Cupping

Cupping Therapy: An Ancient Tool, Modern Application

Cupping is a manual therapy technique that uses small suction cups to create a gentle pulling effect on the skin and underlying soft tissues. It’s been used for thousands of years in traditional medicine and is now gaining evidence-based support as a valuable tool in physical therapy—especially for reducing tension, improving tissue mobility, and relieving pain.

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In pelvic floor physical therapy, cupping can be used on:

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• Abdomen

• Low back and sacrum

• Glutes and hips

• Inner thighs and adductors

• Diaphragm or ribcage (to support breath and core function)

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It is always customized to your needs and comfort, and can be used on its own or in combination with other manual therapy, movement, and neuromuscular retraining techniques.

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What Does Cupping Do?

While traditional massage compresses tissue, cupping does the opposite—it lifts the skin and fascia slightly away from underlying layers, which can help:

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• Decompress tight or bound-up tissues

• Stimulate blood and lymphatic flow

• Improve fascial glide and mobility

• Calm the nervous system and reduce pain

• Support healing of scar tissue or adhesions

• Enhance mind-body awareness and tissue connection

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In the pelvic floor world, cupping can be especially helpful for people with chronic tension patterns, scars, pain syndromes, or restricted mobility in the hips, pelvis, or core.

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What Conditions Might Benefit from Cupping?

Cupping is used as part of a broader pelvic PT plan to help address:

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• Pelvic pain syndromes

• Sacroiliac joint or low back pain

• Endometriosis-related fascial tension

• Abdominal or C-section scars

• Hip and gluteal tightness

• Diastasis recti and core dysfunction

• Chronic holding patterns or protective bracing

• Postpartum healing and mobility

• Menstrual or ovulatory discomfort

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What Does It Feel Like?

During cupping, a small silicone or plastic cup is placed on the skin and gently suctioned (either by hand or with a pump). You may feel:

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• A light pulling or lifting sensation

• Warmth or tingling as circulation increases

• Gentle pressure—not sharp or painful

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Most people find it deeply relaxing, and it often provides a feeling of lightness or freedom in tight areas afterward.

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Occasionally, cupping may leave a temporary pink or purple mark (similar to a hickey), which fades within a few days. This is just a sign of increased circulation and tissue response.

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Is It Safe?

Yes—when performed by a licensed provider trained in therapeutic cupping, it’s considered safe, low-risk, and well-tolerated. Cupping is always adapted to your body, comfort level, and medical history, and you’re welcome to decline it at any time.

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Is There Evidence Behind It?

While more research is needed in pelvic-specific applications, studies show that cupping therapy can help:

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• Reduce musculoskeletal pain

• Improve tissue flexibility

• Decrease inflammation

• Increase blood flow and lymphatic drainage

• Support parasympathetic (rest-and-digest) nervous system responses

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In combination with skilled physical therapy, cupping can be a gentle yet powerful tool for restoring balance, mobility, and comfort in the core and pelvic regions.

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In Short:

Cupping therapy is a safe, non-invasive, and research-supported way to release tension, improve tissue mobility, and support your body’s natural healing process. Whether you're navigating postpartum recovery, chronic pelvic pain, or just feel “stuck” in your tissues, cupping can help you move and feel better—without pushing or forcing.

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Curious About Trying It?

As always, your physical therapy plan is collaborative and consent-based. If cupping seems like something you’re curious about, we’ll explain how it works and tailor it to your unique goals.