The use of the Suction Cup is probably one of the oldest techniques of Traditional Chinese Medicine.

There are several types of suction cups. The safest ones are plastic ones that have a vacuum system attached to make a slight suction of the skin. The suction causes the tissues to be lifted (in the inner area of ​​the suction cup), stimulating the local blood flow, "unblocking the qi block" and promoting drainage in that area.

Depending on the pathology and the patient, the suction cups can be placed between 5 to 10 minutes. Several suction cups can be used at the same time. The treatment can be done with a static suction cup or moisturize the skin with a special oil, so that the acupuncture can move the suction cup from one point to another or make a deeper massage.

The effect of the suction cup is to promote local and systemic blood flow, depending on the treatment, mobilize qi, promote muscle relaxation, drain and uncontract. It is for this reason widely used to treat contractures in sportspeople.

It is also a complementary technique used to reduce body fat in slimming and relaxation massage.