Cupping (Ventosa)
Gentle suction to ease tight, tired muscles.
Cupping — known locally as ventosa — uses round cups to create gentle suction on the skin, drawing up the tissue beneath to relieve tension and encourage circulation.
A comforting, hands-on therapy — offered as an add-on to an acupuncture or massage session, or as a standalone treatment with infrared light.
Why it matters in TCM
TCM views stagnation — of blood and qi — as a source of pain and heaviness. The suction is believed to draw stagnation to the surface so the area can recover.
Patients commonly describe relief from muscular tightness and a feeling of lightness afterward. Temporary circular marks are normal and fade within a few days.
What to expect
- ✓Cups are applied to the back or shoulders for several minutes.
- ✓You feel a firm but comfortable pulling sensation.
- ✓Round marks may appear and fade naturally over a few days.
Good for
Good to know
Marks can range from light pink to a deeper reddish-purple, are round to match the cups, and typically fade naturally within a few days — timing varies from person to person. Keep the treated area covered and warm for the rest of the day, avoid direct sun, very hot showers, or swimming on the marked area until it fades, and drink water and rest if you can. Please contact us if you notice blistering, broken skin, or increasing pain, swelling, warmth, or discharge at the site.
Frequently asked questions
What is cupping (ventosa), and will it leave marks?
Cupping — known locally as ventosa — uses round cups to create gentle suction on the skin, encouraging circulation and easing tension. Temporary circular marks are normal and typically fade within a few days.
Can I get cupping on its own, or only with acupuncture?
Both. Cupping is offered as an add-on to an acupuncture or massage session, or as a standalone treatment with infrared light. Ask at booking which option suits you.
This page is for general information and is not medical advice. Your doctor will recommend what’s appropriate for you during a consultation.