My PT has been using the Chinese cupping technique to help free up my fascia and I always bruise like crazy afterward. She said that one of the theories is that it's the toxins in the system from the inflammation and chronic pain being drawn out of the muscles. I'll try to remember to ask her next time if it's supposed to lighten up over time. I know some of mine have, but the really bad sore areas still turn crazy dark every time. If definitely helps though, as long as I don't overdo it with too much pressure. If it can keep some of that pain away, I think it's worth a few funky looking bruises!