Cupping Therapy
What is Cupping Therapy
Cupping therapy is an ancient healing practice that has been used for centuries to relieve muscle tension, improve circulation, and promote overall well-being. At Soho Osteopathy Clinic, we incorporate this time-tested technique to help alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and enhance mobility. By creating gentle suction on the skin, cupping encourages blood flow to targeted areas, supporting the body’s natural healing process. Whether you're seeking relief from chronic pain, muscle tightness, or stress-related tension, cupping therapy can be a powerful addition to your wellness routine.
Dry Cupping & Functional Cupping Therapy
At Soho Osteopathy Clinic, we specialise in dry cupping and functional cupping, effective techniques designed to relieve muscle tension, enhance mobility, and support recovery. Unlike traditional wet cupping, dry cupping uses suction without incisions to increase blood flow and promote natural healing. Functional cupping goes a step further by incorporating movement and stretching while the cups are applied, allowing for deeper fascial release and improved joint mobility. Whether you're experiencing chronic pain, muscle tightness, or sports injuries, our cupping therapy is a powerful tool to aid in your recovery and overall well-being.
Areas Treated with Cupping Therapy
At Soho Osteopathy Clinic, cupping can be applied to various areas of the body, depending on your specific needs. Common treatment areas include:
Back & Shoulders
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Helps relieve tension, reduce stiffness, and improve posture.
Neck
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Alleviates tightness and discomfort from stress or poor posture.
Lower Back
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Supports recovery from aches, strains, and chronic pain.
Abdomen
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Helps improve circulation, reduce bloating, and ease muscle tension.
Hips & Glutes
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Enhances mobility and reduces muscle tightness.
Arms & Forearms
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Beneficial for conditions like tennis elbow and repetitive strain injuries.
Legs & Calves
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Aids in muscle recovery, improves circulation, and reduces soreness, especially for athletes.
As shown above, the red areas are the most common locations for cupping therapy. The yellow areas are still targeted, but less frequently. Our cupping therapy is customised to your needs, ensuring optimal results for pain relief, mobility, and overall well-being.
When to Consider Cupping Therapy
Cupping therapy can be highly effective for a variety of conditions and concerns. Consider cupping if you are experiencing:
Muscle Tension & Stiffness
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Especially in the back, shoulders, or neck, where tightness and discomfort are common.
Chronic Pain
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For conditions like lower back pain, joint pain, or muscle soreness that hasn't improved with other treatments.
Post-Workout Recovery
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To help reduce muscle soreness and promote faster recovery after intense physical activity or exercise.
Stress & Tension
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If you experience stress-related tension in areas like the neck, shoulders, or upper back.
Poor Circulation
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Cupping can improve blood flow to targeted areas, aiding in overall circulation.
Sports Injuries
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To assist with muscle strain, ligament injuries, or improving flexibility and mobility.
Digestive Discomfort
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Cupping on the abdomen can help with bloating, constipation, or digestive issues.
Cupping therapy can be used as a preventive treatment or as part of a rehabilitation program, depending on your needs. Our therapists at Soho Osteopathy Clinic will be able to advise you on which areas of the body should be targeted to provide the most effective relief for your specific condition.
Infection Control in Dry Cupping and Functional Cupping
Dry cupping and functional cupping offer significant advantages over other cupping methods in terms of infection control. Unlike wet cupping, which involves making small incisions in the skin, these techniques do not break the skin barrier, drastically reducing the risk of infection. The absence of open wounds eliminates exposure to bloodborne pathogens and minimises the need for additional sterilisation measures. Furthermore, practitioners can maintain high hygiene standards by using disinfected cups, practicing proper hand hygiene, and ensuring the treatment area is clean and intact. Because dry and functional cupping rely solely on suction and movement without invasive procedures, they are inherently safer and more effective at preventing infections compared to other cupping techniques.
Understanding the Risks: Why Professional Training Matters
While dry cupping and functional cupping are generally safe, there are some minor risks. Temporary side effects such as mild bruising, skin irritation, or slight discomfort can occur due to the suction effect on the skin. However, the risk of infection is extremely low when proper hygiene protocols are followed. At Soho Osteopathy Clinic, all staff are highly trained professionals who adhere to strict infection control and safety standards. They ensure that all equipment is properly cleaned, that the skin is inspected and prepared before treatment, and that patients are screened for any contraindications. Their expertise minimises any potential risks, making dry and functional cupping a safe and effective therapy for pain relief and mobility enhancement.
Proper Aftercare for Optimal Recovery
After a dry or functional cupping session, proper aftercare is essential to maximise benefits and prevent any minor side effects. Patients may experience mild redness or bruising, which is a normal response to the suction and typically fades within a few days to 3 weeks. To aid recovery, it’s recommended to stay hydrated, avoid excessive heat (such as hot showers or saunas) for 24 hours, and gently moisturise the skin if needed. Strenuous exercise should also be avoided immediately after treatment to allow the body to adjust. At Soho Osteopathy Clinic, practitioners provide personalised aftercare advice to ensure the best results, helping patients feel comfortable and recover quickly while minimising any potential discomfort.
Dry and functional cupping offer numerous benefits with minimal risks when performed by trained professionals. At Soho Osteopathy Clinic, our expert practitioners prioritise safety, hygiene, and personalised care to ensure the best possible experience. With proper infection control, skilled application, and thorough aftercare guidance, you can enjoy the therapeutic effects of cupping with confidence. If you're ready to relieve tension, improve mobility, and enhance your overall well-being, book your appointment today and experience the benefits of professional cupping therapy.
How to Find our Clinic
You can find us at 162-168 Regent St, Linen Hall, W1B 5TB, located between Oxford Circus and Piccadilly Circus, with their respective tube stations nearby.
