
Those who remember Michael Phelps’ performance in the 2016 Rio Olympics will remember the iconic photograph taken of him post-swim. He had circular marks all across his shoulders, and some people thought they were cigar burns or perfectly circular bruises! But no, it was just cupping massage therapy.
Coupled with massage therapy, cupping is a safe and traditional treatment for resolving chronic pain and muscle tightness. Let’s discuss its benefits and how it works.
How Does Cupping Suction Therapy Work?

What does cupping do? It involves applying cups made of ceramic, glass, or bamboo to specific areas of the body, such as the legs, shoulders, or stomach, to create suction and stimulate healing.
Cupping creates negative pressure, lifting the skin and muscle fibers to decompress the tissue and increase blood flow. Unlike massage, which applies direct pressure, cupping suction therapy relieves tension and promotes healing.
Post-session, you may notice temporary red marks that fade within a week or two. Your therapist may recommend staying hydrated, warm, and rested to support your body. Some people feel tired or slightly under the weather as their body releases toxins, but this is a normal part of the process.
Benefits of Cupping Massage Therapy

If you want the best full-body massage with cupping, you need to know its benefits, which include:
Improves Circulation
Cupping therapy, along with foot and body massage, stimulates blood flow to targeted areas, easing muscle tension, promoting cellular healing, and even reducing cellulite appearance.
Encourages Tissues to Release Toxins
While your body has natural detox systems, modern life can overwhelm them with toxins. Fire cupping therapy helps by stimulating blood flow, which aids your lymphatic system in flushing out built-up toxins. Consider trying cupping massage therapy to experience the benefits firsthand at Palais France Massage.
Reduces Anxiety
As the cups glide across your skin, they activate your body’s relaxation response, calming your nervous system, slowing your heart rate, and promoting deep relaxation.
Clears Congestion

One of the fire cupping benefits includes relieving respiratory congestion caused by cold, bronchitis, or asthma by breaking up and expelling mucus, and increasing oxygen-rich blood flow to the lungs and respiratory muscles. Facial cupping can also help alleviate sinus congestion.
Improves Varicose and Spider Veins
Varicose veins occur when faulty valves cause blood to pool, leading to twisted, bulging veins. Our Richmond massage therapy establishment can help by increasing blood flow and oxygen to the affected areas, reducing their appearance. While results may be noticeable after one session, a series of treatments is typically needed for lasting improvement.
Should You Get Cupping Therapy?
Cupping is not suitable for everyone, particularly those with certain health conditions such as organ failure, pacemakers, blood disorders, heart disease, or those taking blood thinners. It’s also not recommended for pregnant individuals or those with open wounds or infections.
If you’re looking for a complete massage experience with cupping therapy near me, book the relief you seek with us today!