Cupping has become a popular recovery tool for everyone from desk-bound professionals to competitive athletes, thanks to its ability to ease tight muscles and support healing. This ancient therapy utilizes suction, typically through specialized cups placed on the skin, to enhance circulation, alleviate muscle tension, and promote recovery in areas of the body that are irritated or overworked. Many people with chronic pain, stiffness, or mobility limitations find cupping to be especially helpful, and it’s often used in conjunction with other treatments rather than on its own. In a physical therapy setting, cupping can be a strategic approach to enhance blood flow, soothe irritated muscles, and support long-term pain relief. At Pro Motion Physical Therapy, patients benefit from clinicians with advanced training in cupping techniques, ensuring the treatment is targeted, evidence-informed, and tailored to each person’s needs. Read on to discover the benefits and risks of cupping, and whether it is right for you.

Cupping is a complementary therapy that involves suctioning the skin with cups made of silicone, plastic, glass, bamboo, metal, or rubber. Originating in Egypt and Macedonia around 5,500 years ago, this method has recently started gaining popularity in the United States.

Many people use cupping to improve blood flow, decrease toxins, and reduce pain. In some cultures, cupping has spiritual and religious significance.

Although cupping therapy has existed for centuries, there is limited research on how it works and its effectiveness. However, many people, especially athletes, find it beneficial.

Types of Cupping

There are two primary types of cupping: dry cupping and wet cupping. Each type has several variations.

Dry cupping involves pulling your skin into the cup without cutting or burning it. With wet cupping, a practitioner will cut or lacerate your skin with a very thin blade (needle or lancet) so that blood is drawn into the cup.

Cupping has more recently been divided into five categories and classified by type, suction power, methods, added therapies, and the condition or area treated. Here is a closer look at each:21

• Technical types: In addition to dry cupping and wet cupping, some techniques include flash cupping and massage cupping. Flash cupping involves quickly applying and removing cups, while massage cupping involves massaging with the cups.
• Use of suction power: Cupping therapy can include varying degrees of suction. Options typically include light, medium, strong, and pulsatile (rhythmic).
• Methods of suction: Cupping therapy can use different types of suction, such as manual suction, fire-based suction, and electrical vacuuming.
• Added therapies: Cupping is sometimes combined with other therapies to increase the benefits. Complementary therapies might include needle, herbal, magnetic, laser, electrical stimulation, water, aquatic, and facial cupping procedures.
• Condition and area treated: Cupping therapy can be used to address specific conditions and target certain areas. These can include sports-related, orthopedic, abdominal, cosmetic, facial, and sex-specific cupping therapies for people assigned male and female at birth.

How Cupping Works

During cupping, the practitioner uses the cups to form a suction seal on your skin, which creates a vacuum that draws blood and other fluids to the area. This is thought to improve blood flow, promote healing, and reduce inflammation in the targeted area.

Many also use cupping to boost immune function, promote relaxation, reduce stress, and enhance overall well-being.

Some research suggests that dry cupping stimulates the lymphatic system, which helps remove built-up fluids and waste products in the treated area. With wet cupping, the tiny cuts stimulate inflammatory cells, triggering your body to release natural pain relievers and mood enhancers (like endorphins).

While there is little research on how or why cupping therapy works, there are theories about what happens within your body when cupping is performed. These include:

Pain-gate theory: Scientists speculate that the touch, pressure, and vibrations created during cupping therapy stimulate your body’s large nerve fibers. These movements can inhibit or reduce the pain signals sent to your brain, resulting in pain relief.
Diffuse noxious inhibitory control (DNIC) theory: DNIC theory is based on the idea that creating pain in one area will relieve pain in another. However, this theory is still not completely supported by evidence.
Release of nitric acid theory: Researchers theorize that cupping therapy may increase the production of nitric oxide (NO), which controls blood flow, volume, and vasodilation (opening blood vessels). According to this theory, cupping could improve blood circulation and prevent atherosclerosis (plaque buildup in the arteries).

Benefits of Cupping Therapy

Although research on the effectiveness and benefits of cupping therapy is limited, preliminary studies suggest the procedure may be beneficial, especially for pain management.

Reduce Frequency of Headaches and Migraines

Many people use cupping to reduce pain, especially from migraines and headaches. Some research shows that wet cupping can reduce headache severity by 66%. It may also lower the number of headache days a person experiences by 12.6 per month.

Improve Sports Recovery

Several studies show that cupping could help reduce muscle fatigue and soreness and speed recovery from minor sports injuries.

One small study found that cupping could reduce neuromuscular (nerve and muscle) fatigue after performing bicep curls, particularly in the biceps. Another study found that cupping therapy may be more beneficial than foam rolling in improving hamstring flexibility.

