What is Cupping Therapy?

Cupping is a form of therapy that involves placing special cups on the skin to create suction. This technique helps to increase blood flow, reduce muscle tension, and promote healing. Physiotherapists often use cupping alongside other treatments such as manual therapy and exercise rehabilitation to enhance recovery.

Types of Cupping Used in Physiotherapy

  • Dry Cupping – Suction is created on the skin using silicone or plastic cups without making any incisions.

  • Wet Cupping – A more traditional method that involves slight incisions on the skin before applying suction, though this is less commonly used in physiotherapy.

  • Moving Cupping – The therapist glides the cups over muscles and soft tissues to improve mobility and circulation.

How Cupping Therapy Helps with Recovery

Cupping therapy provides a range of benefits, making it a valuable addition to physiotherapy treatment plans.

Some of its key advantages include:

1. Pain Relief & Muscle Relaxation

  • Reduces muscle tightness by improving blood circulation to affected areas.

  • Helps alleviate chronic pain conditions such as lower back pain, neck stiffness, and shoulder tension.

2. Improved Circulation & Healing

  • Increases oxygen and nutrient flow to injured tissues, promoting faster recovery.

  • Helps reduce inflammation and swelling in soft tissues.

3. Enhanced Mobility & Flexibility

  • Releases fascial restrictions, allowing greater freedom of movement.

  • Beneficial for athletes recovering from training-induced muscle fatigue.

4. Stress & Tension Reduction

  • Encourages relaxation by reducing nervous system tension.

  • Can help with headaches and stress-related muscle tightness.

Who Can Benefit from Cupping Therapy?

Cupping therapy is suitable for a wide range of individuals, including:

  • Athletes – Enhances recovery and performance by reducing muscle soreness and improving flexibility.

  • Office Workers – Helps relieve postural tension from prolonged sitting.

  • Chronic Pain Sufferers – Provides relief from conditions such as fibromyalgia and arthritis.

  • Injury Recovery Patients – Supports rehabilitation from muscle strains, joint stiffness, and sports injuries.

Cupping Therapy at Rehab Co Physio in Auckland & Wellington

At Rehab Co, our trained physiotherapists use cupping therapy as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. Our approach includes:

  • Personalised Treatment Plans – Customised to suit your specific condition and recovery goals.

  • Combination Therapy – Integrating cupping with physiotherapy techniques for maximum benefit.

  • Safe & Professional Application – Ensuring effective treatment with minimal discomfort.

Book Your Cupping Therapy Session Today

If you're looking to experience the benefits of cupping therapy as part of your physiotherapy treatment, Rehab Co is here to help. Whether you're dealing with pain, injury, or mobility issues, our expert team in our clinics across Auckland and Wellington is ready to assist you.

📍 Book an appointment today at RehabCoPhysio.com and take the next step in your recovery journey!