Cupping Therapy in Clifton, NJ

Clifton Physical Therapy

Cupping Therapy in Clifton, NJ

What Is Cupping Therapy?

Cupping therapy is an ancient healing technique used to reduce pain, improve circulation, and promote relaxation. During the treatment, a therapist places special cups—made of glass, silicone, or plastic—on specific areas of your body such as the back, shoulders, or legs. The cups create gentle suction that lifts your skin and underlying tissues, helping to draw blood flow to the surface.

This suction helps release muscle tension, stimulate lymphatic drainage, and remove metabolic waste from the body. Many patients describe the sensation as a deep, soothing stretch rather than discomfort. Depending on your needs, cupping can be used alone or in combination with other physical therapy techniques to support faster recovery and better mobility.

Cupping therapy isn’t just a passing trend—it has a rich history and has been used for centuries as part of traditional healing systems across different cultures.

Where Did Cupping Therapy Originate?

Cupping therapy has deep roots in ancient Egyptian, Chinese, and Middle Eastern medicine. One of the oldest references to cupping appears in the Ebers Papyrus from 1550 B.C., where ancient Egyptians described using suction cups to treat pain, fever, and inflammation.

From Egypt, the practice spread to ancient Greece and China, where it was considered a vital part of natural medicine. In traditional Chinese medicine, cupping became closely associated with acupuncture and was used to balance energy flow or Qi within the body.

In Islamic culture, the therapy is known as Hijama, and the Prophet Muhammad recommended it for maintaining health and preventing disease. Over time, the materials evolved—from hollow animal horns and bamboo to modern glass or silicone cups—but the purpose remained the same: to restore circulation, detoxify the body, and relieve pain naturally.

Source: WebMD

What Are the Types of Cupping Therapy?

It’s helpful to understand that there are two main types of cupping therapy:

1. Dry Cupping

Dry cupping is the most common and non-invasive form of treatment. The therapist creates suction either manually or with a pump, allowing the cups to gently pull on your skin. Cups are typically left in place for 5–10 minutes, depending on the treatment area and your tolerance.

The process encourages blood flow, loosens tight muscles, and helps clear stagnation that may be contributing to pain or stiffness. Some therapists also use massage cupping, where the cups are moved across the skin in gliding motions using oil or lotion. This combination feels similar to a deep-tissue massage and helps release fascia and improve flexibility.

2. Wet Cupping (Hijama)

Wet cupping is a traditional method that involves light skin incisions to release small amounts of blood after the initial suction. While this method is common in traditional medicine, it’s less frequently practiced in modern physical therapy settings due to its invasive nature.

At our clinic, we focus on dry cupping, ensuring a clean, comfortable, and therapeutic experience without breaking the skin.

How Does Cupping Therapy Work?

Cupping therapy works by creating a vacuum effect that draws blood toward the surface of the skin. This process increases circulation to the treated area, allowing oxygen and nutrients to reach sore or injured tissues more efficiently. It also encourages the lymphatic system to flush out toxins and metabolic waste products that may cause inflammation or muscle stiffness.

From a physiological standpoint, the suction stimulates sensory nerves and triggers a relaxation response. Many patients report feeling lighter, looser, and more relaxed after a session.

Cupping is often used to manage conditions such as:

Who Should Avoid Cupping Therapy?

Although cupping therapy is generally safe when performed by trained professionals, it may not be suitable for everyone. Individuals with certain medical conditions or sensitivities should avoid the treatment or consult their healthcare provider before trying it.

You should not receive cupping therapy if you:

  • Are pregnant (due to limited research on safety during pregnancy)

  • Have a bleeding disorder such as hemophilia or anemia

  • Take blood-thinning medications

  • Have a pacemaker or cardiovascular disease

  • Suffer from severe eczema, psoriasis, or open wounds

  • Have a history of blood clots, deep vein thrombosis (DVT), or recent strokes

  • Experience seizures or epilepsy

Source: Cleveland Clinic

What Are the Benefits of Cupping Therapy?

Cupping therapy offers a wide range of potential health benefits, both physical and psychological. Although modern scientific studies are still exploring how it works, thousands of years of practice and growing clinical interest point to several positive effects.

1. Pain Relief and Muscle Recovery
Cupping promotes increased blood flow to sore or overworked muscles, helping to release deep-seated tension. It’s especially beneficial for athletes and individuals recovering from injuries. Many patients notice reduced stiffness and improved range of motion after a few sessions.

2. Improved Circulation and Detoxification
By drawing blood to the treated area, cupping stimulates microcirculation and supports the body’s natural detox process. This may help remove metabolic waste and inflammatory substances that contribute to discomfort or fatigue.

3. Reduced Inflammation
The therapy is believed to activate the immune response and reduce local inflammation. This makes it helpful for conditions such as arthritis, tendonitis, or chronic joint pain.

4. Stress Reduction and Relaxation
The gentle suction and warmth of cupping activate the parasympathetic nervous system, which helps calm the body and mind. Many patients describe feeling deeply relaxed and mentally refreshed afterward.

5. Support for Skin and Respiratory Health
Some evidence suggests that cupping may help with acne, eczema, or bronchial congestion. By improving circulation and lymphatic flow, it supports healthier skin and better oxygen exchange.

While more scientific studies are needed to fully explain its mechanisms, many people experience meaningful relief and a greater sense of well-being with consistent sessions.

What to Expect During a Cupping Session

Your therapist will begin by discussing your health history and treatment goals. Once the areas for cupping are identified, they’ll apply a small amount of oil or lotion to help the cups glide smoothly over your skin.

For dry cupping, the therapist creates suction using a pump or gentle heat inside each cup. You’ll feel a mild pulling sensation as the skin is lifted. The cups remain in place for about 5–10 minutes, depending on the treatment plan.

If you’re receiving massage cupping, the therapist moves the cups in circular or linear motions, similar to a deep-tissue massage. This technique helps release tight fascia and encourages fluid movement.

After the session, the treated areas may appear slightly red or bruised, which is a normal response to increased circulation. The marks typically fade within a few days. Drinking plenty of water afterward helps flush out toxins released during therapy.

We combine traditional healing wisdom with modern physical therapy methods to help you feel your best, naturally and safely. To book your cupping therapy appointment or learn more about personalized treatment options, call (973)-241-1338 today.

What others are saying

"I recently had ankle surgery and Clifton PT has been nothing short of amazing! My goal was to get back to playing soccer as quick as possible before the college season started and so far I'm right on track. Izzy, Bianca, Tiff, and John have gone above and beyond to make sure I'm back to 100%. Couldn't be more grateful to be treated by the best team ever!." - Nat Rufino

All the therapists at Clifton Physical Therapy are awesome, but I spend most of my time with Izzy and Bianca—and they’ve been amazing. They’re enthusiastic, knowledgeable, and always take the time to explain what I’m doing and what my issues are. Their positive energy and clear communication make a big difference in my recovery." - Bryan Tompkins

"Going Clifton physical therapy was one of the best thing that came out of my back pain! Every single staff member is amazing and cares for your recovery! I have been with them for the past couple of months and now continuing their workout program! I can’t recommend them enough! Tiffany, Izzy, Bianca and everyone else I have worked with there! Can’t rave about them enough!!." - Monica Mehta

"Clifton Physical Therapy has been a great place for me to heal my meniscus tear. The staff is very knowledgeable and friendly, and has been extremely helpful in guiding me through my recovery. I highly recommend their services.." - Kelly Bevando


Clifton Physical Therapy


✆ Phone (appointments): (973)-241-1338


Address: 1059 Bloomfield Ave, Clifton, NJ 07012