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 ★★★★★
  • Kieran Carr ★★★★★
    I’ve been going to Ryan on a monthly basis for about a year now. I suffer with pain and tightness in my neck, shoulders and back due to bad posture. Since having my regular visits, my pain has subsided and with Ryan’s expertise advice my posture has also improved massively. Ryan is very professional, knowledgable, experienced and always really friendly. I would highly recommend.
    04/11/24 — 9 months ago
  • Kyrome Adams ★★★★★
    Every half-term, I treat myself to a sports therapy massage with Ryan, and it’s something I genuinely look forward to. I often struggle with tightness in my upper back, but Ryan’s expertise always leaves me feeling completely rejuvenated. The experience is incredibly relaxing as well. Highly recommended – I’d give it 100% every time!
    03/11/24 — 9 months ago
  • Chris Kay ★★★★★
    Just had my first visit to Ryan, it was a great treatment hitting the areas I’d notified him that were of concern to me. Ryan also comes across as a well educated and thoroughly nice guy who easily puts clients at ease. Most importantly he also works to clients pain thresholds to ensure any treatment is not too uncomfortable. It was an easy decision to rebook. 👍
    05/12/24 — 8 months ago
  • shahid aslam ★★★★★
    I have been visiting Ryan regularly to help manage my back and muscle issues, and I can honestly say it’s made a huge difference. Ryan is incredibly skilled and always tailors each session to address any specific areas of issues I have or pain, which has been essential in keeping me physically fit and able to perform at my active job. The atmosphere is calm, professional, and welcoming, which makes every visit a great experience. Highly recommend to anyone.
    01/11/24 — 9 months ago
  • James Kirrane ★★★★★
    Great service. I have a rotator cuff issue and a frozen shoulder. Ryan gave me a deep tissue massage which loosened up the muscles considerably and gave me a number of stretches and exercises to assist me in coping with the issue. Highly recommended.
    16/07/25 — 3 weeks ago