Cupping Therapy in Portland: Benefits, Types, and What to Expect

Cupping went mainstream when Michael Phelps showed up at the Olympics covered in circular marks. But Chinese medicine has used cupping for over 2,000 years — long before it was a social media moment. Here's everything you need to know about this remarkable technique.

What Is Cupping?

Cupping uses glass, silicone, or bamboo cups to create suction on the skin. The suction pulls the skin and superficial fascia upward, increasing blood flow to the area, releasing tight muscles, and drawing out stagnation. It's the opposite of massage — instead of pressing down, it lifts up.

I use glass cups with a flame technique (fire cupping) for stationary cups, and silicone cups for sliding cupping across larger areas. Both feel deeply relaxing — like a reverse deep-tissue massage.

What It Treats

Cupping is most effective for back pain, neck and shoulder tension, respiratory conditions (asthma, bronchitis, common colds), and sports injuries. It's also excellent for breaking up scar tissue and fascial adhesions.

In a 2012 review of 550 clinical studies, cupping showed consistent benefit for musculoskeletal pain, especially when combined with acupuncture. A 2017 systematic review confirmed effectiveness for neck pain and low back pain specifically.

About the Marks

Cupping often leaves circular marks on the skin — ranging from light pink to deep purple. These are not bruises. They're the result of blood and lymph being drawn to the surface from deeper tissues. The darker the mark, the more stagnation was present in that area.

The marks fade in 3 to 7 days, faster for lighter marks. They feel slightly tender for 24 to 48 hours. Most patients consider them a badge of honor — especially when the pain relief is significant.

Sliding Cupping

Sliding cupping (also called running cupping) uses oil on the skin so cups glide across large muscle groups. It's excellent for overall back tension and feels like a deep, warming massage. I often use this for patients who aren't ready for stationary cups or who want broad coverage along the back muscles.

Cupping and Acupuncture Together

Combining acupuncture and cupping in one session amplifies the effects of both. Acupuncture addresses deeper systemic patterns while cupping works the superficial layers. For pain conditions especially, this combination often produces faster results than either technique alone.