Yes, it leaves marks
Cupping
Glass cups on the back, using a hand pump rather than flame. Many people like how it feels. It leaves round marks for up to a week, and the evidence is poor.
Athletes have made this look more scientific than it is. Reviews are mostly small and of poor quality. Many people tell us it feels good on tight shoulders, and that is a reasonable thing to pay for, provided you know that is what you are paying for.
We use glass cups and a hand pump and do not use fire. The cups stay on for five to ten minutes. The skin underneath goes dark red or purple, and it usually fades within a week. It should not hurt. We will not do wet cupping, which involves cutting the skin.
We will not cup over broken skin, varicose veins or a pregnant belly, or for anyone taking blood thinners or who bruises easily without talking to their doctor first. Keep the marks in mind if you are going swimming, or to a wedding.
What is included
- Glass cups, cleaned and sterilised between patients
- A hand pump, with no flame
- Five to ten minutes on the area
- Advice on what to expect from the marks
What it costs
Cupping is £30 added to a session or £40 on its own, for half an hour. There is no block booking. You pay for each session, and we review at the fourth. The course page works it out with the evidence next to it.
Questions about cupping
Does it draw out toxins?
No. There is no evidence that it does. The marks are bruising from small blood vessels.
Does it hurt?
It feels like a firm pull. If it hurts, tell us and we will let some of the suction out.
Book a first appointment.
Seventy-five minutes for £65. We ask what your doctor has said, tell you what the research says, and agree a stopping point before a single needle goes in.