Cupping Therapy is an ancient technique, in which a special cup is applied to the skin and held in place by vacuum-like suction. The suction draws superficial tissue into the cup, which may be left in place or moved along the body. Cupping brings fresh blood to the area and helps improve circulation. Traditional cupping, sometimes referred to as fire cupping, uses heat to create a suction inside of glass cups. In modern times, plastic cups are used with a small vacuum pump to create suction, and small rubber cups that can be hand manipulated, without heat, have been introduced for convenience and safety.