An additional study found evidence that cupping therapy may help improve blood flow and reduce pain in sports injuries. However, researchers note that the evidence is limited, and more research is needed.

Manage Skin Conditions

Cupping therapy may also be useful in treating certain skin conditions. One research review found that cupping, alongside other treatments, helped manage pain associated with skin conditions like shingles and chronic hives.

However, cupping can also potentially worsen some skin conditions, including eczema and psoriasis.

Reduce Chronic Pain

Several research reviews show that cupping may help reduce chronic pain, particularly pain caused by knee osteoarthritis, plantar fasciitis, and carpal tunnel.

One research review, with low- to moderate-quality evidence, showed that cupping may benefit pain-related conditions like back pain and osteoarthritis (joint breakdown). Another study found that, compared to no treatment, cupping can improve the ability to perform everyday tasks and function independently in people with chronic pain.

Another review found that dry cupping helps with pain and improves function in people with plantar fasciitis, which causes pain in the heel and bottom of the foot. A different study found that wet cupping may help treat carpal tunnel syndrome, which affects nerves in the wrist and causes weakness and pain.

Remove Excess Metals

One very small study examined whether wet cupping could remove heavy metals from a person’s body. Researchers found that the therapy helped remove toxins through secreted internal fluid. Specifically, the participants’ aluminum, zinc, and cadmium levels were significantly lower after cupping.

However, more research is needed to verify its effectiveness.

When To Use Cupping

Cupping is often used as a complementary therapy for various conditions, primarily those that cause pain or inflammation. Here are some of the conditions that may be treated with cupping:

• Acne
• Back, neck, shoulder, and knee pain
• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Dyspnea (shortness of breath)
• Fibromyalgia (a chronic condition causing full-body pain, tenderness, and fatigue)
• Gastrointestinal disorders
• Headaches
• Shingles
• Sore muscles
• Sports injuries

What To Expect During a Cupping Session

Preparation for a cupping session will depend on the type of cupping therapy you are receiving.

Dry cupping is typically a simple procedure that involves exposing only the skin where the cupping will occur. The practitioner applies cups to the skin’s surface to generate suction. Dry cupping does not usually require additional procedures.

With wet cupping, the practitioner makes a small cut or scratch on the skin before applying the cups. This allows the suction to draw a small amount of blood into the cup. The practitioner uses disposable equipment to avoid contamination.

Cups are usually left in place for up to 15 minutes during a cupping therapy session. However, the duration on the skin is much shorter during a flash cupping session.

After the procedure, you may notice residual ecchymosis (bruising), commonly known as cupping marks. These marks are often circular or oval-shaped areas of skin discoloration. Depending on your skin type and the suction strength, they can range from light red or pink to dark purple. The marks should disappear 1-10 days after the session.

Safety and Considerations

Cupping therapy is generally considered safe, but it can cause some side effects. People with sensitive skin or who received cupping therapy from an inexperienced professional may notice burning, blistering, or scarring.

It is also possible to experience headaches, dizziness, fatigue, fainting, nausea, and insomnia (trouble sleeping). In rare cases, cupping may lead to the Koebner phenomenon, resulting in new skin lesions.

Cupping therapy may not be ideal for everyone, especially children, older adults, people who are pregnant, and those taking blood thinners. You should also avoid cupping if you have a sunburn, wound, skin ulcer, or thinning skin.

People with the following conditions should avoid cupping therapy:

• Cancer
• Eczema
• Psoriasis
• Organ failure
• Blood disorders
• Pacemaker
• Epilepsy

A Quick Review

Cupping involves suctioning the skin with silicone, plastic, glass, bamboo, metal, or rubber cups. Proponents of this complementary therapy believe it can improve blood flow, decrease toxins, and reduce pain.

Although research on cupping’s benefits and effectiveness is limited, preliminary studies suggest it may help treat conditions such as sports injuries, migraines, carpal tunnel, and osteoarthritis. More research is needed before cupping can be recommended as part of treatment plans.

Cupping can be a helpful way to reduce tension, improve circulation, and support recovery—but it works best when it’s guided by clinical expertise. Physical therapy offers one of the safest and most appropriate ways to begin cupping. A trained clinician can determine whether it suits your condition, apply it to the right areas, and pair it with targeted exercises that support meaningful, longer-term improvement. At Pro Motion Physical Therapy, clinicians combine cupping with skilled assessment, individualized treatment, and evidence-based care so patients get real, measurable results, not just temporary relief. Book an appointment with Pro Motion today and experience recovery in motion.

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Reference: [ https://www.health.com/cupping-benefits-8775331 ]

TMJ disorder affects the jaw and nearby muscles, often causing pain, clicking, or trouble moving your jaw. The good news? Physical therapy provides relief from discomfort, restores jaw mobility, and addresses the underlying causes of TMJ. At Pro Motion Physical Therapy, our team specializes in TMJ care, providing personalized, hands-on treatment to help you feel and move better. Here are 10 things that can make TMJ worse, and what you can do about them.

