A therapy using suction cups to promote circulation and healing.
Cupping therapy uses special cups placed on the skin to create suction, drawing blood flow to the area and promoting healing. The cups may be left stationary or moved along the body. Cupping can leave temporary circular marks that fade within days.
It's often used alongside massage to address deep muscle tension, inflammation, and pain.
Knowing what cupping means makes it easier to talk with a masseur before the session starts. Mention it during the intake conversation if it matters to you — a professional male massage therapist will explain how it fits the modality you booked, adjust pressure or positioning around it, and tell you honestly when a different approach suits your body better. You will find the same vocabulary used across our massage service pages, our wellness guides, and the NYC neighborhood pages, so the terms you learn here carry over to booking a real session.