Cupping therapy is one of the oldest and most widely used techniques in traditional Chinese Medicine. It involves placing glass or silicone cups on the skin to create a therapeutic suction effect, which lifts the fascia and underlying tissues, improving circulation and releasing stagnation.
At Rozelle Acupuncture, cupping is used both as a standalone therapy and as an adjunct to acupuncture treatment. The technique has become increasingly recognised in mainstream healthcare and sports medicine following high-profile use by elite athletes.
Cupping is particularly effective for: back, neck, and shoulder pain and tension, respiratory conditions including coughs, colds, and bronchitis, stress and nervous system regulation, and sports recovery and injury prevention.
The 'bruising' marks that sometimes appear after cupping are not bruises; they are petechiae, caused by increased blood flow to the area. They typically fade within 3–7 days and are considered a positive indicator of local stagnation being released.