safe for most people, there are circumstances where cupping is not recommended. It’s generally unsuitable if you have:
Broken skin, wounds, or active skin conditions in the area.
Severe varicose veins or fragile capillaries.
Uncontrolled high blood pressure or serious heart conditions.
A tendency to bleed or bruise easily (including those on blood-thinning medication).
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
Cancer, unless specifically approved by your healthcare provider.
Pregnancy, especially on the abdomen or lower back.
This is why I always discuss your health history before including cupping, to make sure it’s safe and right for you.
What to Expect in a Session
If I feel cupping could be useful during your treatment, I’ll explain how it works and ask for your consent before starting. The cups may be applied for just a few minutes or combined with hands-on techniques to maximise effectiveness.
You’ll likely feel a gentle pulling sensation as the cups take hold, but it should never be painful. Because the suction level is adjustable, I can always adapt it to your comfort. In some cases, you may notice temporary round marks on the skin where cups were placed. These are not bruises; they’re simply a sign of increased circulation, and they usually fade within a few days.
Afterwards, many clients describe feeling relaxed, lighter, and freer in their movement.
The Benefits of Clinical Cupping with Massage
When integrated into a massage session, cupping can provide:
Relief from muscular pain and stiffness.
Faster recovery after training or activity.
Improved joint flexibility and mobility.
Reduced inflammation in soft tissues.
Support with persistent or long-term pain conditions.
A deeper sense of relaxation and overall wellbeing.
It’s this combination of physical and systemic effects that makes cupping such a valuable tool as part of a broader treatment plan.
Is Clinical Cupping Right for You?
Clinical cupping with silicone cups is not a one-size-fits-all solution. But when included thoughtfully as part of a massage treatment, it can be a safe and effective way to ease pain, improve movement, and support recovery.
Whether you’re an active person looking to boost recovery or someone living with chronic tension, cupping could be a supportive addition to your treatment.
Book a massage with Cheryl and let’s explore whether cupping is right for your body. I’ll be happy to explain the process and adapt it to your needs.