Why We Use Fire Cupping

We incorporate fire cupping as part of our holistic treatment approach. Alongside acupuncture and chiropractic care, cupping provides:

• Myofascial release

• Improved blood and lymph flow

• Relaxation of deep muscle layers

• Support for injury recovery

• Detoxification and tension relief

• Releasing muscle knots and fascia restrictions

• Improving range of motion

• Stimulating lymphatic and blood circulation

• Reducing inflammation and chronic tension

• Supporting overall mobility and relaxation

Our acupuncturists use fire cupping as a natural and effective method to restore movement and reduce discomfort, often producing results faster than massage alone.

How Fire Cupping Works

In fire cupping, a cotton ball is soaked in alcohol and briefly lit, then placed inside a glass cup to remove oxygen. This creates a vacuum. The flame is removed, and the cup is quickly placed on the skin, where it gently adheres and lifts the soft tissue.

Depending on your condition, the cups may:

• Stay in one place (static cupping)

• Be gently moved around the area (sliding cupping) using oil to glide smoothly across the skin

Both styles improve circulation, ease muscle tightness, and support detoxification.

What Does It Feel Like?

Most people find cupping deeply relaxing. The suction creates a pulling sensation that feels like a reverse massage. After treatment, you may feel warmth, lightness, or increased range of motion in the area.

It’s normal to see round, bruise-like marks that fade over several days. These marks are not painful and are simply a result of increased circulation.

Types of Cupping We Offer

We offer two main styles of cupping, each chosen based on your treatment goals and practitioner:

Fire Cupping
Used by our acupuncturists, fire cupping involves briefly lighting a cotton ball inside a glass cup to create a vacuum. The cup is then placed on your skin, where it gently lifts the soft tissue. Fire cupping can be done as:

• Static cupping: Cups stay in place over specific areas.

• Sliding cupping: Cups are gently moved over oiled skin to target larger muscle groups and fascia.

Pump Cupping
Used by our chiropractors, pump cupping uses plastic or silicone cups and a manual hand pump to create suction. This method is ideal for precise control and can also be used for static or sliding techniques.

Both methods are safe, effective, and tailored to your comfort and treatment needs. Your practitioner will choose the best approach to support your recovery, mobility, and well-being.

Who Can Benefit from Cupping Therapy?

Cupping is suitable for many people and conditions, including:

• Tight or stiff muscles

• Headaches or migraines

• Postural tension

• Chronic pain

• Sports injuries

• Poor circulation

• Scars and fascial restrictions

• Stress or fatigue

• Lower back, shoulder, or neck pain

• Reduced flexibility or stiffness

• Tendinitis, bursitis, or plantar fasciitis

• Scar tissue and fascial adhesions

Cupping can be used as a standalone treatment or alongside acupuncture or chiropractic care to improve mobility and support faster recovery.

Why Choose Advantage Acupuncture for Cupping

We provide an integrative approach to care, combining cupping with acupuncture or chiropractic support when appropriate. With us, you receive:

• Skilled practitioners experienced in fire cupping and pump cupping

• Personalised treatment plans

• ACC support for injury-related treatment

• Clinics in convenient Auckland locations

• A supportive, holistic health environment

We tailor your care to your goals, whether it’s recovery, pain relief, or performance.

What to Expect After Treatment

After cupping, you might experience:

• Mild soreness in the treated area

• Round bruise-like marks lasting several days

• A feeling of looseness or increased range of motion

• Improved circulation and reduced pain

Many patients describe feeling relaxed, lighter, and less tense following a session.

Benefits of Cupping Therapy

Cupping offers a wide range of physical benefits, including:

• Decompression of tight tissues

• Reduction in muscle pain and soreness

• Improved lymphatic drainage

• Enhanced joint mobility

• Release of toxins and metabolic waste

• Better oxygenation to tissues

• Relief from chronic tension patterns

• Support for immune and digestive function

It is a safe and gentle alternative to deep tissue massage with fewer side effects.

Still Unsure if Fire Cupping Is Right for You?

If you're not sure whether cupping is suitable for your condition or recovery plan, our team is happy to help. Contact Advantage Acupuncture for guidance and answers to any questions you may have.

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