• Muscle pain and tightness: Eases soreness and relaxes muscles.

• Back and neck pain: Helps with long-lasting pain.

• Arthritis: May lower swelling and improve joint movement.

• Breathing problems: Can ease asthma, bronchitis, and congestion.

• Migraines and headaches: Might reduce how often and how bad they are.

• Digestion issues: Could improve digestion and lower bloating.

• Anxiety and stress: Helps you relax and feel less stressed.

• Sports injuries: Aids healing by boosting blood flow and loosening muscles.

Always talk to a doctor before trying cupping to make sure it’s safe for you.

Cupping is typically not painful. During a cupping session, suction is applied to the skin, creating a pulling sensation that some people find relaxing or mildly uncomfortable. Most individuals experience a feeling of tightness or mild pressure rather than pain. If you have sensitive skin or certain medical conditions, it’s best to consult with a healthcare professional before trying cupping.

Cupping therapy is generally safe for most people, but it may not be suitable for everyone. Individuals with certain medical conditions such as bleeding disorders, skin infections, or those who are pregnant should consult a healthcare provider before undergoing cupping therapy. Additionally, people taking blood-thinning medications or with sensitive skin may need to avoid or modify the treatment.

To prepare for a cupping session, follow these guidelines:

1. Hydrate Well
   Drink plenty of water before your appointment to help your body flush out toxins released during the session.

2. Avoid Heavy Meals
   Eat a light meal at least an hour before your session. Avoid heavy or greasy foods that might cause discomfort while lying down.

3. Wear Comfortable Clothing
   Choose loose-fitting clothes that can be easily rolled up or removed to expose the areas where cups will be applied.

4. Avoid Caffeine and Alcohol
   Reduce or eliminate caffeine and alcohol intake for at least 24 hours prior, as these can dehydrate you.

5. Communicate Health Conditions
   Share any medical conditions, skin issues, or if you are pregnant to ensure the treatment is safe and tailored to you.

6. Avoid Skin Products on the Treatment Area
   Do not apply lotions, oils, or creams on the skin where cupping will be done as these can interfere with suction.

7. Plan for Rest
   Cupping may cause mild soreness or bruising. Schedule your session when you can rest afterward if needed.

By taking these steps, you’ll help ensure a safe and effective cupping experience.

Cupping marks typically last between 3 to 10 days. The duration depends on factors such as the intensity of suction, the individual's skin sensitivity, and how frequently cupping is performed. Darker, more intense marks tend to take longer to fade, while lighter marks may disappear within a few days. Proper hydration and moisturizing the area can help speed up the healing process. If marks persist beyond two weeks or are accompanied by pain or swelling, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional.

The frequency of cupping treatments depends on your health goals, condition being treated, and individual response to therapy. For general wellness and maintenance, many people find that getting cupping once every 3 to 4 weeks is sufficient. If you are treating a specific issue such as muscle pain, tension, or recovery from an injury, sessions may be recommended once or twice a week initially.

It's important to pay attention to how your body responds after each treatment. Overdoing cupping can cause skin irritation or bruising, so spacing sessions to allow for adequate healing is advised. I can tailor the treatment frequency based on your specific needs and monitor your progress safely.

A typical cupping session lasts between 20 to 30 minutes. The duration can vary depending on the individual's condition and the practitioner's approach. In some cases, cups may be left on the skin for as little as 5 minutes or as long as 15 to 20 minutes, but the overall session, including preparation and aftercare, generally takes about half an hour.

At Upton Wellness, I use several types of cups, each designed for different techniques and purposes:

1. Glass Cups
   Traditional and commonly used, glass cups create suction through heat. Practitioners briefly heat the cup's interior with a flame and then quickly place it on the skin. As the air cools, it creates a vacuum effect, pulling the skin upward.

2. Plastic Cups
   These are modern alternatives that use a pump mechanism to create suction instead of fire. They are lightweight, durable, and often preferred for safety and ease of use, especially in clinical settings.

3. Silicone Cups
   Flexible and soft, silicone cups are squeezed to expel the air before placing on the skin. They allow for easier movement along the skin, making them ideal for a massage-like cupping technique known as "sliding cupping."

4. Bamboo Cups
   Less common today, bamboo cups have been traditionally used in some cultures. They rely on heat to create suction and are valued for their natural materials and sustainability.

Each cup type offers unique benefits and may be chosen based on the therapy style, practitioner preference, or patient comfort.