Cupping Therapy Side Effects: What You Need to Know Before Trying It

When you hear about cupping therapy, a traditional healing method that uses suction cups on the skin to improve circulation and relieve muscle tension. Also known as traditional cupping, it's been used for thousands of years across cultures—from ancient Egypt to modern athletic training rooms. While many swear by its pain-relieving power, not everyone talks about the cupping therapy side effects. And that’s the part you need to know before you book a session.

Most people experience only minor reactions: circular red or purple marks on the skin that look like bruises but aren’t. These aren’t injuries—they’re just blood drawn to the surface by suction, and they fade in a few days to a week. Some feel a little sore afterward, like after a deep tissue massage. Others get lightheaded or dizzy during the session, especially if they’re dehydrated or haven’t eaten. These aren’t rare—they’re normal. But they’re not the same for everyone. People with thin skin, bleeding disorders, or who take blood thinners should skip it. Pregnant women should avoid cupping on the abdomen or lower back. And if you have open wounds, eczema, or sunburn, don’t put cups there. It’s not just about comfort—it’s about safety.

These side effects are tied to how cupping therapy, a technique that draws fluid and blood to the skin’s surface to stimulate healing. Also known as holistic healing, it works by triggering your body’s natural repair response. That’s why it’s often paired with other practices like acupressure therapy, a form of pressure-based healing rooted in traditional Chinese medicine. Also known as traditional Chinese massage, it’s used to clear energy blockages, or even gua sha, a scraping technique that also improves circulation and reduces inflammation. Also known as gua sha therapy, it’s often done right after cupping in the same session. These methods share the same goal: to move stagnation, reduce pain, and help your body heal itself. But they also share similar risks. That’s why knowing what to expect—not just the benefits, but the side effects—is the key to using them wisely.

You’ll find plenty of posts here that explain how cupping helps athletes recover, eases chronic back pain, or supports relaxation. But you’ll also see real stories from people who tried it and felt the marks, the soreness, the dizziness. Some loved it. Others walked away wondering why they didn’t feel better. This collection doesn’t just sell the hype—it shows you the full picture. Whether you’re curious, skeptical, or ready to try it, you’ll walk away knowing exactly what you’re signing up for.