In a typical cupping session at Klinic Amsterdam, glass cups are used to create a controlled vacuum on the surface of the skin. This vacuum is traditionally produced by briefly warming the inside of the cup—often by igniting a cotton ball soaked in alcohol—and then placing the cup on the skin. As the oxygen inside the cup cools and contracts, a gentle suction is formed. This negative pressure lifts the skin and underlying tissues, stimulating local circulation and facilitating therapeutic effects.

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From a clinical perspective, cupping therapy can be applied as a standalone treatment or in combination with acupuncture and Tui Na massage, depending on the patient’s condition and treatment goals. The cups are typically left in place for 5 to 20 minutes, with the duration adjusted according to the nature of the complaint, the treated area, and the individual’s body constitution. Multiple cups may be applied simultaneously to different regions of the body to address broader patterns of tension or stagnation. In some cases, medicated or herbal oils are applied prior to treatment to facilitate movement along acupuncture points or meridians and to enhance therapeutic effects.

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Within Traditional Chinese Medicine, cupping is commonly used to promote the circulation of Qi and blood, disperse stagnation, and support the body’s detoxification processes. In China, it is frequently employed in the treatment of conditions such as bronchitis, asthma, arthritis, gastrointestinal disorders, and various forms of acute and chronic pain, particularly those related to muscular tension or cold and damp patterns.

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A specific and widely used technique is Moving Cupping, in which cups are gently glided over lubricated skin rather than remaining stationary. At Klinic Amsterdam, Moving Cupping is often applied to help relieve stress, ease muscular tension, and support patients experiencing burnout or depressive symptoms. This method aims to harmonize body and mind, stimulate metabolism, improve circulation, and assist the body in eliminating metabolic waste products. Many patients experience a deep sense of relaxation and lightness following treatment.

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It is normal for cupping therapy to leave temporary circular marks or discoloration on the skin. These marks are not bruises and typically fade within a few days to one week, depending on the individual’s circulation and constitution. At Klinic, patients are always informed in advance about what to expect, ensuring transparency, comfort, and safety.

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At Klinic Amsterdam, cupping therapy is carefully integrated into a personalized treatment plan, based on both Traditional Chinese Medicine diagnosis and relevant Western medical considerations. When appropriate, it is combined with acupuncture, Tui Na, or herbal medicine to support recovery, reduce pain, improve resilience, and restore overall balance.