Cupping & Gua Sha Therapy
Restore Circulation. Release Stagnation. Recharge Naturally.
Cupping and Gua Sha are ancient therapeutic techniques that blend beautifully with modern wellness goals. These time-tested methods focus on improving circulation, releasing muscle tension, and supporting the body’s natural detox and healing processes. At Crater Chiropractic, we use both as standalone treatments or as a powerful complement to other forms of massage therapy.
What Is Cupping Therapy?
Cupping involves the use of suction cups placed on the skin to create negative pressure. This draws blood flow to the surface, stimulates lymphatic drainage, and encourages healing in underlying tissues. Many patients describe a deep sense of release and relief from stubborn muscle tension, particularly in areas where tightness doesn’t respond well to deep tissue techniques alone. It’s especially helpful for athletes, desk workers, and those with chronic pain patterns. The suction effect also helps lift fascia and reduce adhesions between muscle layers.
We offer both stationary cupping and gliding cupping, depending on your goals and sensitivity. While circular marks may appear, they are not bruises and typically fade within a few days as circulation improves. These marks are a normal part of the healing process and indicate areas of stagnation being released. Most clients report no discomfort from the marks and often feel immediate relief in the treated areas.
What Is Gua Sha?
Gua Sha is a traditional healing technique that involves gently scraping the skin with a smooth-edged tool to stimulate circulation, break up fascial restrictions, and promote natural detoxification. This practice has been used for centuries in Eastern medicine to address pain, inflammation, and blocked energy (“chi”) that can accumulate in the body. By increasing microcirculation in the soft tissue, Gua Sha helps bring fresh blood to the area and encourages the release of tight muscle fibers and connective tissue. It is particularly helpful for breaking up adhesions, easing muscle knots, and relieving stiffness caused by postural strain, repetitive motion, or stress.
Common areas of treatment include the neck, shoulders, upper back, and jaw—where tension and stagnation often build up unnoticed. Although the technique is gentle and non-invasive, Gua Sha can be remarkably effective. Some mild redness or light petechiae (tiny red dots) may appear after treatment, but these are temporary and signal that circulation is improving. The method is frequently paired with cupping or deep tissue massage for enhanced therapeutic outcomes, and many patients report feeling lighter, looser, and more energized after just one session.
Benefits of Cupping & Gua Sha Therapy
Cupping and Gua Sha offer a powerful combination of natural healing and functional bodywork. Whether used alone or alongside massage, they provide measurable relief for a variety of physical concerns.
Improves local circulation and lymphatic flow
Loosens tight fascia and muscle tissue
Relieves chronic neck, shoulder, and back pain
Supports detoxification and immune health
Enhances recovery from athletic training or repetitive strain
Helps reduce inflammation and postural tension
These techniques are ideal for clients seeking non-invasive, drug-free relief that supports both immediate recovery and long-term wellness.
What to Expect During Your Session
Your therapist will start with a brief consultation to understand your health history, treatment goals, and areas of concern. Based on your needs, your session may include cupping alone, Gua Sha alone, or a thoughtful combination of the two along with massage therapy. Each technique is applied with care and attention to your comfort level, and your therapist will explain the process beforehand so you know what to expect.
Sensation during cupping and Gua Sha is generally mild, though some areas may feel more sensitive. The treatment is deeply relaxing. Mild redness or markings are common and temporary, and often indicate improved circulation and fascial release. Many clients find the results last for days—sometimes longer—with a noticeable improvement in pain, mobility, and overall body awareness.
Discover the Healing Power of Cupping & Gua Sha
If you’re seeking a natural, effective way to ease tension, improve circulation, and support deep healing, this could be the treatment your body’s been craving. Let us help you unwind, reset, and feel your best—book your session today and experience the difference.