Massage guns and foam rollers push INTO your muscles — that compresses the knot further and often signals your body to tighten up even more. ReliefCup works in the opposite direction. It uses calibrated suction to lift deep tension upward and out of the tissue, while built-in heat softens the fascia so muscles can actually release instead of bracing. It's not a different version of the same thing — it's a completely different approach.

We get it — you've been burned before. Here's the difference: most tools only distract your nervous system or push tension around without actually releasing it. ReliefCup's suction and heat combination works to decompress the tissue and restore blood flow to areas that have been locked up. It's not about one miracle session — it's about giving your body a reliable tool that works every time you need it.

The circular marks left by cupping are not bruises — they're the result of increased blood flow being drawn to the surface. Unlike a bruise (which is caused by trauma), cupping marks indicate that stagnant blood and tension are being lifted out of deep tissue. The marks are typically light pink to rose-colored, fade within 2–5 days. ReliefCup also gives you full control over suction intensity, so you can start gentle and dial in the level that feels right for your body.

Traditional cupping uses static suction with no heat and no adjustability — you get one level of pull and hope for the best. ReliefCup combines adjustable suction levels with controlled heat therapy, which softens the fascia before the suction goes to work. That means the pull reaches deeper and the release is more effective. If you've tried manual cups or even professional cupping and felt underwhelmed, the difference is in the precision and the combination — not just suction alone, but suction plus heat working together.

You absolutely can — and ReliefCup isn't here to replace your therapist. But most people can't book an appointment every time their neck locks up after a long day, or their back tightens up at night. ReliefCup gives you on-demand deep release at home, on your schedule, for a one-time cost. No booking, no extras, no recurring fees.