Not necessarily. Some physiotherapists with knowledge around traditional Chinese medicine offer cupping to promote blood circulation by lifting the connective tissue, loosening adhesions, and restoring blood flow to areas of the body that have been restricted. This can be good for deep tissue repair.

However, not all physiotherapists find cupping helpful and the negative side effects (for example bruising and cupping marks) can sometimes outweigh the good.

Overall, we recommend taking a cupping course just to be safe – you never know where you’ll end up working, or if clients will request this unique form of massage therapy.