Dry & Wet Cupping

A healthcare professional in a white coat performs a cupping therapy with glass cups on a patient's back in a treatment room, with a painting of a sunset on the wall in the background.

What is Cupping?


Cupping therapy uses suction cups placed on the skin to boost circulation, release muscle tension, and promote healing. It's often used to relieve muscle pain and stiffness, improve mobility, and support recovery from tension, stress, and even respiratory issues like congestion.

What does It Feel Like?


Most patients describe cupping as a deep, pulling sensation as the cups create suction on the skin, similar to a reverse massage. It's generally relaxing rather than painful, though the area may feel tender for a day or two afterward, similar to a deep tissue massage.
Person performing cupping therapy with four plastic cups on patient's back.

How long do marks last?


The circular marks left by cupping are a normal response as blood flow moves to the surface, and they typically fade within 3 to 10 days, depending on the person and how tight the muscle was. They're not bruises in the traditional sense and shouldn't be painful.
A woman lying face down on a medical examination table with a medical gown partially covering her back. Multiple cups with syringes are attached to her back, indicating a cupping therapy session.

Who Is Cupping For?


Cupping is great for anyone dealing with muscle tension, chronic pain, stress, or recovering from an intense workout, it's especially popular with athletes for muscle recovery. As with any treatment, it's best to check with your Dr. Fan if you're pregnant, on blood thinners, or have certain skin conditions.
A person receiving cupping therapy on their back, with several glass cups creating suction. A practitioner wearing gloves is adjusting one of the cups. The person is lying face down on a towel.

One Successful Patient Story


Dr. Fan has been our choice for alternative treatment since my husband and I moved to Austin area 10+ years ago. I had really bad frozen shoulder problem which had cause severe pain and seriously impacted my daily life. I tried medication and physical therapy with little improvement. After only three acupuncture sessions with Dr. Fan, my symptoms have improved significantly. Though each section was quite intense, it was very effective as I rather bear those couple minutes pain over than prolong the agony. Now my left frozen shoulder is totally cured after a couple months treatment with Dr. Fan. Dr. Fan is also very good at treating chronic problems such as gastritis, IBS,… However, in order for acupuncture treatment to be effective and without any negative side effects, a series of sessions are necessary just like physical therapy.

A five-star review graphic with yellow stars, zero out of five stars highlighted, and a caption reading 'How did we do?'.

Vanessa L