Therapist placing cups on a client's back

Cupping Therapy

Overview

Cupping uses suction cups placed on the skin, often on the back, shoulders or legs, and is sometimes combined with massage. Many people find it relaxing, and some use it for tight, achy muscles.

What We Offer

We place the cups, leave them for a short time and remove them, then continue with massage if you would like. Cupping is offered at our Castleridge location in northeast Calgary. We always explain what to expect before we start.

What You Can Expect

A clear explanation:

How cupping works and what you may feel.

Comfort checks:

Suction can be adjusted. Tell us if it is too strong.

Optional massage:

Cupping can be combined with massage if you wish.

Skin awareness:

We explain the marks cupping can leave and how long they last.

Aftercare tips:

Simple guidance for caring for your skin afterwards.

Good to Know Before You Book

Round marks or bruising from cupping are common and fade over time. Please tell us if you take blood thinners, have sensitive or broken skin, a bleeding disorder, high blood pressure or a heart condition, or if you are pregnant. Cupping is not suitable for everyone.

Reviews of cupping find the evidence limited and of low quality, with possible benefit for some types of pain and muscle flexibility. Reported side effects are mostly minor (bruising and skin marks), with rare burns mainly linked to fire cupping. We do not claim that cupping treats any medical condition.

Massage is not a substitute for medical care. Sources: Summary of clinical evidence for cupping therapy: an overview of systematic reviews.

Common Questions

Does cupping leave marks?

Often, yes. Round marks are common and usually fade over days to weeks. They are not the same as an injury, but tell us if you are worried about visible marks.

Does cupping work?

The evidence is limited and of low quality. Some people find it relaxing and helpful for muscle tension, but we do not promise medical results.

Who should avoid cupping?

People who take blood thinners, have bleeding disorders, sensitive or broken skin, or certain heart or blood pressure conditions should check with their doctor first.