Dry cupping and Hijama are often mentioned together, and both use cups to create suction on the skin. They are not the same treatment, though, and the difference matters when you choose.
How they differ
Dry cupping uses suction alone. Cups are placed on the skin, suction draws the skin up into the cup, and the cups stay in place for a short time.
Hijama, also called wet cupping, adds a step: after an initial round of suction, tiny superficial punctures are made in the skin and the cups are reapplied, so a small amount of blood is drawn into the cup.1 Hijama has a long history in traditional and prophetic medicine, and many patients choose it as a Sunnah practice.
What research says
According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health at the NIH, cupping may help reduce pain, but the evidence for this is not very strong, most research so far is of low quality, and there is not enough high-quality research to reach conclusions about other conditions.1 We would rather tell you that up front. Many patients choose cupping for muscle tension and recovery, and Dr. Azar will talk through what is realistic for you.
Side effects to know about
Cupping usually leaves round, temporary marks on the skin that fade over several days. They are expected, and if you see another health care provider in the meantime, mention that you had cupping. Less often, cupping can cause lasting skin discoloration, scars, burns or infection, and it may worsen eczema or psoriasis.1 Repeated wet cupping has rarely been linked to anemia from blood loss, which is one reason Hijama should be planned with a qualified practitioner.1
Who should check first
Tell your practitioner before cupping if you take blood thinners, have anemia or a bleeding disorder, are pregnant, or have a skin condition in the area to be treated. Equipment must be clean and single-use or properly sterilized between patients, because shared equipment can spread bloodborne infections.1
Which one is right for you?
Dry cupping is the gentler starting point if you are new to cupping. Hijama involves the skin punctures and blood draw, so it takes a little more preparation and aftercare. Dr. Azar can help you decide at your first visit.
What it costs in Tampa
At Lavena Health in Temple Terrace, dry cupping is $125 and Hijama is $149 per session, self-pay, with assessment and aftercare guidance included and no membership required. Dr. Chanelle Azar, a Doctor of Oriental Medicine and NCCAOM board-certified acupuncturist, performs every session. Details are on cupping and Hijama in Tampa.
For prices, who performs it and the full list of risks, see Hijama (wet cupping) at Lavena Health.