Whether you experience tenderness and aching or significant pain and jaw locking due to temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ), avoiding things that make TMJ disorder worse is an important part of managing your condition and reducing flare-ups.

Things that can make TMJ symptoms worse include:

• Excessive chewing
• Poor posture
• Clenching your teeth
• Stress and anxiety
• Eating certain foods
• Smoking

Avoid Chewing Gum

You may enjoy chewing gum, but if you have TMJ disorder, you should avoid it.

Your jaw is the most constantly used joint in the body. Limiting excessive use of the joint and muscles alleviates pressure and gives them a chance to rest.

Resting sore muscles and joints is the first step in getting your TMJ symptoms to settle down.

Avoid Eating Hard Foods

When you have jaw pain due to TMJ disorder, you should avoid eating hard, chewy, or crunchy foods like bagels and apples.

These foods may place excessive stress on your jaw, thus preventing the joint from getting the necessary rest to allow for proper healing.

Avoid Non-Functional Jaw Activities

As we go through each day, we often do things with our jaws unconsciously or out of habit.

• While reading or writing, you may mindlessly chew on a pen.
• You may bite your fingernails or chew on small bits of clothing while watching TV or browsing the internet.

These parafunctional activities (behaviors that do not serve any functional purpose) may place stress on your TMJ and slow the healing process.

Avoid Resting on Your Chin

Many people rest their jaw in their hands while studying, browsing social media, or watching TV. This position may be comfortable, but it can affect your jaw.

This pressure against the side of your jaw may push against the joint, moving the disc out of place and creating problems with how your jaw opens and closes.

Breaking the habit of resting your chin on your hand can allow your joint to heal in the right place.

Avoid Chewing Only on One Side

Humans are creatures of habit, and many of us chew our food on one side of our mouth or the other. This can stress out one side of your temporomandibular joint and surrounding muscles, leading to TMJ pain and joint dysfunction.

Try to be aware of your chewing habits and make sure you consume food on both sides of your mouth. If you have dental problems or tooth pain on one side, see your dentist to get it fixed so you can chew evenly and comfortably.

Try to Stop Clenching Your Teeth

Bruxism is the medical term for clenching your teeth together. This behavior usually happens subconsciously and may occur during the day or while sleeping. This can be a real problem when you have TMJ disorder, as teeth clenching can place incredible stress on your jaw’s muscles.

If you think you may be clenching or grinding your teeth, reach out to a dentist or other oral health professional. They may prescribe a mouth guard that you can wear to keep your teeth from clenching and grinding. Botox is another option.

Stop Slouching

Did you know the function of your jaw is closely related to posture?

Your jaw operates best when your head is above your cervical spine and your posture is upright. If you slouch, it can change how your jaw muscles work and the way your jaw opens and closes.

When you’re treated for TMJ disorder, your physical therapist may work with you to change your posture. This may involve strengthening your back and shoulder muscles and setting frequent reminders to sit up tall.

Performing a slouch-overcorrect exercise is a great way to develop an awareness of proper posture. Sitting and standing upright and avoiding slouching can keep your jaw operating properly.

Reduce Stress and Anxiety

Stress and anxiety are common experiences that affect many people. They can also worsen symptoms of TMJ disorder. That’s because they can cause muscle tension in the head, neck, and jaw areas. This can further result in jaw clenching and teeth grinding, which puts extra strain on the jaw muscles and TMJ.

Managing your stress or anxiety can be an effective way to alleviate or prevent TMJ symptoms.

Techniques that can help include:

• Breathing exercises
• Mindfulness practices
• Meditation
• Physical activity (like yoga or walking)

If stress and anxiety are significantly impacting your life, talk to a healthcare provider or therapist for professional help.

Avoid Smoking

Studies show that smoking tobacco can intensify pain in persons with TMJ disorder. Nicotine and other compounds in tobacco smoke can cause muscle tension, redirect blood blow, and promote inflammation—all of which can worsen TMJ discomfort and hinder the healing process.

If you smoke, you may be able to improve TMJ symptoms simply by quitting smoking or cutting back.

Stop Waiting to Get Treatment

Many people with musculoskeletal problems simply wait for the pain and limited motion to go away. But if you are having problems with your jaw joint (the most used joint in the body), you should not wait to get treatment.

TMJ disorder is more often than not self-limiting (goes away on its own) and non-progressive and has a good rate of recovery with conservative treatment—meaning there’s all the more reason to seek help without delay.

See your healthcare provider or dentist for an accurate diagnosis if you suspect TMJ disorder. You may benefit from visiting a physical therapist to learn exercises and strategies to self-treat your condition.10 An orofacial pain specialist (dental specialist) is also an option.

