The practice of cupping may date as far back as 3000 BC. The cupping procedure involves creating a small area of low air pressure next to the skin. This is done heating the cup or the air inside it. As the air inside the cup cools, it contracts and draws the skin slightly inside. Cups are used only on softer tissue that can form a good seal with the edge of the cup. They may be used singly or with many to cover a larger area. They may be used by themselves and placed on a meridian or they can be used by placing them over an acupuncture needle.
This treatment is commonly used in conjunction with other treatments and in not painful.