Cupping – FAQs

What is cupping?

Cupping is an effective treatment where special cups are placed directly onto the skin which form a vacuum and is an alternative treatment for pain, inflammation and other soft tissue injuries.

It is a type of deep tissue massage which leads to an increased in nutrient and oxygen content within a localised area. By using a vacuum rather than manual pressure provided by sports massage. The vacuum effect on the soft tissue created micro-trauma.  The body is then stimulated to create an inflammatory response which is the natural process of healing. The manipulation to the soft tissue and fascia leads to a relaxation effect to the muscle, which often results to reduce pain, improve range of motion and performance, increased general relaxation and well-being.

What are the benefits of cupping?

There are many benefits of cupping. These include:

  • Pain Relief
  • Relaxation
  • Increased blood flow
  • Reduced tension and stress
  • Speeds up recovery from injury

What conditions can cupping also be used for?

Cupping has been clinically proven to be effective for the following conditions:

  • Fibromyalgia
  • Arthritis
  • Headaches
  • Low chronic back pain
  • Shoulder pain
  • Poor circulation
  • Treatment of old scar tissue

Where will the cups be placed?

The cups are often placed in various positions which include the back, neck shoulder and often at the site of the pain. Ryan will discuss this with you at your consultation.

Are there any side effects?

Some people do experience slight discolouration on the skin at the site of where the cup was placed. These will fade within the week and will not be painful.

What are the different types of cupping?

We offer two types of cupping; Dry Cupping & Fire Cupping

What is the difference between ‘Dry’ Cupping & ‘Fire’ Cupping?

Fire Cupping is a gentler treatment which uses heat to produce the vacuum within a glass cup.

Dry Cupping is a plastic cup which has a special device to achieve the desire suction level.

What should I wear?

A pair of shorts and a vest top is ideal.

What our clients say...

McNeely Skin and Body- Sports Massage and Therapy ★★★★★
  • Lee Wrigglesworth ★★★★★
    Ryan is fantastic! Knowledgeable and friendly, with a real passion for helping people. I initially made an appointment due to reoccurring lower back pain - Ryan was able to not only relieve the pain, but also advise on movements and exercises to prevent it coming back in the future. I have also been to Ryan with sports injuries, including pulled muscles, knee/ankle pains, and muscle soreness. He is always able to provide some relief and recovery assistance, would definitely recommend!!
    15/08/22 — 5 months ago
  • Sarah Booth ★★★★★
    Before visiting Ryan at McNeely Skin and Body I suffered with lower back and shoulder pain. After a couple of session I could feel a real difference, by combining massage with body positioning and using Ryan's exercises for posture I am now pain free and have more movement in all those areas. Due to the nature of my job I now visit on a monthly basis for regular maintenance. Ryan is very knowledgeable, the sessions are very relaxed and I always feel amazing afterwards. Highly recommended 🌟
    13/01/23 — 3 weeks ago
  • Emma.m ★★★★★
    I’ve been going for therapy from Ryan for a while now I suffer with osteoarthritis down my spine knees shoulder and arthritis in my feet.. also anxiety. Ryan on the first consultation sat on the floor and showed me all the demonstrations, and how to sit and just breathe it seems so simple but actually calming breathing... as for treatment he’s been absolutely fantastic I wasn’t living a good quality of life before I met Ryan. The pain was just taking over my life, to the point I barely left the house.. this man has single Handley reduced my pain the massage and cupping has helped enormously my pain is reduced by 80 % with every 2 weekly appointments with him.. Ryan thank you so much for everything. Kindest regards Emma
    06/10/22 — 4 months ago
  • Nick Hurrell ★★★★★
    Ryan has been a great help. From our initial consultation to follow up sessions he has offered advise and remedies and fantastic massage for issues with back, neck and knee injuries. Ryan continues to provide excellent treatments that help me feel relexed, energised and motivated to maintain fitness and continue to play competitive sport.
    18/12/22 — a month ago
  • Sharon Rachel ★★★★★
    Ryan is very knowledgeable and insightful with a calm demeanour. He fixes my shoulders and back right up even if I'm stiff from a strenuous workout or sleeping wrong. He is easy to be around and accommodates if I have to move my times around a little. I feel very comfortable with him and I highly recommend. My back has certainly improved since going to him.
    13/10/22 — 3 months ago