Static & Moving Cupping Therapy

 

Cupping therapy is an effective technique used to reduce pain, improve mobility, and support soft tissue recovery. At Chelsea Massage & Yoga (currently only with Miriam), we offer both moving cupping with silicone cups and static cupping with vacuum plastic cups.

 

Cupping can be scheduled as its own focused session or incorporated into our Integrative Massage service, which allows us to combine cupping with orthopedic massage, stretching, and other therapeutic techniques based on your needs.

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Our work is informed by advanced training in orthopedic cupping, including coursework with Dr. Joi Edwards, a leading educator in evidence-informed cupping for musculoskeletal conditions.

 

What Is Cupping?

 

Unlike traditional massage, which compresses tissue, cupping creates gentle negative pressure to lift and decompress fascia and muscle. This approach can:

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• Improve circulation

• Reduce fascial restriction

• Decrease muscular tension

• Support lymphatic flow

• Enhance range of motion

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Cupping is especially helpful for chronic tightness, overuse patterns, and areas that feel dense or restricted.

ving Cuppin (Silicone Cups)Moving cupping uses flexible silicone cups in various sizes. After applying oil or lotion, the cup is placed on the skin and gently glided along muscles and fascial lines.

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Benefits of moving cupping include:

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• Broad fascial release

• Increased blood flow

• Improved tissue glide

• Enhanced flexibility

 

This method works particularly well for larger muscle groups such as the back, shoulders, IT bands, hamstrings, and calves. Because the cups are continuously moving, markings are typically mild.

Moving cupping is often incorporated into Integrative Massage sessions, allowing decompression to blend seamlessly with manual therapy and assisted stretching.

 

Static Cupping (Vacuum Plastic Cups)

Static cupping uses rigid plastic cups with a manual pump to create controlled suction. The cups remain in place for several minutes to target specific areas of tension.

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Benefits of static cupping include:

• Focused decompression of tight or painful spots

• Relief of stubborn muscular knots

• Reduced joint compression

• Increased localized circulation

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Temporary circular marks may appear and usually fade within a few days. Suction is always adjusted carefully for comfort and safety.

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Static cupping can be a standalone treatment or integrated into an Integrative Massage session for a more comprehensive approach.

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Othopedic Cupping Approach

Cupping is applied strategically and assessment-informed. Sessions may include:

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• Movement and postural evaluation

• Targeted cup placement based on pain patterns

• Static cupping followed by moving cupping

• Active movement while cups are applied

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Advanced training with Dr. Joi Edwards has supported us to create a structured, anatomy-based approach that blends traditional cupping with modern orthopedic principles.

 

Who Benefits from Cupping?

 

Cupping therapy may benefit:

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• Athletes and active adults

• Clients with chronic neck, shoulder, or low back pain

• Desk workers with postural strain

• Individuals with repetitive movement patterns

• Yoga practitioners experiencing overuse tension

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When applied with lighter suction, cupping may also support lymphatic movement and recovery.

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Integrating Cupping Into Your Treatment Plan

 

For many clients, the most effective approach is combining cupping with other techniques inside a customized Integrative Massage session. This allows us to use:

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• Orthopedic assessment

• Therapeutic massage

• Cupping (static or moving)

• Active Isolated Stretching

• Mobility-based techniques

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Whether you choose a dedicated cupping session or include it within Integrative Massage, each treatment is personalized to support lasting pain relief, improved mobility, and better overall function.

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