Wet Cupping & Hijama
Conditions We Treat with Cupping
Detoxification
Digestive Disorders
Fertility Issues
Headaches
Hormonal Issues
Musculoskeletal Issues
Pain
Respiratory Conditions
Skin Conditions
Stress
What is Hijama & Wet Cupping and How Does it Work?
Hijama and wet cupping, is an ancient healing practice from Chinese and Islamic medicine, used for over 1,400 years across the Middle East, Asia, and Africa. It involves placing cups on specific skin points to create suction, followed by small incisions to draw out blood, believed to remove toxins and stagnant blood to promote healing. The therapy aims to improve circulation, boost immunity, and relieve blockages.
Modern views suggest wet cupping may enhance blood flow, reduce inflammation, and support pain relief, potentially aiding conditions like chronic pain and fatigue. As a complementary therapy, hijama is valued for its holistic approach and minimal side effects, like temporary bruising. Sessions last 30-60 minutes, tailored to individual needs, often promoting relaxation, though scientific evidence is limited.
What to Expect With Wet Cupping & Hijama
1. Initial Consultation - Your practitioner will have a brief discussion about your health goals, medical history, and any concerns to tailor the session to your needs.
2. Hygienic Procedure - We use single-use, sterile, and disposable cups and lancets for wet cupping to ensure safety and hygiene
3. Session Experience: The treatment lasts 30-60 minutes. After going over your health goals and chief complaints we will begin the hijama and wet cupping session by applying olive oil to the skin and performing moving cupping. This technique helps to bring circulation over a broad area and helps with lymphatic drainage & movement.
Then stationary cups area applied to the various areas around the back, head, or limbs for several minutes. The stationary cups are applied in this method to concentrate the blood flow into the area. After the stationary cups are removed the area is cleaned with alcohol wipes before the site is lanced. The cups are then reapplied over the lanced area for 5-15 minutes.
For Muslim patients, and for those that request the experience, Islamic prayer can be played over the speakers in the room and Ruqyah can be recited aloud during the treatment.
4. Post-Treatment Benefits - Afterward, you may feel looser muscles, reduced stiffness, and improved mobility due to enhanced blood flow. Many experience a refreshing energy boost and deep relaxation, with some believing it aids in toxin release through the lymphatic system.
5. Aftercare and Nourishment - After the treatment your practitioner will provide simple aftercare tips, such as staying hydrated and avoiding strenuous activity. To conclude the session in line with tradition, you’ll be offered honey water and dates, providing natural nourishment and a moment of reflection.
6. Long-Term Benefits - With regular sessions, you may notice reduced pain, better sleep, and enhanced overall well-being, aligning with the holistic goals of hijama.
The Top Benefits of Hijama & Wet Cupping
Pain Relief
Hijama is valued for relieving pain in conditions like arthritis, back pain, and migraines. The suction boosts blood flow, eases muscle tension, and may trigger natural pain relief. Small studies and anecdotal reports suggest it reduces inflammation and aids mobility, especially for chronic pain. Athletes often use it for muscle recovery.
Improved Sleep
The relaxation induced by hijama may promote better sleep by calming the nervous system and reducing physical discomfort. Clients often note improved sleep patterns, making it a popular choice for those with insomnia or restless nights.
Improved Circulation
Hijama’s suction draws blood to the skin, enhancing local and systemic circulation. This may deliver more oxygen and nutrients to tissues, aiding healing from injuries or fatigue. It could also reduce swelling and support heart health.
Stress Relief
Wet cupping may promote relaxation by stimulating the parasympathetic nervous system, easing stress and muscle tension. Users often report better sleep and reduced anxiety, possibly due to endorphin release or a calming session environment.
Over 450 5 Star Online Reviews
98 Five Star Reviews
Dr. Sugiura,
Thank you for everything you have done to support my family over the years. Your ethics set a standard far exceeding that of most physicians we have encountered. With heartfelt gratitude, Lo and Offa have lived better lives thanks to your knowledge and guidance. You are a significant reason we have not lost hope.
—R Z
247 Five Star Reviews
Michael was very knowledgeable and professional. It was a very nice experience. We discussed regarding healthy food I am eating He recommended some food to try to help me with my weight and stress. It was a very productive discussion about stress, food. He also told me about cupping and what he’s doing next and if I was comfortable. I really recommend him.
—Mitsuko
121 Five Star Reviews
“Mike is so thorough and knowledgeable. Best acupuncture experience I have ever had. I will definitely be going back!”
“The owner Michael was super nice and very knowledgeable! I had a great experience!”
“This is the first time I’ve ever had acupuncture and cupping, and it was great. Definitely recommend.”
Book Your Appointment
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Cupping therapy typically does not cause significant pain during the procedure; most people describe it as a feeling of tightness or pulling on the skin, similar to a deep tissue massage. However, sensitivity varies—some may experience mild discomfort, especially in tender areas or if the suction is strong, but it's generally tolerable and even relaxing for many. After the session, you might feel slight soreness or see temporary bruising (like hickeys), which fades in a few days and is a normal sign of increased circulation. If performed by a licensed practitioner, the process is safe and shouldn't be painful, though communicating any discomfort allows adjustments.
-
A basic cupping treatment is 15 minutes long, and there are 30, 60, and 90 minute options available as well. These other options include acupuncture, tuina massage, or both.
-
It depends on what we are treating, but if you want your full back to be cupped then you will have to remove your top
-
-
We accept cash, check, and credit card (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover).
-
At this time we are not accepting insurance, but we can give you an invoice/superbill to give to your insurance company for reimbursement.