It is a technique used to help relieve muscle tension, stiffness and heaviness in areas such as the back, shoulders, neck and legs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It can be applied using fixed or sliding suction cups and is often integrated with Acupuncture<\/a> or in combination with Tui Na Therapeutic Massage<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n It is well known for leaving \"circular marks\" on people's backs. Although that is not the point, the controlled suction techniques over the muscles and tissues can trigger such temporary response. As sore it may look on the outside, those who try it immediately feel relief. For most our patients - this is the best part of the treatment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Before any treatment, we'll go through all your symptoms, areas of tension and test your mobility.<\/p>\n\n\n\n We'll also take in consideration your medical history and possible contra-indications, such as skin rashes, sensitivity or even pain threshold. Cupping shouldn't be applied in case of extreme sensitivity to touch.<\/p>\n\n\n\n There are mainly two cupping techniques:<\/p>\n\n\n\n The application usually lasts between 5 and 10 minutes, depending on the region treated, the intensity chosen and the objective of the session.<\/p>\n\n\n\n At Cl\u00ednica Sintra Sa\u00fade, cupping is typically combined with Acupuncture<\/a>, massage or other manual treatments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n After application, we assessed the pain, tension and limited movements again. This way, we understand how the body responded to the treatment and if there are any areas that still need attention.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In general, cupping therapy is recommended for:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Treatments are adjusted to the individual. Cupping is safe for both months old babies to our senior patients (and we have a few!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n The suction effect induced by the cups can leave temporary circular marks on the skin.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The tonality of these marks depends on several factors:<\/p>\n\n\n\n We believe in science. So, first of all, marks do not reflect \"toxins\". In treatment, we often compare sliding suction cups to a comb that runs through the hair. In areas where there is greater tension or sensitivity, we often feel more resistance to the suction cup's movement. Interestingly, these are also the areas that tend to leave more noticeable marks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n These marks result from the response of the skin and small vessels to suction. They do not necessarily mean the presence of \u201ctoxins\u201d or stagnant blood, but they often coincide with areas that were more sensitive and tense before treatment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Cupping marks typically disappear gradually over a few days. Therefore, if you have an event, are planning a trip to the beach or any activity where you do not want to show visible marks, you must inform the professional before the treatment. However, we do like to say, it is fine to sunbathe or swim after the treatments - there is no down time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Whether you're a runner, a gym goer, a swimmer, a baller<\/a> or a padel player, you've definitely felt heavy muscles after a more demanding training or workout.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In such cases, which we love to treat, cupping therapy can support recovery and help reduce the feeling of muscle stiffness. However, it does not replace rest, hydration, proper nutrition, or progressive rehabilitation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n It can also do wonders for those who spend many hours sitting at the computer. Applying sliding cups to the trapezius, shoulders and back can help relieve the feeling of heaviness accumulated throughout the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n When there is persistent pain or limited movement, it is important to understand whether we're dealing with muscular or structural changes. For example, not all pain in the upper back and shoulder region has the same origin. Learn more in our article about the common causes of shoulder pain<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\nCupping in 3 steps:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Patient assessment<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Cupping techniques<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Cupping is not a standalone treatment<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
What is cupping used for<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Why does cupping leave marks?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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![\"evolu\u00e7\u00e3o](\"https:\/\/www.sintrasaude.pt\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Marcas-de-ventosa-1024x576.png\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nIntegrating cupping with training, performance and wellbeing routines<\/h2>\n\n\n\n