What Is Cupping Therapy?
Cupping therapy is a traditional healing technique that uses specially designed cups placed on the skin to create suction. This suction lifts and decompresses the underlying tissue, increasing blood flow, releasing fascial adhesions, and drawing stagnation out of the muscles and connective tissue.
Unlike massage and bodywork, which compress tissue from the outside in, cupping works in the opposite direction by pulling tissue upward and outward. This decompressive action reaches deeper layers of fascia and muscle that are difficult to access with manual pressure alone, making cupping an effective complement to acupuncture, dry needling, and hands-on bodywork.
Dr. Tyler Andres uses cupping as part of his integrated treatment approach, selecting specific cup sizes, placements, and durations based on your condition and treatment goals. Cupping can be applied as a standalone therapy or combined with other modalities within the same session for a comprehensive treatment experience.
YOUR VISIT
What to Expect During Your Cupping Session
Cupping is typically integrated into a broader treatment session alongside acupuncture or bodywork.
Cupping Therapy FAQs
Does cupping therapy hurt?
Most patients describe cupping as a deep pulling or stretching sensation rather than pain. The suction intensity is adjusted to your comfort level. Some mild tenderness in the treated area is normal afterward, similar to the feeling after a deep tissue massage.
What are the marks left by cupping?
The circular marks are caused by blood being drawn to the surface of the skin through the suction. They are not bruises and are generally painless. The color can range from light pink to dark purple depending on the level of stagnation in the tissue. Marks typically fade within 3 to 7 days.
How often should I get cupping therapy?
This depends on your condition. For acute muscle tension or injury recovery, weekly sessions may be recommended initially. For general maintenance and wellness, cupping every 2 to 4 weeks can help keep tissues healthy and mobile. Dr. Andres will recommend a frequency based on your treatment plan.
Can cupping be combined with acupuncture?
Yes. Dr. Andres frequently combines cupping with acupuncture, dry needling, and bodywork in a single session. Cupping helps decompress and open the tissue, which can make subsequent acupuncture or needling treatments more effective.
YOUR PROVIDER
Meet Dr. Tyler Andres, DAOM, LAc
Dr. Tyler Andres was raised in Colorado and has a deep love for the outdoors, for being active, and for helping others live their best lives. He takes pride in having helped individuals for 15 years managing pain and physical health.
He completed his Doctorate at OCOM in Oregon and pursued additional training with internationally recognized organizations.
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Doctorate of Acupuncture & Oriental Medicine (DAOM)
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Licensed Acupuncturist (LAc)
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NCBHAM Dipl. OM Certification
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Institute of Classics in East Asian Medicine
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Neijing Acupuncture with Dr. Neal, MD
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AcuMovement Training with D. McBride
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Ling Gui Qi Gong School with Dr. Liu
EXPLORE
Related Services
Acupuncture
Whole-systems approach to nervous system regulation and musculoskeletal integration for lasting relief.
Bodywork & Myofascial Release
SoTai, Shiatsu, and myofascial techniques to restore mobility and relieve tension.
Moxibustion
Heat therapy using dried mugwort to stimulate circulation and support healing.
VISIT OUR CLINIC
Thrive Sports Medicine, Salida CO
Thrive Integrative Medicine, LLC
139 East 3rd Street, Office #1
Salida, CO 81201
Phone: 719-626-1015
Email: thrivesalida@gmail.com
Monday: 7:00 AM - 5:30 PM
Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Wednesday: Closed
Thursday: Appointment by Request
Friday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Saturday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Sunday: Closed
