A practitioner pressing clear suction cups into place along a patient's bare upper back as he lies face down

What it is

What is cupping therapy and how does it work?

Cupping therapy is the placement of cups on the skin to create gentle suction that lifts the tissue underneath. That lift draws blood flow to the area, releases tight muscle and connective tissue, and encourages lymphatic drainage. A session runs 20 to 30 minutes, and the technique comes directly from Traditional Chinese Medicine.

Cupping comes in three methods, each matched to a different pattern: dry cupping for muscle stiffness, wet cupping for deeper release, and fire cupping for heat-based stimulation. Dr. Tsai chooses the method and pairs it with other therapies based on your specific pattern of tension, pain or fatigue, rather than applying the same approach to every patient.

Traditional Chinese Medicine technique
Three cupping methods offered
No needles required
Suitable for most ages
Appointment now
Same-week appointments
Most insurance accepted
25 years of experience
Licensed in Florida

Our process

What happens during a cupping session?

A cupping session runs in five steps: consultation, assessment, cup placement, a rest phase and aftercare guidance. The session takes 20 to 30 minutes, and Dr. Tsai adjusts the suction to your comfort throughout.

Your session

Who is cupping for, and what does a session feel like?

Cupping suits patients with neck or shoulder stiffness, back pain, arthritis, migraines, sports injuries, stress, respiratory complaints or fatigue. Most patients describe the suction as a tight, pulling sensation rather than pain, and find it relaxing.

What to expect during your session

Cupping is a calm, hands-on session, and Dr. Tsai explains the chosen method before the first cup goes on.

  • A clear explanation of the cupping method chosen for you
  • Gentle suction, adjusted to your comfort
  • 20 to 30 minutes per session (initial visits run longer)
  • Circular marks where cups were applied, fading within 2-5 days
  • A relaxed, loosened feeling afterward
Read common questions

Conditions cupping therapy addresses

Cupping pairs with acupuncture as part of a broader Traditional Chinese Medicine plan.

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Benefits

What do patients notice after cupping?

Patients notice released muscle tension, improved circulation and calmer energy. Lifting the tissue and drawing circulation to the area lets the body release what it has been holding onto.

In-network with most major plans

We accept your insurance

  • UnitedHealthcare
  • BlueCross BlueShield
  • Aetna
  • Cigna Healthcare
  • Optum
  • GEHA
  • Surest, a UnitedHealthcare company
  • Partners Direct Health

Don't see your plan? Call (954) 987-6988 — we will check it for you before you book.

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What types of cupping do you offer?
Three methods: dry, wet and fire cupping. Dr. Tsai chooses between them based on your condition:
  • Dry cupping - gentle suction for muscle stiffness
  • Wet cupping - combines suction with light toxin removal
  • Fire cupping - heat-based stimulation for deeper release
Does cupping hurt?
Cupping does not hurt. Most patients describe a tight, pulling sensation rather than pain, and find it relaxing. Dr. Tsai adjusts the suction level to your comfort throughout the session.
Why does cupping leave marks?
The circular marks show increased circulation to the area, not a bruise from injury. They are painless and fade on their own within 2 to 5 days.
How often do I need cupping?
Once or twice a week for acute pain, every 2 to 3 weeks for chronic tension, monthly for maintenance.
  • Acute pain - 1 to 2 times per week
  • Chronic tension - every 2 to 3 weeks
  • General wellness maintenance - monthly
What conditions does cupping help with?
Back and neck pain, shoulder stiffness, arthritis, migraines, sports injuries, stress and anxiety, respiratory complaints and fatigue. See Conditions Treated and Pain Management for the full lists.
Is cupping safe for everyone?
Cupping is safe for most people, with three exceptions Dr. Tsai checks first: certain skin conditions, bleeding disorders and pregnancy. He reviews your health history before the first cup, and he tells you plainly when cupping is not the right fit.

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Free consultation | Same-week appointments | Most insurance accepted

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