Cupping Therapy at Lao Niang TCM
Home TCM Treatment

Cupping Therapy

Book A TCM Appointment

What is Cupping Therapy and How Does it Work?

What is Cupping Therapy and How Does it Work?
What is Cupping Therapy and How Does it Work?

Cupping therapy is an ancient healing practice with roots tracing back to around 1550 B.C., as seen in Egyptian records like the Ebers Papyrus [1]. Widely practiced in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), cupping uses special cups to create suction on the skin [2], promoting blood flow, easing muscle tension, and aiding the body’s natural healing process.

During a session, TCM practitioners place glass, bamboo, or silicone cups on specific points of the body. The suction effect gently lifts the skin and tissues, enhancing circulation, drawing out toxins, and reducing muscle tightness for relaxation and improved wellness.

Holistic | Natural | Therapeutic

The Benefits of Cupping

Relieves Pain

Cupping stretches muscles, improves circulation, and releases tension, reducing pain [3] and promoting relaxation.

Expels Dampness and Detoxifies

Draws out excess moisture and toxins[4][5][6], revitalising the body and restoring energy.

Improves Overall Wellness

Stimulating acupoints balances organ function, modulates immunity[7], and supports overall health.

The Benefits of Cupping

Boosts Immunity

Activating the immune response helps reduce inflammation and strengthens the body’s natural defences.

Promotes Metabolism

Enhanced circulation accelerates metabolism, aiding waste elimination and boosting energy levels.

Reduces Stress and Promotes Relaxation

Cupping promotes muscle relaxation [5][6], eases tension, calms the mind, and enhances overall well-being.

Why choose Lao Niang TCM?

Lao Niang TCM provide effective relief with strict hygiene standards, personalised care, and trusted results for pain, circulation, and well-being.
Book Your Cupping Session

Effective, Proven Results

Relieves pain, improves circulation, and enhances overall well-being.

Strict Hygiene Standards

Sterilised equipment and a clean environment ensure safety.

Holistic, Personalised Approach

Tailored treatments for pain relief, immune support, and well-being.

Trusted by Clients

Our satisfied clients consistently return, trusting us for exceptional care and results.

Different Types of Cupping Therapy

Enhance your body’s natural healing process, reduce tension, and promote overall wellness.

 

Dry Cupping

Dry cupping involves placing cups on the skin to create suction, which enhances blood flow, promotes relaxation, and supports healing without breaking the skin.

  1. Air Cupping:
    Air cupping uses silicone or plastic cups with a manual or electric pump to create suction without heat, allowing adjustable pressure that gently reduces muscle tension and improves circulation.
  2. Fire Cupping:
    In fire cupping, a flame briefly heats the air inside a glass cup, creating a cooling vacuum when placed on the skin. This method promotes deep muscle relaxation and tension release.

40 SGD
Dry Cupping

Wet Cupping

Wet cupping involves making small incisions in the skin before applying suction to the cups. This process allows a small amount of blood to be drawn out, which is believed to help remove toxins, support detoxification, and further enhance circulation in targeted areas.

90 SGD
Wet Cupping
FAQ

What to Know Before and After Your Cupping Session

Dry Cupping: Cups are placed on the skin, creating suction without breaking the skin.

  • Air Cupping: Silicone or plastic cups are suctioned using a pump instead of heat, allowing adjustable pressure.
  • Fire Cupping: A flame is briefly introduced in a glass cup to create suction through cooling as the cup is applied.

Wet Cupping: Tiny incisions are made in the skin before suction, allowing a small amount of blood to release.

A typical cupping session lasts between 20 to 30 minutes, depending on the treatment plan and specific needs. This includes preparation, actual cupping time (usually around 10–20 minutes), and post-treatment care.

