If you’ve ever noticed circular marks on someone’s back after a treatment and wondered what they were from (scary land-walking octopi attack!?), You’ve likely seen cupping therapy in action. Cupping has been used for centuries across many healing traditions and continues to be a trusted method for relieving tension, improving circulation, and supporting the body’s natural healing processes.
At Elevation Massage & Spa, cupping is used intentionally and thoughtfully as part of our holistic health spa approach. When applied correctly, it can be a very effective complement to other sports massage and recovery treatments.
What Is Cupping Therapy?
Cupping therapy uses suction to gently lift the skin and underlying tissues. This lifting action increases blood flow, encourages lymphatic movement, and helps release restrictions within the muscles and fascia. Unlike deep tissue massage, which compresses tissue, cupping creates space, allowing tight or stagnant areas to soften and rehydrate.
Most clients describe the cupping sensation as a deep stretch or pulling feeling rather than pain. While temporary circular marks can appear, they are not bruises and typically fade within a few days. Don’t worry, you won’t suffer those octo-attack scars for long!
Different Types of Cupping Therapy
There are several techniques used in cupping, each of which serves a different purpose depending on your needs:
Dry Stationary Cupping is the most commonly used method in wellness and massage settings. The cups are placed on the skin and left in one spot for about 5-10 min to increase circulation and relieve tension.
Gliding or Dynamic massage cupping involves moving the cups along the treatment area, creating a pushing-and-pulling sensation. This technique is especially effective for larger areas, such as the back or legs, and helps improve mobility. It’s one of the most effective forms of myofascial release.
Traditional or fire cupping uses heat to create suction (a vacuum) inside glass cups. While less commonly used in modern spa settings, it remains part of traditional practices and requires specialized training (*We do not offer fire cupping at Elevation Massage & Spa)
Wet cupping involves small, controlled incisions and is typically performed in medical or clinical environments. This method is not commonly offered in spa settings. (*We do not offer wet cupping at Elevation Massage & Spa.)
The Benefits of Cupping Therapies
Cupping offers a wide range of benefits when performed by a trained professional. Improving circulation, breaking down scar tissue and adhesions while also promoting lymphatic drainage. Cupping is a highly effective modality that supports the body’s natural detoxification processes. Many clients experience relief from muscle tension, reduced stiffness, and improved range of motion after just one session. It’s also commonly used to ease chronic pain, reduce inflammation, and support recovery from physical activity. Beyond the physical benefits, cupping can have a deeply calming effect on the nervous system, making it an excellent option for stress relief and relaxation.
What Do Those Cupping Marks Mean?
Many people ask about the circular marks from cupping. We get it, they can be shocking to see at first if you’re unfamiliar with the treatment. These marks are not bruises and don’t signal tissue damage. They indicate stagnant blood flow, tension, or congestion being drawn to the surface.
The color and intensity of the marks can vary:
- Light pink or red marks often indicate mild tension or good circulation.
- Darker purple or deep red marks may suggest tighter tissue, stagnation, or areas that require more attention.
- Faint or minimal marks can be a sign of decreased blood flow to the area, or healthy tissue. It depends on how long the cups were present in the area.
See the chart below for a visual reference:
These marks typically fade within 5-7 days and often become lighter with regular treatments as circulation improves and tension decreases. Many clients actually use them to get feedback on what’s going on below the surface, kind of like your body’s natural barometer!
Who Benefits Most from Cupping?
One of the reasons cupping is so popular is because it’s incredibly versatile. Active individuals and athletes often use it to speed up recovery and improve flexibility after workouts.
Cupping is also beneficial for people dealing with chronic tension, pain, or long-standing discomfort. The lifting action helps release stubborn areas of tightness, making it a helpful option for those with recurring neck, shoulder, or back pain.
For clients who feel stiff or restricted, gliding cupping can improve mobility without aggressive pressure. Many people also benefit from cupping simply because of how calming it is. The slow, rhythmic suction helps settle the nervous system and encourages deep relaxation.
Is Cupping Right for You?
Cupping is generally safe and well-tolerated when performed by trained/experienced professionals who understand how to adjust pressure and technique based on your body’s needs. It can be used on its own or combined with massage, lymphatic drainage, or recovery-focused treatments.
At Elevation Massage & Spa, cupping is never one-size-fits-all. Each session is tailored to your goals, whatever they may be!
If you’re curious about cupping or wondering whether it’s right for you, our team is happy to help you decide how it fits into your care plan.
Book an appointment today!
These marks typically fade within 5-7 days and often become lighter with regular treatments as circulation improves and tension decreases. Many clients actually use them to get feedback on what’s going on below the surface, kind of like your body’s natural barometer!
Who Benefits Most from Cupping?
One of the reasons cupping is so popular is because it’s incredibly versatile. Active individuals and athletes often use it to speed up recovery and improve flexibility after workouts.
Cupping is also beneficial for people dealing with chronic tension, pain, or long-standing discomfort. The lifting action helps release stubborn areas of tightness, making it a helpful option for those with recurring neck, shoulder, or back pain.
For clients who feel stiff or restricted, gliding cupping can improve mobility without aggressive pressure. Many people also benefit from cupping simply because of how calming it is. The slow, rhythmic suction helps settle the nervous system and encourages deep relaxation.
Is Cupping Right for You?
Cupping is generally safe and well-tolerated when performed by trained/experienced professionals who understand how to adjust pressure and technique based on your body’s needs. It can be used on its own or combined with massage, lymphatic drainage, or recovery-focused treatments.
At Elevation Massage & Spa, cupping is never one-size-fits-all. Each session is tailored to your goals, whatever they may be!
If you’re curious about cupping or wondering whether it’s right for you, our team is happy to help you decide how it fits into your care plan.
Consent of the client is required:
I understand that results will vary among individuals. I understand that although I may see a change after my first treatment, I will likely require a series of sessions to obtain my desired outcome.