Hands-on & heat therapies

Fire Cupping

Cupping is a traditional Chinese technique in which cups are placed on the skin and held there by suction. In fire cupping, a flame briefly warms the air inside a glass cup before it is placed, never touching the skin, so the cup draws the tissue gently upwards as it cools.

Glass cups on a wooden tray while a lit cotton swab is held above one of them
Illustration Not a photograph of Dr Patel or her practice

What it involves

  • Cups are usually placed on the back, shoulders or other muscular areas and left for several minutes, or moved gently over oiled skin.
  • It is often combined with acupuncture or massage as part of a session.

Your consultation

  • Your main concern, history and skin health are discussed first, and cupping is only used where it suits you.

What to expect

  • A pulling, tightening sensation that most people find tolerable and some find relaxing.
  • Circular marks are common. They are not burns and usually fade within several days, so plan around events where they may be visible.

Before you book: precautions

Please let Dr Patel know about the following. They do not always rule treatment out, but they help her keep you safe.

  • Not used over broken, inflamed or sunburnt skin, varicose veins or recent injuries.
  • Tell Dr Patel if you are pregnant, have a bleeding disorder, take blood thinners or bruise easily.

This information is general. Your suitability for any treatment is assessed individually at your consultation.

Explore related points on the body map

A few of the points featured on the educational body map that relate to this therapy. Your own treatment points are always chosen individually.

Enquire about fire cupping

Your first visit (consultation and treatment) takes about 60–75 minutes. Message or call to arrange a time in Lenasia, or in Sunninghill by appointment.

Ready to talk it through?

Book a consultation in Lenasia, or in Sunninghill by appointment. Send a WhatsApp message or call, and the practice will reply to arrange a time.