Cupping therapy is a Traditional Chinese Medicine technique that uses specialized glass or plastic cups to create suction on the skin. This negative pressure gently pulls skin and underlying tissues into the cup, stimulating blood flow and relieving tension in muscles and fascia. Traditionally, cupping is used to move stagnant qi and blood, which, if left untreated, can contribute to pain and dysfunction. There are several types of cupping, including stationary (where cups are left in place), sliding (where cups glide over lubricated skin), and bleed-cupping (used sparingly for specific cases of blood stagnation). It is commonly incorporated alongside acupuncture for enhanced pain relief and is also used for sports injuries, tight muscles, and chronic tension patterns. Cupping may leave temporary marks, which indicate increased circulation and toxin release.