Cupping is an adjunctive technique often used with acupuncture, massage or herbal therapy.  It increases circulation, draws toxins out of the tissues, promotes healing, and helps to break up scar tissue and adhesions. 

Cups are applied to the skin with suction created by a vacuum and are generally comfortable feeling like a deep massage. 

Dark circles may appear where the cups were placed, they often look like bruises but are not, as the capillaries are not damaged and it is not painful. The marks resolve after a week and patients often feel the muscles relax and loosen.