Cupping is an ancient therapeutic practice that involves placing special cups on the skin to create suction. This suction pulls the skin and underlying tissues upward, which can promote healing and relieve tension. It’s commonly used in Traditional Chinese Medicine, as well as Middle Eastern and Eastern European healing systems.
💆♀️ How Cupping Works for Neck Pain
- Suction increases circulation: The negative pressure draws blood flow to the area, delivering oxygen and nutrients that help reduce inflammation and promote healing.
- Releases tight muscles: The suction helps to loosen knots and tension in the neck and shoulder muscles.
- Lymphatic drainage: Cupping can stimulate the lymphatic system, helping to remove toxins and stagnant fluids.
- Trigger point release: It can target tight areas that are hard to reach with massage, helping relieve deeper muscular issues.
- Nervous system calming: Many people report that cupping induces deep relaxation, reducing stress that often contributes to neck tightness.
🏺 Types of Cupping
- Dry cupping – Suction only, no blood is drawn.
- Wet cupping (Hijama) – Involves small incisions and controlled bloodletting (not usually used for neck pain).
- Moving cupping – The therapist glides the cup over the skin with oil, which is great for larger, tense areas.
✅ Benefits for Neck Pain
- Relieves tension headaches caused by neck stiffness
- Eases tech-neck or poor posture-related pain
- Supports healing after whiplash or neck strain
- Reduces reliance on painkillers or anti-inflammatories
