Do you need a referral for cupping therapy?

Cupping therapy uses cups placed on the skin to create suction. Dry cupping leaves the skin intact, while wet cupping involves skin puncture and needs stricter hygiene precautions. A physiotherapy provider should ask about your pain, skin condition, medicines, circulation, and general health before deciding whether the approach is appropriate. Cupping should complement a clear treatment plan, not replace assessment of a new or unexplained symptom.

Contact the clinic directly to ask whether you can book without a referral, which type of cupping is offered, and who performs it. Tell the practitioner about blood-thinning medicines, bleeding problems, diabetes, pregnancy, broken skin, infection, or a tendency to faint. Do not place cups over wounds, rashes, or areas with reduced sensation. Ask how equipment is cleaned and what aftercare is expected.

Seek medical advice before treatment for unexplained swelling, fever, spreading redness, a new lump, or pain after an injury. After cupping, obtain prompt care for increasing redness, warmth, pus, fever, heavy bleeding, or severe pain. A breathing problem, fainting episode that does not quickly settle, or facial swelling needs urgent help.

Ask what diagnosis is being treated, whether cupping is suitable alongside your current care, and whether dry or wet cupping changes the risks. Ask what signs of infection to watch for and when to stop if the skin becomes irritated.