Cupping is used to relieve back, neck and shoulder pain, stiff muscles, rheumatism, respiratory conditions, anxiety, fatigue and migraines – among many other conditions. It is especially therapeutic, as the body's natural reaction to pain causes a secondary muscle contraction. When the muscles constrict, the blood supply is restricted, causing the surface to become ischemic, which produces secondary pain to the surface area.
Cupping – combined with acupuncture – causes a reflex mechanism that helps to reduce or eliminate pain and promote circulation.