What Is Cupping Therapy?
Cupping therapy is a hands-on soft tissue treatment that uses controlled suction to lift the skin and underlying tissues, helping to improve circulation, reduce muscular tension and support recovery.
At Fit2Function Clinics in Oxford Circus and Covent Garden, we use infrared cupping therapy, a modern version of traditional cupping that combines suction with therapeutic infrared light.
Cupping is used as part of an integrated treatment plan and is never applied in isolation or without clear reasoning.
It’s a safe, non-invasive technique ideal for clients looking to reduce stress, release deep muscular tension and enhance the impact of other therapies.
How Infrared Cupping Therapy Works
Infrared cupping works by gently lifting the skin and soft tissues, which:
- increases local blood flow
- encourages lymphatic drainage
- reduces muscle tone and guarding
- improves tissue mobility
The addition of infrared light helps warm the tissues and can support relaxation and circulation at a deeper level.
Unlike aggressive deep tissue techniques, cupping allows us to influence tight or sensitive areas without excessive pressure, making it useful where hands-on pressure alone may be uncomfortable or ineffective.
At our Oxford Circus and Covent Garden clinics, cupping is often used alongside Physiotherapy, sports massage and exercise rehabilitation.
Who Can Benefit From Cupping Therapy?
Cupping therapy can be helpful for people experiencing muscular tightness, restricted movement or stress-related tension.
It is commonly used for:
- neck and shoulder tightness
- lower back stiffness
- postural tension from desk work
- sports-related muscle soreness
- myofascial pain
At our Oxford Circus and Covent Garden clinic, we often use cupping therapy to support people with postural problems, repetitive strain injuries or those simply looking to enhance muscle recovery after intense activity. It’s a safe, adaptable therapy for a wide range of injuries and recovery goals.
What Does Cupping Therapy Involve?
During your session, your practitioner will apply specialised infrared cupping devices to targeted areas of the body.
The cups create gentle suction and deliver infrared light to the tissues underneath.
You may feel:
- a pulling or stretching sensation
- warmth from the infrared light
- a sense of deep relaxation
Most sessions last between 15 and 30 minutes and are often combined with other treatments such as manual therapy or Physiotherapy.
Treatment intensity and duration are always adjusted to suit your comfort and goals.
The process is non-invasive, customisable and suitable for clients of all fitness levels. At Fit2Function Oxford Circus and Covent Garden, every cupping session is tailored to your individual goals and comfort level.
Benefits and Outcomes of Cupping Therapy
Infrared cupping therapy offers a variety of physical and therapeutic benefits.
When used appropriately, infrared cupping therapy can:
- reduce muscular tension
- improve circulation
- support soft tissue recovery
- increase range of motion
- reduce stress-related tightness
Some clients may notice temporary circular marks on the skin where cups were applied.
At Fit2Function in Oxford Circus and Covent Garden, we use infrared cupping to complement hands on treatment, shockwave therapy, laser therapy and exercise rehabilitation.
We have found that our clients recover faster, move more freely and have fewer setbacks in their recovery.
Our goal is not just short-term relief, but to help you move better and reduce the likelihood of symptoms returning.
Meet Our Multidisciplinary Team Behind Your Recovery
Each of our practitioners are qualified in the safe use of infrared cupping and experienced in combining it with other manual therapies for the best outcomes.
Cupping Therapy FAQs
Is cupping therapy painful?
Cupping should not be painful. You may feel a pulling or tight sensation during treatment, but most clients find it relaxing. The suction level can also be adjusted to your comfort.
How many sessions will I need?
This depends on your condition and goals. Some clients benefit from one or two sessions for relief, while others may include cupping regularly as part of ongoing therapy.
How long does each cupping therapy session take?
A typical cupping session lasts between 15 and 30 minutes, depending on the number of areas treated and whether it’s combined with other therapies.
Are there any side effects for cupping therapy?
Side effects are minimal. Mild soreness or circular marks may appear after treatment but usually fade within a few days.
How soon will I see results from shockwave therapy?
Many clients feel a noticeable release of tension after the first session. More chronic conditions may take longer to respond.
Will cupping therapy leave marks or bruises, and how long do they last?
Yes, cupping can leave round marks or light bruising where suction was applied. These marks are harmless and usually fade within 3-7 days.
How should I prepare for my cupping therapy session?
Wear loose, comfortable clothing, allowing us to access the areas that need treatment. Please also stay well hydrated before and after each treatment session.