The most common misunderstanding regarding the after effects of cupping, is the potential marks that result.
Where there is stagnant blood, lymph, cellular debris, and pathogenic factors present in the body, cupping can leave marks which indicates that the stagnation has been moved from the deeper tissue layers to the surface, allowing fresh oxygenated blood to nourish and heal the underlying areas. These surface discolorations are misinterpreted as damage rather the result of toxic agents being drawn to the surface.
The color and pattern of the marks depend on the level of stagnation in the area. They can range from a bright red to dark purple, usually lasting 1 up to 14 days. They can sometimes last longer if the tissue is in a state of chronic congestion and with those who lead a more sedentary lifestyle. If there is no stagnation present, there will be only a light pink mark which disappears in a few minutes to a couple of hours. Sites where there is old trauma or injury may require multiple cupping treatments to remove all stagnation. You will find in follow up treatments the marks will be visibly lighter and lighter as the stagnation is systemically removed from the body.
I understand that Fusion Therapeutic Bodywork often incorporates massage cupping into a therapeutic massage session. I have been informed about massage cupping and its potential side effect of marking. I understand that the marks that may result from massage cupping are temporary and may take 1 to 14 days to resolve depending upon the integrity of my lymphatic system and underlying tissue. I do not hold Fusion Therapeutic Bodywork responsible for any esthetic issues the marks may cause and I will notify my practitioner if I opt out of receiving massage cupping before the treatment session begins.