Cupping Therapy
Benefits of Cupping Therapy
✓ Helps reduce muscle tension and tightness
✓ May improve mobility and range of motion
✓ Helps relieve stubborn areas of tension
✓ Can be combined with massage therapy
✓ May help improve local circulation
✓ Customized to your comfort level
✓ Performed by a Registered Massage Therapist
What is Cupping Therapy?
Cupping Therapy is a technique used by Registered Massage Therapists that involves placing specialized cups on the skin to create gentle suction. The suction lifts the superficial tissues, helping reduce muscle tension, improve tissue mobility, and complement hands-on massage techniques. Cupping can be used as a standalone treatment approach or incorporated into your massage therapy session depending on your treatment goals.
Who is it for?
Cupping therapy may benefit individuals experiencing muscle tightness, movement restrictions, overuse from work or sport, or persistent areas of tension that haven’t responded well to traditional massage alone. It can also be a useful addition for clients looking to improve mobility or address specific problem areas. Every treatment is tailored to your individual needs and comfort level.
What happens during treatment?
Your appointment begins with a discussion of your health history, symptoms, and treatment goals. Cups are then placed on selected areas of the body to create gentle suction. Depending on your treatment plan, the cups may remain stationary or be moved slowly across the muscles using massage oil. Cupping is often combined with traditional massage techniques to achieve the best results. The amount of suction is adjusted throughout your treatment to ensure your comfort.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does cupping therapy hurt?
Most people find cupping comfortable and describe the sensation as a gentle pulling or stretching feeling. The amount of suction can be adjusted throughout your treatment to match your comfort level.
Will cupping leave marks?
It can. Temporary circular marks may appear after treatment and are a normal response to the suction. They are not bruises and typically fade within a few days to two weeks, depending on the individual and the area treated.
What should I wear to my appointment?
There’s no special clothing required. During your treatment, you’ll undress to your comfort level, and professional draping will always be used so only the area being treated is uncovered.
Who should avoid cupping therapy?
Cupping may not be appropriate for everyone. It is generally avoided over open wounds, active skin infections, certain medical conditions, or areas where it may not be safe. Your health history will be reviewed before treatment to determine whether cupping is appropriate for you.
Can I request cupping?
Absolutely. If you're interested in trying cupping, let your therapist know. Following your assessment, they can determine whether it's an appropriate addition to your treatment.
Will my treatment be covered by insurance?
When cupping is provided by a Registered Massage Therapist as part of your massage therapy treatment, it is typically billed as Registered Massage Therapy. Coverage depends on your individual extended health benefits.
Do I have to book Cupping Therapy as a separate treatment?
No. Cupping is not booked as a separate treatment. If your Registered Massage Therapist feels it would be beneficial, it will be incorporated into your massage therapy treatment at no additional cost.
Do all massage treatments include cupping?
No. Cupping is only used when appropriate and with your consent. Your therapist will discuss whether it may be beneficial as part of your treatment plan.
