** Available from January 2026**
Overview
Cupping therapy is a therapeutic technique that involves the application of specialised cups to the skin, creating negative pressure (suction) that lifts soft tissue. This technique has been used for centuries in traditional medicine and is increasingly integrated into modern clinical practice as a complementary therapy.
The suction produced by cupping increases local blood circulation, mobilises connective tissue, and can assist in relieving musculoskeletal pain, stiffness, and restricted movement.
Clinical Benefits
- Reduce musculoskeletal pain (particularly in the back, shoulders, and neck).
- Improve circulation and tissue oxygenation.
- Improves mobility at the joint
- Increases the removal of chemical irritants within a muscle
- Increases the removal of oedema after injury
- Decrease muscle tension and adhesions.
- Support recovery from sports injuries.
- Promote relaxation of the nervous system, reducing perceived stress.
Procedure
- Sterile vacuum cups on specific treatment areas.
- Negative pressure is created manually (with a pump).
- Dependent on techniques used, cups may remain stationary or be gently moved across the skin.
Safety and Side Effects
Cupping therapy is generally safe when performed by trained practitioners. Potential side effects include:
- Temporary skin discoloration (circular marks or redness)
- Mild tenderness at treatment sites
- Rare cases of skin irritation
These effects usually resolve within several days.
Contraindications
It is essential that you provide your practitioner with your full medical history, as certain conditions may require modified techniques, restricted treatment areas, or may influence whether cupping is appropriate. Please disclose if any of the following apply to you:
- Bleeding disorders (e.g., haemophilia)
- Enlarged blood vessels such as varicose veins or thromboses
- Use of anticoagulant medications
- Active cuts, brittle or broken skin
- Skin infections
- Severe cardiac or renal conditions
- Pregnancy (abdominal or lower-back cupping is contraindicated)
- Recent surgery
- Areas experiencing loss of sensation
Your practitioner will determine the safest and most effective approach for your needs.
Integration with Care
Cupping therapy can be booked as a stand-alone treatment or alongside your chiropractic care. For all cupping treatments, we generally use between 5–17 cups, depending on your needs and treatment goals.
For the most complete experience, we recommend our combined Chiropractic & Cupping session. With extra time built in, it allows for a full cupping application as well as your usual chiropractic care, ensuring both techniques are delivered comfortably and without feeling rushed.
During your standard chiropractic appointments, you are welcome to request cupping, and Sarah may also suggest it if clinically appropriate. However, please note that cupping requires additional time to set up and apply, so within a standard appointment there is only time for: a small number of cups (usually fewer than 5), and one cupping technique. This ensures your chiropractic treatment still receives the time it needs. Cupping within standard sessions is also subject to your medical history and overall suitability.
Book an Appointment
Our principal chiropractor, Sarah is a cupping practitioner click to book online or call us on 01792 277211. Any questions? Why not try our contact form
