Cupping Therapy
Cupping therapy uses cups on the skin and gentle suction to lift and separate tight tissue, which can ease soreness and restore movement. A physical therapist at our clinic in Chubbuck, Idaho uses cupping, for patients from Chubbuck and Pocatello, when an exam shows it fits. Matt Krammen, PT, DPT, Cert DN, an orthopedic physical therapist, is among the clinicians who can assess whether it suits you.
How we use myofascial cupping
Your therapist applies cups to dry skin or skin with lotion, and a small hand pump creates the vacuum.
Cups held in place
The cups may stay on for 5 to 10 minutes over an area of tension.
Cups glided across the muscle
They can also be slid across tender, tight muscle to lift tissue away from scar tissue and adhesions underneath. Sometimes silicone cups give a massage-like feel.
Three directions
The most common is along the muscle fibers. Across the fibers is used where tissue is thought to be scarred, and circular strokes finish the session so every area is covered.
Why PTs use cupping and what it may do
Instead of pressing down on tight tissue, cupping pulls up on it. That may help separate the layers between skin, fascia, muscle and nerve tissue so they glide better, and cupping physical therapy is used to relax muscle, release trigger points and ease scar tissue. Some people feel looser right after a session.
Cupping for back pain, neck pain and shoulder tightness is the most common use for our patients, and athletes use it too. We use it alongside manual therapy and exercise as one piece of a plan.
Cupping marks and what a session feels like
The round marks that follow cupping are the part people ask about most.
- Suction draws blood toward the surface, so circles that look like bruises can appear where cups were
- Marks can last up to two weeks, and they fade on their own
- During the session you feel a pulling or tight sensation, and the cups can be adjusted if it is too strong
- Cups stay on or glide over an area for roughly 5 to 10 minutes, and you can go about your day afterward
Who should not have cupping
Cupping is not for everybody. We will assess you first, and we skip it or ask you to check in if any of these apply:
- Wounds, burns, infection or active inflammation on the skin site
- You take blood thinners
- Fragile skin or an active skin condition
Where cupping fits
These pages name cupping as an option:
Related technique, cost and coverage
Looking for cupping near me in Chubbuck or Pocatello? Call and we will tell you whether it suits your problem. For stubborn scar tissue, a smooth hand-held tool can help too: see IASTM.
Idaho allows direct access to physical therapy, so you do not need a referral from a doctor to begin. Some insurance plans, and Medicare typically, may still require one. If you are unsure, call us and we will check your plan.
We accept most insurance plans and verify your benefits before you arrive. Auto injury liens, Medpay and workers compensation are accepted, and there is a self-pay option. Call the office to confirm your plan.
Cupping therapy in Chubbuck, Idaho
Call or request an appointment at our Chubbuck clinic. We see patients from Chubbuck, Pocatello and the surrounding area.
We see patients at our Chubbuck clinic from Chubbuck and Pocatello, Idaho.