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While the therapy has grown in popularity in the last decade, cupping isn’t a new-age technique. Its roots – and rings – run deep for thousands of years. Cupping involves placing cups (made of glass, plastic, bamboo or ceramic) on the skin to create suction. Cups can be applied to the skin on the back, shoulders, stomach, legs or any muscle group where it’s easy to attach the cups. 

“This suction creates a negative pressure environment allowing for myofascial decompression as the skin is drawn into the cups,” Ebinger said. “While massage therapy uses direct pressure to release tension, cupping uses negative pressure to lift the muscle fibers and increase blood flow to the area.” 

• Pain management: Cupping can help with generalized pain, as well as inflammatory pain conditions like herpes zoster. 
• Improved circulation: Cupping can increase blood flow and oxygen to damaged tissue, which can help with healing. 
• Reduced inflammation: Cupping can help reduce inflammation and muscle tightness. 
• Improved headaches: Cupping may help reduce the severity and frequency of headaches and migraines. 
• Improved varicose veins: Cupping can help improve varicose veins by increasing blood flow and oxygen to the affected area. 
• Mental health: Cupping may help with symptoms of anxiety and stress. 

Cupping is generally considered safe, but it can leave behind bruises that may resemble abuse. Cupping is not recommended for people with certain conditions, including: 

• Heart, kidney, or liver failure 
• Pacemaker 
• Hemophilia, anemia, or other blood disorders 
• Heart disease 
• Taking blood thinners