Although it may seem like a complicated and coordinated therapy, cupping is actually a simple technique that uses basic principles of physics to correct imbalances in the body.

At the Muscle Doc Method, we use both glass cups for “fire cupping” and manual suction cups. With glass cups, we safely use a flame to create a vacuum in the cup before applying that cup to the skin and muscle. This vacuum lifts the skin, fascia, and superficial muscles to allow for increased circulation in the targeted areas. Manual suction cups work similarly, but a pump is used to create the vacuum rather than a flame.

While the cups are in place, old and stagnant blood is drawn out of the small vessels of the muscles and skin and new blood can flush in. Old blood shows up as red or purple marks on the skin post-cupping and is later cleared by the body. This provides a deep detoxifying effect while also allowing fresh, oxygenated blood to heal and nourish tired, sore muscles.