What Is Cupping Therapy?
Cupping is a traditional therapy that uses suction cups placed on the skin to create a negative pressure effect in the underlying tissue. Rather than compressing muscle like massage, cupping lifts and separates the layers of tissue, which can release fascial restrictions, improve circulation, and reduce deep muscle tension in a way that differs from conventional massage.
Modern cupping at Physiolab is typically performed using silicone or plastic cups, though traditional fire cupping is also available. It is often used alongside acupuncture or massage as part of a broader treatment session.
What Cupping Therapy Is Used For
- Chronic back and neck muscle tension
- Tight IT band and hip flexors
- Shoulder tightness and restricted range of motion
- Sports recovery and post-training soreness
- Scar tissue and fascial adhesions
- Respiratory conditions including congestion
- Stress-related muscle holding
What to Expect
Cups are applied to the skin and left in place for several minutes, or moved slowly across the skin in a technique called sliding cupping. The suction creates a characteristic reddish or purple circular mark that is not bruising but rather a response of the superficial blood vessels to the change in pressure. These marks typically fade within a few days. The sensation is unusual at first but most people find it comfortable and even deeply relaxing once they are used to it.
Cupping and Acupuncture Together
Cupping is frequently combined with acupuncture at Physiolab. The two techniques complement each other well, with acupuncture addressing deeper systemic and neurological pain pathways while cupping works on fascial and circulatory aspects of the same region. Many patients find the combination produces faster relief than either alone.
Book Cupping Therapy in Vancouver
Available at Physiolab’s Vancouver locations. Covered under many extended health plans as part of acupuncture or registered massage therapy. Direct billing available.