There are as many names for cupping as there are instruments with which to perform it!  Myofascial cupping, fire cupping, bamboo cupping.. well, it is all lovely and effective.  Cupping is the practice of placing suctioned cups on the surface of the body to create a vacuum which lifts and separates the superficial layers of tissue to create an increased blood flow.  You know you have had cupping if you have light circle shaped discoloration strategically mapped out on your body. 

Cupping is great for pain, tension and circulation problems.  It creates an increased blood flow to the tissue which helps to bring in needed nutrients for healing and to take out the gunk that makes muscles sore.  It also has mild detoxifying effects.  It is an excellent adjunctive therapy along side both massage and acupuncture.