Chinese cupping — how it works and who it is for

Cupping is one of the oldest methods of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). At the AGAMED clinic in Szczecin we offer Chinese cupping as a treatment that supports relaxation and well-being. Below we calmly explain what it involves, what happens to the skin and who it is intended for.

Important: we treat Chinese cupping as a supportive and relaxing (wellness) treatment. It is not a healthcare service, it is not a diagnosis or treatment, and it does not replace a medical consultation. In case of complaints or illness, consult a doctor.

In brief

• A cup placed on the skin creates a vacuum effect (negative pressure) that lifts the skin and tissues, stimulating local circulation.
• The method comes from Traditional Chinese Medicine and has been used for centuries to loosen tense muscles.
• After the treatment, round red marks appear on the skin — this is a natural effect of negative pressure, not an injury; they usually disappear within a few days.
• The treatment supports relaxation, a sense of relief from tension and unwinding — at the AGAMED clinic we often combine it with hydrotherapy.

What does the cupping treatment involve?

The therapist places special cups on the body, inside which negative pressure is created. The vacuum effect gently lifts the skin and fascia, stimulating local blood and lymph flow in the area. Cups are most often placed on the back, neck and shoulders — that is, where tension accumulates.

According to TCM principles, the aim of the treatment is loosening the tissues, supporting circulation and restoring a sense of freedom of movement. Many people value cupping above all for the feeling of relief from tension and deep relaxation.

What do studies say?

Let's be honest: this is a traditional method and its scientific assessment is still ongoing. Reviews of studies and meta-analyses suggest that cupping may bring short-term relief from musculoskeletal pain complaints (e.g. in the back or neck area), although the quality of the available studies is sometimes limited and the effect is hard to separate from the relaxation effect. That is why we present cupping as support for well-being and relaxation, not as a method of treatment — and that is how it is worth approaching.

What sensations does the treatment give and where do the marks come from?

• During the treatment you feel a pulling and tightness of the skin and warmth — it is usually not painful.
• After the cups are removed, round red or bluish marks remain on the skin. This is an effect of negative pressure (petechiae), not a bruise from a blow — they fade naturally, most often within a few days.
• After the treatment it is worth hydrating well and giving your body a moment to rest.

Who is Chinese cupping for?

Cupping is most often chosen by people who want to loosen tense muscles, look after their circulation and simply recover — those who are physically active, work at a desk, or struggle with neck and back tension. We tailor the treatment individually to your needs.

Safety and contraindications

Performed by a trained therapist, the treatment is safe and the marks are temporary. There are, however, situations in which we do not apply cups — including: skin conditions at the treatment site (wounds, burns, infections, fungal infection, eczema, psoriasis in the active phase), blood clotting disorders (thrombosis, haemophilia), active untreated cancers, cardiorespiratory failure, active inflammation in autoimmune diseases, fever above 38°C, acute infections, the first trimester of pregnancy, uncontrolled hypertension, diabetes with sensation or healing disorders, severe anaemia, tuberculosis. We also avoid areas with varicose veins, and during menstruation the abdomen and lower back.

If in doubt or if you have chronic conditions, consult the treatment with your treating doctor.

Frequently asked questions

Does Chinese cupping hurt?

Usually not. You feel a pulling and tightness of the skin and warmth. We adjust the intensity of the negative pressure to your comfort.

Are the marks after cupping bruises?

They are round red marks caused by negative pressure (petechiae), not injuries like a bruise from a blow. They usually disappear within a few days.

How often can cupping be done?

Depending on your needs and how you feel — it is best to agree this individually during the visit.

Can cupping be combined with other treatments?

Yes. At the AGAMED clinic we offer, among others, a cupping + hydrotherapy package, which combines relaxation with recovery well.

Book Chinese cupping in Szczecin

At the AGAMED clinic in Szczecin we perform Chinese cupping as a treatment supporting relaxation and well-being — also in a package with hydrotherapy. See the details: Chinese cupping and naturotherapy. Book an appointment: contact or tel. 519 055 858.

The information in this article is educational and concerns the method as such; it is not a declaration of therapeutic effect.