Cupping
Cupping is one of the most oldest forms of medical treatment and has been part of the traditional medical system in countries such as China, Japan, Korea and Egypt. Cupping therapy, also known as myofascial decompression, involves the suction of a glass cup, performed by creating a vacuum with a flame before being placed on the body. Other types of cupping also exist which create a vacuum through a hand pump - this is a more modern form of cupping that is more commonly used.
We recommend cupping where the priority is to release tension such as in painful conditions and where muscular rigidity is involved. We also use cupping as a traditional method to boost the immune system such as for respiratory conditions and to protect from coughs and colds during the winter months.
What happens during a cupping treatment?
Once the cups are placed onto the skin, you’ll feel an instant pulling sensation into the cup. This negative pressure from within the cup allows the skin's pores to open up and the warming and dispersing effects result in a number of biological and mechanical changes to the body. This negative pressure decompresses the local area by lifting the skin, local tissue as well as the fascia which in turn stretches the fascial tissue and encourages lymphatic drainage of toxins. By freeing up the fascia, the tissue becomes more fluid which softens underlying muscles, improves flexibility and reduces tissue adhesions.
Most patients describe a deep warming sensation in the area where cupping is being carried out and by the end of the session, patients describe feeling deeply relaxed and energised. It’s very common to experience a sensation of lightness and flexibility in areas which have previously felt painful, knotted, tight and tense.
What can cupping be used for?
Cupping is widely used in China for a range of problems and in our experience, it can play a particularly useful role for:
improving sports performance and recovery after strenuous exercise
pain conditions such as headache and migraine, knee pain, neck, shoulder and back pain, rheumatoid arthritis and carpal tunnel syndrome
myofascial release which can be beneficial in fibromyalgia, chronic myofascial pain syndrome and sports injury rehabilitation
respiratory conditions such as chronic bronchitis, frequent coughs, colds and asthma
chronic fatigue sydrome
insomnia anxiety, stress and tiredness
digestive disorders such as indigestion, constipation and irritable bowel syndrome
Is cupping safe?
Cupping will often leave circular bruises in areas where the fascia is especially tight and where there is a particular need for the blood and lymph circulation to be supported. These bruises are mostly painless and can often last 2-7 days.
Cupping is contraindicated directly on open wounds and fractures. We also advise against cupping if you are currently pregnant. Precautionary measures may also need to be put in place if you have sensitive skin.
While acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine can support many different health-related conditions, treatment is always personalized — whether you are managing a chronic condition or seeking relief from everyday stress. Here are some of the most common conditions we treat:
-
Chronic and acute pain conditions including back pain, neck and shoulder tension, headaches, migraines, joint pain, arthritis, sciatica, neuropathy, and sports injuries. Acupuncture is one of the most well-researched and widely recommended integrative treatments for pain management.
-
Comprehensive fertility support for both women and men, including preparation for natural conception, IVF and IUI support, unexplained infertility, and recurrent miscarriage. Dr. Hewwing takes a whole-body approach to optimizing reproductive health through acupuncture and individualized herbal medicine.
-
Integrative care for hormonal imbalances including polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, adenomyosis, irregular menstrual cycles, painful periods, fibroids, and perimenopausal and menopausal symptoms. Dr. Hewwing is highly experienced in addressing the root causes of hormonal disruption using both Acupuncture and Chinese Herbal medicine.
-
Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine are highly effective for managing stress, anxiety, burnout, insomnia, and emotional exhaustion. Treatment works by regulating the nervous system, lowering cortisol levels, and restoring the body's natural equilibrium — leaving patients feeling calmer, clearer, and more resilient.
-
Support for inflammatory conditions including autoimmune disorders, eczema, acne, psoriasis, irritable bowel syndrome, and chronic fatigue. Chinese herbal medicine in particular is highly effective at modulating immune response and reducing systemic inflammation.
-
Integrative oncology support for patients undergoing or recovering from cancer treatment. Acupuncture and herbal medicine can help manage the side effects of chemotherapy and radiation, including nausea, fatigue, pain, neuropathy, and immune suppression — supporting quality of life throughout the treatment journey.
-
Support for metabolic conditions including thyroid disorders, diabetes management, weight management, and digestive health. Chinese medicine addresses metabolic imbalances at their root, promoting healthy energy regulation and overall vitality.
-
Specialized care throughout all stages of pregnancy, including morning sickness, back and pelvic pain, anxiety, breech presentation, and labor preparation. Dr. Hewwing provides safe, evidence-informed treatment tailored to each stage of pregnancy.
-
Gentle, effective care for younger patients navigating growing pains, hormonal changes, menstrual irregularities, stress, anxiety, and immune health. Dr. Hewwing has extensive experience treating adolescents and creates a calm, welcoming environment for younger patients.
-
Integrative support for bladder and vaginal health concerns including interstitial cystitis, recurrent UTIs, overactive bladder, and vaginal dryness. Chinese medicine offers effective, natural solutions for conditions that are often undertreated in conventional medicine.
-
"Dr Samantha Hewwing is AMAZING! I’ve done acupuncture with a trusted doctor for the majority of my life, but then I moved to NYC. She’s great!!! She knows her stuff.."
—Annie L.
-
"Samantha took a holistic approach and thought about the best course of action for me whether it was acupuncture or other techniques."
— Hannah B.
-
"Samantha is super kind and informative. This is a much more serious form of acupuncture than I was used to (previous ones I went to were much more- left feeling much more relaxed and light. Definitely would recommend for anyone in need of real holistic treatments."
— Colin K.
-
"Favorite Acupuncturist by far! The office is warm and welcoming and Dr. Hewwing’s personality was charming but professional. I highly reccomend her."
— Nancy W.
-
"I just had another amazing session with Dr. Hewwing. I can’t recommend her enough! Whether it’s your first time or you’ve been to acupuncture before, Do yourself a favor and go here! It’s an investment in your health! Take steps towards even better health.
— Kam C.