Know Before You Go

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know before your first session — about Hijamah, IASTM, and how Mīzān works.

The Basics
Hijamah is an ancient therapeutic practice rooted in Islamic medicine, mentioned in the hadith of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ as one of the best forms of treatment. It involves placing cups on specific points of the body to create suction, followed by small, superficial incisions to draw out stagnant blood and toxins from beneath the skin. It has been practiced across cultures worldwide for centuries and is increasingly recognized for its role in recovery, detoxification, and overall wellness.
Hijamah is known to provide a wide range of benefits including improved blood circulation, reduction in chronic pain and inflammation, detoxification and removal of stagnant blood and metabolic waste, immune system support, accelerated athletic recovery, relief from headaches and migraines, reduced muscle tension and fatigue, and improved mental clarity and energy levels. For Muslims, it also carries spiritual significance as a Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ.
Not at all. While Hijamah has deep roots in Islamic medicine and is a Sunnah practice, its benefits are available to everyone regardless of faith or background. The body responds to the treatment the same way for every person. Whether you come to Hijamah through faith, curiosity, or a desire to perform and feel better — you are welcome here. Healing doesn't discriminate, and neither does this practice.
Before Your Session
  • Fast for at least 2 hours before your treatment
  • Hydrate plenty with water before your session
  • Wear loose, comfortable clothing that allows easy access to the treatment area
  • Take a shower (Ghusl) before your session
  • Pregnant women
  • Those with blood clotting disorders or on blood thinners
  • People with severe anemia
  • Active skin infections or open wounds in the treatment area
  • Those who are extremely fatigued or unwell on the day of treatment

If you are unsure whether Hijamah is right for you, please reach out before booking so we can assess your situation.

According to the Sunnah, the recommended days for Hijamah are the 17th, 19th, and 21st of the Islamic lunar month, preferably on a Monday, Tuesday, or Thursday. These are known as the Sunnah days and are considered the most beneficial times for the practice. That said, Hijamah can be performed at any time when needed — the Sunnah days are ideal but not a strict requirement for benefit.
During & After
The cupping suction may feel tight or uncomfortable but is generally well tolerated. The incisions are very small and superficial — most clients describe them as a light pin prick. The overall experience is much less uncomfortable than most people expect. Discomfort levels vary depending on sensitivity and the area being treated. Your practitioner will always communicate with you throughout the session to ensure your comfort.
  • Eat and drink lightly after your session — wait a few hours before having a full meal
  • Hydrate plenty with water throughout the rest of the day
  • Try to wait until the following day to shower — if you must shower sooner, use mild or lukewarm water only, not hot water, and make sure the cupped areas are fully dried afterward
  • If the skin feels itchy, apply a moisturizer such as olive oil to the treated areas to promote healing and prevent scarring
  • Do not rub or scratch the cupped areas
For general wellness and maintenance, Hijamah is commonly performed every 1–3 months. For those dealing with specific conditions or higher physical demands, more frequent sessions may be beneficial. You will receive a personalized recommendation based on your goals and how your body responds after your first session.
Safety & Hygiene
Your safety is the highest priority. All cups are single-use and never reused between clients. Every session follows strict sterilization and hygiene protocols — sterile blades, gloves, and a fully sanitized setup every time. When performed by a trained practitioner, Hijamah is a very safe procedure.
No. The incisions are extremely small and superficial — they do not go deep enough to cause scarring. You may see small marks or bruising at the cup sites for a few days, which is completely normal and will fade on their own. Proper aftercare further minimizes any temporary marks.
The Basics
IASTM stands for Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization. It uses specially designed stainless steel instruments to detect and treat restrictions in the soft tissue — including muscles, tendons, ligaments, and fascia. The tools allow the practitioner to feel subtle changes in tissue texture and apply precise, targeted pressure to break down scar tissue and adhesions that manual therapy alone cannot reach. Graston Technique is one of the most widely recognized and clinically validated forms of IASTM.
IASTM is effective for chronic muscle tightness, restricted mobility, tendinopathies (shoulder, knee, elbow, ankle), post-surgical scar tissue, IT band syndrome, plantar fasciitis, neck and back pain, sports injuries, and overuse conditions. It is also highly effective as a maintenance tool for athletes who train consistently and want to keep their tissue healthy and mobile.
Before Your Session
  • Stay well hydrated — hydrated tissue responds better to treatment
  • Wear or bring loose, comfortable clothing that allows easy access to the area being treated
  • Avoid heavy training immediately before your appointment if possible
  • Be ready to communicate openly about your pain points, history, and goals
  • If you have any recent injuries, surgeries, or medical conditions, let us know before the session begins
  • Open wounds or active skin infections in the treatment area
  • Unhealed fractures
  • Blood clotting disorders or currently on blood thinners
  • Active cancer in the treatment area
  • Severe osteoporosis

If you are unsure whether IASTM is right for you, reach out before booking and we will discuss your situation.

During & After
IASTM can feel uncomfortable in areas of significant restriction or scar tissue — this is normal and expected. Most clients describe it as a "good hurt" similar to deep tissue work. The intensity is always adjusted based on your tolerance and feedback. Some mild bruising or redness in the treated area is also normal and is a sign that the tissue is responding. This typically fades within a day or two.
  • Hydrate well — this helps flush out released waste products and supports tissue recovery
  • Light movement is encouraged — gentle walking or stretching helps the tissue adapt
  • Avoid intense training for 24 hours after treatment if possible
  • Expect some soreness in the treated area for 24–48 hours — this is normal
  • Apply ice to any area that feels particularly sore
This varies depending on the condition being treated and how your body responds. Acute issues may resolve in 3–6 sessions. Chronic or long-standing restrictions may require more consistent treatment over time. Active athletes who use IASTM as a maintenance tool typically benefit from regular sessions every 2–4 weeks. You will receive a personalized recommendation after your first session.
Practical Questions
Hijamah — $95 · 45 min
Prophetic wet cupping therapy targeting Sunnah and specific points. Tailored to what your body needs every session.

Spot Treatment — $100 · 60 min
Focused treatment on one to two specific areas of concern. Best for a targeted injury, nagging tightness, or a single problem area.

Upper or Lower Body — $125 · 75 min
Full upper body only or full lower body only. Ideal for athletes in active training who want comprehensive tissue work across one half of the body.

Full Body — $150 · 90 min
Complete upper and lower body treatment. For those with multiple areas of concern or who want thorough, head-to-toe soft tissue work in a single session.

Book Your Session

Still have questions? Reach out on Instagram or by phone and we'll get back to you personally.

Instagram
@mizanrecoveryandperformance
📞
Phone & Text
🗓️
Book Online
Book Now