- What are the marks left after a cupping session?
The circular marks are called ecchymosis and are a normal response to cupping. They result from stagnant blood and metabolic waste being drawn to the surface of the skin. These marks are typically painless and fade within a few days.
- Is cupping massage painful?
Most clients find cupping to be relaxing and therapeutic. While you may feel a gentle pulling sensation, it should not be painful. If any discomfort occurs, your therapist can adjust the level of suction to ensure a comfortable experience.
- How often should I receive cupping massage?
The ideal frequency depends on your individual needs and goals. For chronic pain or injury recovery, we may recommend a series of sessions spaced over several weeks. For general wellness and maintenance, monthly appointments may be beneficial.
- Can I combine cupping with other types of massage?
Yes. Cupping is often integrated into therapeutic massage sessions to enhance results. Your therapist will assess your needs and may use a combination of traditional hands-on techniques and cupping for optimal relief and healing.
Target Deep Tension, Improve Circulation, and Support Healing
Cupping massage is a modern take on an ancient healing practice used to relieve pain, improve mobility, and reduce inflammation. At Balanced Massage, we use silicone cups to gently lift and decompress the tissues, making this therapy an ideal choice for clients dealing with chronic pain, sports injuries, limited range of motion, or stubborn tension. Whether you’re recovering from an injury or simply looking to improve your mobility, cupping therapy offers a safe and effective solution.
Our trained therapists offer both static cupping (cups placed and held in one spot) and dynamic cupping (cups gently moved across the skin). Each session is customized to your needs, helping release tight fascia, increase blood flow, and promote long-term healing.
Why Choose Cupping Massage?
Cupping massage works differently than traditional massage techniques. Instead of applying pressure to the body, the cups create suction that gently lifts the skin and underlying tissues. This decompression effect helps release myofascial adhesions, improve lymphatic drainage, relieve muscle pain and stiffness, and increase circulation and mobility. It also supports recovery from repetitive strain or athletic training, while promoting deep relaxation and calming the nervous system.
Cupping is especially effective for addressing areas that don’t always respond to compressive techniques, such as chronic neck, shoulder, or lower back pain. Research has even shown that cupping can be more effective than some over-the-counter pain relievers, making it an excellent choice for those seeking natural, drug-free pain relief.
The Benefits of Cupping Massage
Our therapists use cupping massage to help clients in several ways. Some of the most common benefits include:
- Decreased inflammation and muscle tension: The suction effect increases circulation and draws stagnant fluids out of the tissues, helping to calm inflammation and reduce tightness.
- Relief from postural strain and repetitive use injuries: Cupping helps break up adhesions and ease the tension caused by poor posture or overuse.
- Enhanced flexibility and athletic recovery: By releasing restrictions in fascia and muscle, cupping improves mobility and speeds recovery after physical activity.
- Support for conditions like tension headaches, knee osteoarthritis, and chronic back pain: Research shows cupping can ease chronic pain and improve quality of life for a variety of conditions.
- Reduction of fascial restrictions and “stuck” tissues: The decompression lifts tight layers of tissue, allowing for greater movement and comfort.
Cupping is also popular among athletes for its ability to aid in soft tissue recovery and maintain performance levels during training and competition.
What to Expect During Your Session
During a cupping session at Balanced Massage, your therapist will assess your concerns and choose the best technique—or combination of techniques—for your body. Static cupping is ideal for deep trigger points or areas of tension, while dynamic cupping can be used to treat larger muscle groups and improve range of motion.
While some experience mild and temporary discoloration where the cups are placed, these circular marks are not painful and usually fade within a few days. They’re simply the result of stagnant blood and toxins being drawn to the surface—part of the natural healing process. You may feel relief after just one session, with continued improvements over time.
Is Cupping Safe for Everyone?
Cupping is generally safe and well-tolerated when performed by a trained professional. However, it may not be appropriate for individuals with certain medical conditions. If you have a bleeding disorder, anemia, clotting issues, or use a pacemaker, consult your doctor first. Cupping should also be avoided if you’re actively experiencing skin conditions such as rashes or psoriasis. If you’re pregnant or have any concerns about whether cupping is right for you, give us a call. We’re happy to discuss your options.
Take the next step in your healing journey—schedule your cupping massage today and discover how this ancient therapy can help restore balance and ease for you.
Cupping Massage FAQs
Prioritize Your Self Care
Buy 5 & Save – Gift Certificates Available
We offer packages to make the cost of supporting your good health even more affordable. Prepay for 5 massages at a time and save.
Wondering whether Cupping Massage is right for you? We’re here to answer your questions.
Tune Up
Five 30-min. massages – $250
Restore
Five 60-min. massages – $450
Maximize
Five 90-min. massages – $650
What Our Clients Say
“Balanced Massage is the only place I will go for a massage. Bethany does an amazing job at loosening up my target areas. I feel so relaxed when I leave. I have recommended Balanced Massage to everyone I know.”
Jessica
“This business came highly recommended by my physician. I find the services offered to be very beneficial—a peaceful and quiet atmosphere and a comforting and relaxing setting. I highly recommend this professional business with high-quality expertise.”
M. Davis