What Is Cupping Therapy?

Cupping therapy uses silicone or plastic cups placed on the skin to create suction. While massage works by pressing down into tissue, cupping works by lifting tissue up — separating layers of muscle and fascia, increasing blood flow, and drawing stagnant fluid and toxins toward the surface for the body to process.
 

At Triune, cupping isn't a separate add-on. Both Ashlee and Katie are trained in cupping and integrate it into your massage session when it's appropriate for your condition.

How Cupping Works

Your therapist places cups on targeted areas — typically the back, shoulders, neck, or hips. The suction creates a lifting effect that decompresses tissue layers, increases local blood circulation, breaks up fascial adhesions, reduces muscle spasm, and promotes lymphatic flow.
 

Cups may be left in place (stationary cupping) or moved across the skin with oil (gliding cupping). Your therapist chooses the approach based on the area and condition being treated.

Benefits of Cupping Therapy

Cupping is particularly helpful for chronic upper back and shoulder tension, sports recovery and post-workout soreness, restricted mobility from fascial adhesions, areas of stubborn muscle knots that resist traditional massage, and circulatory support for healing.

What to Expect During a Cupping Session

Cupping feels like a strong pulling sensation on the skin — unusual at first but generally well-tolerated. Most patients find it relieving, especially in areas of deep tension.
 

Cupping typically leaves circular marks on the skin. These are not bruises — they're caused by blood being drawn to the surface. The marks are painless and fade within 3–10 days depending on circulation and tissue health.