  1. Pregnant Women
    Cupping is generally avoided on the abdomen and lower back during pregnancy to prevent any potential harm.
  2. People with Skin Conditions
    Those with skin infections, rashes, or wounds should avoid cupping, as it can aggravate these conditions.
  3. Individuals with Blood Disorders
    People with bleeding disorders (such as hemophilia) or those on blood-thinning medications should avoid cupping due to the risk of bruising and excessive bleeding.
  4. Individuals with Weak Immune Systems
    Those with compromised immune systems, such as after recent surgery or illness, may not be suitable for cupping, as it can temporarily weaken the body further.
  5. People with High Fever or Severe Illness
    Cupping is not recommended for those with high fever, severe infections, or serious medical conditions, as it may not be beneficial in such cases.
  • Hydrate well to prepare your body.
  • Avoid heavy meals at least an hour before the session.
  • Wear comfortable clothing for ease during the treatment.
  • Ensure your skin is clean and free of lotions or oils for effective suction.
  • You may feel a gentle pulling or pressure as the cups create suction.
  • Most find it relaxing, with a mild warmth or tingling sensation, which is normal.
  • Sessions generally last 10–20 minutes depending on your needs.
  • Circular marks may appear on the skin, typically fading within a few days.
  • Some may experience mild soreness, similar to a deep massage.
  • Staying hydrated and resting afterward can support recovery and enhance the benefits.

Cupping marks vary in colour and indicate circulation and tension levels:

  • Dark Red or Purple: Indicates areas of stagnation or poor circulation.
  • Light Pink or Red: Suggests good circulation and minimal stagnation.
  • No Marks: Shows healthy circulation without tension buildup.

Cupping is generally safe, but some people may experience mild side effects, including:

  • Skin Discolouration: Circular marks or bruises may appear on the skin; these typically fade within a few days to a week.
  • Mild Soreness or Discomfort: Some may feel sore in the treated areas, similar to post-massage soreness.
  • Dizziness or Lightheadedness: Rarely, people may feel lightheaded immediately after the session; resting can help.
  • Skin Irritation: Temporary redness, mild swelling, or sensitivity may occur in the cupped areas.
  • Infection (Rare): If not performed in a sterile environment or by a professional practitioner, there’s a minor risk of skin infection, particularly with wet cupping.

Always consult a trained therapist and communicate any concerns prior to the session.

  • Cupping is generally not painful; most people feel a mild pulling or pressure sensation.
  • The experience is usually relaxing and well-tolerated.
  • Some may feel slight discomfort, especially if it’s their first session, but this is normal.
  • Yes, cupping is safe when performed by a trained and qualified practitioner.
  • Conducted in a sterile environment to minimise risks.
  • Minor side effects like temporary skin discolouration or mild soreness may occur.
  • Serious complications are rare when proper procedures are followed.

[1] Tamer S. Aboushanab, Saud AlSanad. Cupping Therapy: An Overview from a Modern Medicine Perspective. Journal of Acupuncture and Meridian Studies. Volume 11, Issue 3,2018. Pages 83-87.ISSN 2005-2901.

[2] Furhad S, Sina RE, Bokhari AA. Cupping Therapy. [Updated 2023 Oct 30]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2024 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK538253/

[3] Rozenfeld Evgeni, Kalichman Leonid. New is the well-forgotten old: the use of dry cupping in musculoskeletal medicine. J Bodyw Mov Ther. 2016;20(1):173–178. doi: 10.1016/j.jbmt.2015.11.009.

[4] Yoo Simon S., Tausk Francisco. Cupping: east meets west. Int J Dermatol. 2004;43:664–665. doi: 10.1111/j.1365-4632.2004.02224.x. 9

[5] Cui S., Cui J. Progress of researches on the mechanism of cupping therapy. Zhen ci yan jiu. Acupunct. Res. 2012;37:506–510. 6.

[6] Al-Bedah AMN, Elsubai IS, Qureshi NA, Aboushanab TS, Ali GIM, El-Olemy AT, Khalil AAH, Khalil MKM, Alqaed MS. The medical perspective of cupping therapy: Effects and mechanisms of action. J Tradit Complement Med. 2018 Apr 30;9(2):90-97. doi: 10.1016/j.jtcme.2018.03.003. PMID: 30963043; PMCID: PMC6435947.

[7] Chirali Ilkay Zihni. Traditional Chinese Medicine Cupping Therapy. third ed. Churchill Livingstone. Elsevier; Philadelphia: 2014. pp. 47–64.

Locate Us
Book Appointment
WhatsApp

Schedule An Appointment

Closing hours may vary occasionally. To prevent disappointment, for walk-ins, please message us before you drop by. We highly recommend appointment-booking online or WhatsApp us.

Schedule Your Visit