Cupping applies suction to the skin with glass or silicone cups, either held in place or slid over oiled skin. It is used for tight backs and shoulders, for recovery after hard training, and sometimes alongside treatment for respiratory complaints.
The circular marks are the part people ask about. They are not bruises in the ordinary sense and they are not painful; they fade over three days to a week, sometimes longer. If you have an event, a wedding or a photo shoot coming up, say so and the practitioner will plan around it.
Cupping is not appropriate over broken skin, on anyone taking anticoagulants without medical advice, or during pregnancy on certain areas. Tell the practitioner what you take and what is going on.