Treatment

Treatment for TMJ disorder involves:

• Exercises to get your jaw moving normally
• Anti-inflammatory treatments
• Joint mobilizations
• Treatments to keep your muscles working properly

A splint or night guard can also help with nighttime teeth grinding (bruxism), which can be a cause of muscle soreness and TMJ disorder.

In severe cases, you may need surgery to correct your problem. However, it’s a last resort.12 Your initial treatment should focus on decreasing pain and improving the way your jaw opens and closes. Avoiding certain activities can help accomplish this task.

TMJ discomfort can interfere with everyday life, but understanding the factors that worsen it is the first step toward relief. Physical therapy is one of the most effective ways to improve TMJ symptoms, addressing both pain and the underlying causes while restoring movement and function. The expert team at Pro Motion Physical Therapy specializes in TMJ care, providing personalized, hands-on treatment designed to help you feel better and move more comfortably. Take control of your jaw health — book your session today and start feeling better. Call us today to book at 919-798-8199 and be sure to follow us on Instagram!

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Reference: [ https://www.verywellhealth.com/things-to-avoid-with-tmj-4582450 ]

(and You Don’t Have to Accept It)

Pain can quietly take over daily life, affecting how you move, sleep, work, and connect with others. While many try to “push through,” pain is your body’s way of asking for help, and physical therapy can make a real difference.

Pro Motion Physical Therapy focuses on why pain happens, helps you move with confidence, and guides you back to the life you enjoy.

The Many Benefits of Physical Therapy

Physical therapy supports better movement, less pain, and improved quality of life for people of all ages. Benefits include:

• Pain relief without reliance on medication
• Improved mobility, strength, and flexibility
• Faster recovery after injury or surgery
• Better balance and coordination
• Prevention of future injuries
• Improved posture and movement mechanics

Rather than masking symptoms, physical therapy focuses on restoring the body’s natural movement safely, efficiently, and without pain.

Why Do People See a Physical Therapist?

• People turn to physical therapy for many reasons, including:
• Persistent neck, back, or joint pain
• Sports or work-related injuries
• Post-surgical rehabilitation
• Headaches, jaw pain, or TMJ dysfunction
• Balance or dizziness issues
• Neurological conditions affecting movement
• Chronic pain that hasn’t improved with rest or medication

Each person is unique, and your care should reflect that. Unlike many clinics, we focus on consistent, personalized care specific to you.

The Pro Motion Physical Therapy Differenc

Sessions at other clinics can feel rushed, disjointed, and impersonal. Pro Motion Physical Therapy focuses on consistent, individualized care designed to restore movement and address the root causes of pain.

One-on-One Care, Every Session — As a small, locally owned physical therapy clinic, we provide personalized, one-on-one treatment with a licensed physical therapist. No technicians, no assistants, no handoffs. Every session is focused entirely on you.

Consistency You Can Feel — You’ll work with the same therapist at every visit, ensuring continuity of care as your treatment is regularly assessed, updated, and progressed based on your individual response.

Relationships That Matter — We build strong therapist–client relationships through personalized care in a supportive, family-oriented atmosphere focused on your goals.

Treating the Root Cause, Not Just the Pain — Rather than focusing on temporary relief, we address the root causes of pain to help you achieve lasting improvement and better movement.

Specialized Services Backed by Clinical Expertise

Pro Motion Physical Therapy sets the standard with a highly skilled rehab team offering expert care for orthopaedic, neurological, craniofacial/TMJ, and vestibular conditions.

Manual Therapy: Hands-on care to improve mobility, ease tension, and support natural movement.
TMJ Care: Specialized treatment for jaw pain, headaches, and facial tension related to TMJ dysfunction.
Blood Flow Restriction Therapy (BFR): A safe, effective method to increase muscle strength and size with lighter resistance, perfect for post-surgical or limited-load recovery.
Dry Needling: Targets muscle trigger points to relieve pain and improve function.
Cupping: Improves circulation, reduces muscle tightness, and supports tissue healing.
Laser Therapy: Non-invasive treatment that promotes tissue repair, reduces inflammation, and speeds healing.
We select and apply every service with your individual needs in mind. No cookie-cutter solutions here.

Care That Moves You Forward

Pain and discomfort don’t have to define your life. At Pro Motion Physical Therapy, we offer expert, personalized care with a focus on helping you move better, feel better, and reach your unique goals.

Experience one-on-one care designed just for you — schedule your session now.

Ready to Start Feeling Better?

Don’t let pain hold you back any longer. Call Pro Motion Physical Therapy now to schedule your evaluation and take the first step toward lasting relief and renewed confidence. Your journey starts today. Call us today to book at 919-798-8199 and be sure to follow us on Instagram!