Madero Therapy vs Cupping Massage: What’s the Difference?

Madero therapy (wood therapy) uses wooden tools to apply firm rolling/scraping pressure, often used for body contouring and skin texture. Cupping massage uses suction cups to lift tissue and increase local circulation—commonly used for tight muscles and pain relief.

Madero therapy vs cupping massage. what are the differences? Madero therapy (also called wood therapy) is a massage method where the therapist uses handheld wooden tools (rollers, cups, mushroom shapes) to apply consistent mechanical pressure across areas like legs, hips, abdomen, back, or arms. It’s often chosen when the goal is body sculpting, fascia work, and the look/feel of “tight” tissue.

Cupping uses cups that create suction on the skin (manual pump or other methods). In massage settings, it’s typically “dry cupping” and may be moved/glided with oil. The goal is usually tissue decompression, localized circulation changes, and relief of tight or painful areas.

Madero therapy vs cupping massage differences

1) Pressure direction

• Madero: pushes/compresses tissue (rolling + firm pressure)

• Cupping: lifts/decompresses tissue (negative pressure / suction)

2) Typical goal

• Madero: contour + texture + heavy/“stuck” fascia feeling Healthline

• Cupping: contour + pain/tension + tight muscle zones (neck/shoulders/back/legs) PMC

3) What you feel

• Madero: intense rolling, “deep work”, heat/soreness possible

• Cupping: strong pulling sensation; marks can happen

4) Evidence reality-checkCupping has more published research than madero/wood therapy. Reviews suggest cupping may help some pain conditions (with varying evidence quality). PMCWood therapy is widely used, but strong clinical evidence is limited and claims vary by source.

Who should NOT do either

Avoid or get medical clearance if you have: clotting disorders, active infection/fever, open wounds, uncontrolled heart/kidney issues, or are pregnant with complications (always check with your midwife/doctor first). Cupping also carries risks like burns/infection if done improperly and can leave discoloration/marks. NCCIH

Which one should you choose?

Pick madero therapy if you want:

• “Sculpting” feel, texture work, body contour focus

Pick cupping massage if you want:

• Better and faster blood circulation, Relief for stubborn tightness, “stuck” muscle zones, sports recovery feel

If you’re unsure: I always suggest to book 45 min body sculpting massage to start with a gentle test session and measure how your body responds 24–48 hours later. Every body is unique it reacts differently and needs different approach.