What is Cupping Massage?

Key Points

☆ Cupping uses suction to lift tissue, increase circulation, and release deep muscular tension.
☆ It can be used as a standalone treatment or integrated into a massage session.
☆ Cupping is especially effective for chronic pain, tight fascia, and detoxification.

Defining Cupping Therapy

Cupping therapy is an ancient healing practice that uses suction cups to create negative pressure on the skin. This technique gently pulls the tissue upward, helping to break up adhesions, stimulate blood and lymph flow, and reduce deep-seated tension.

In a massage setting, cups are typically applied to areas of muscular tightness—such as the back, shoulders, or legs—and may be left in place (static cupping) or moved across the skin (gliding cupping). It’s deeply therapeutic and can reach deeper layers of tissue without intense pressure.

What to Expect from a Cupping Therapy Session

Your therapist will begin by applying oil or lotion to the area being treated. Silicone or plastic cups are then applied to the skin and either left in place or gently moved in slow, gliding motions.

You may feel a strong pulling sensation and warmth in the area, but it should never be painful. Cupping can be integrated into your full-body massage or focused on one area for more intensive treatment.

Most clients feel relief, lightness, or improved mobility immediately after. Some cupping marks—dark circular spots—may appear and typically fade within a few days to a week.

Potential Benefits of Cupping Therapy

Cupping therapy is used to support:

  • Chronic back, shoulder, or neck pain

  • Myofascial restrictions and deep muscle tension

  • Tension headaches and migraines

  • Poor circulation or lymphatic sluggishness

  • Post-workout recovery or athletic performance

  • Scar tissue and fascial adhesions

  • Respiratory support (e.g., chest cupping for colds or congestion)

  • Detoxification and immune stimulation

  • Trigger points and referred pain patterns

It’s especially popular with athletes and clients seeking long-term relief from muscular holding patterns.

Does Cupping Therapy Hurt?

  • Cupping can feel intense, especially in tight areas, but it should never be painful. Most clients describe the sensation as deep pressure with a sense of release.

  • Temporary cupping marks may appear after your session. These are a normal response to the suction and indicate areas of stagnation being released.

Cupping Therapy Techniques May Include:

  • Static Cupping: Cups are left in place for several minutes to target a specific area of tension or congestion.

  • Gliding Cupping: Cups are moved along the skin to stretch fascia, increase circulation, and release muscle tightness.

  • Flash Cupping: Quick on-and-off suction used to stimulate lymph and promote detox.

  • Facial or Sinus Cupping: Gentle, small cups used on the face to relieve sinus pressure and improve lymphatic flow (available by request).

  • Trigger Point Cupping: Focused application over known areas of muscular knots or pain referral zones.

All cups are sanitized thoroughly and used with clean technique to ensure comfort and safety.

Side Effects and Precautions For Cupping Therapy

Cupping is generally safe for most clients, but may not be appropriate if you have:

  • Thin or fragile skin

  • Recent sunburn or skin trauma

  • Bleeding disorders or blood thinner use

  • Pregnancy (unless performed by a trained prenatal therapist)

  • Severe edema or acute inflammation

  • Fever, infection, or illness

If you’re prone to bruising or unsure if cupping is right for you, let your therapist know. The session can always be adjusted or cupping omitted entirely.

Curious to try cupping therapy with one of our licensed therapists? Select any massage, then add the “Cupping” Enhancement.
Schedule your session here →