Cupping Therapy in the Tucson, AZ, Area
If your muscles feel tight from strenuous workouts or if you’ve been having trouble with anxiety and sleeping, what you may need is a therapeutic cupping massage. Cupping is an ancient technique that uses suction cups to lift and decompress the skin and underlying tissues, helping to improve blood flow, release muscle knots, and promote deep relaxation.
At Novum Massage, we offer modern cupping techniques tailored to your body’s unique needs. Whether you’re looking to speed up recovery, reduce stress, or simply sleep better, you can experience the benefits of holistic healing and revitalization with this add-on service to your massage. Book your cupping therapy session in our Tucson, AZ, location today and start feeling better from the inside out.
History of Cupping
If you’re to learn about the early use of cupping, you’ll need to go all the way back to ancient China, the Middle East, and Egypt. Just like today, cupping was an alternative form of medicine, and the fact that it remains important today shows that these people were ahead of their time. Around 3,500 years ago, female healers across Asia, Europe, and Africa were using fire cupping, and we know this because it is documented in Egyptian hieroglyphics.
Of course, the way that the treatment is provided has changed, but the basic idea that fuels cupping is the same.
What Is Cupping Therapy?
So, with the history lesson out of the way, what exactly is cupping therapy? Ultimately, the idea is to use negative pressure to create suction. Typically, this is done with cups made of plastic, rubber, glass, or sometimes even bamboo.
The Traditional Method
If you visit a facility that still offers the traditional cupping method, they will use alcohol, herbs, or another flammable substance in a cup. From here, they will light the fire to heat up the cup. Once the fire itself has disappeared, the cup is placed onto your body (the location will depend on the treatment and what you’re trying to achieve). By following these steps, a vacuum will follow as the cup’s air cools. As the skin rises, the blood vessels expand, and this is where the treatment comes in.
The Modern Method
While the traditional method certainly comes with some style, it’s not necessarily the most common method now, thanks to the development of rubber pumps. Over time, practitioners realized that they could generate the same results with a rubber pump rather than flames and cups. Not only are rubber pumps effective, but they can also offer a massage effect.
Regardless of which method is used, there are three cupping techniques that professionals may explore with you:
- Cross-Fiber - Used for those with scarred tissues.
- Longitudinal - As the most common technique, the professional will glide the cup across muscle fibers.
- Circular - Normally, professionals will use the circular technique toward the end of your appointment so that nothing is missed.
Benefits of Cupping Therapy in Tucson, AZ
When reading about cupping, you might wonder why people go through this strange process. Firstly, we should say that cupping is completely safe — Novum uses state-of-the-art equipment, and our professionals know how to carry out the treatment safely. Therefore, you don’t need to worry about your own health or safety.
In terms of benefits, athletes tend to use cupping along with a
sports massage because it reduces tension and loosens tight muscles (this helps both during training and for events). Thanks to the suction, body tissues receive more blood and hydration. Furthermore, excess fluids are removed, and the area is left in a better condition than before the cupping. With improved hydration and blood flow, many people also find that inflammation decreases after a cupping session.
Another reason it is used by people who like to exercise is that it encourages faster healing (some also say that the healing is more complete with cupping). Of course, cupping isn’t just for athletes or fitness enthusiasts. When paired with traditional
massage therapy, other benefits include:
Relief from migraines, anxiety, and sleep problems
Loosened adhesions
Relieved congestion
Stretched muscles
Improved blood supply
Cleared stagnation
Cupping Marks and Other Side Effects
When it comes to cupping therapy in Tucson, AZ, one of the biggest concerns that people have is about the marks that the suction leaves behind. If you can spot cupping marks on Michael Phelps at the Olympics, won’t people also notice the marks on your body? It’s not just athletes because many celebrities have been spotted with cupping marks, too.
Firstly, it’s important to note that the marks aren’t painful in any way. Therefore, you don’t need to worry about being overly sensitive to contact. When the cups are first applied, you may feel some tightness in the skin. However, this will soon fade.
The marks will look and feel swollen immediately after the treatment. In the 24 hours that follow, you’ll notice that more color comes through. If you see different shades in your cup marks, this is due to the toxins and tension in the body. Thankfully, the marks will gradually fade. While some marks may fade sooner, they generally disappear for most people after around five days.
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Cupping Points: Parts of the Body That Could Benefit From Cupping
Cupping therapy can be applied to many areas of the body (from the back and shoulders to your calves and knees), depending on the symptoms you’re experiencing and the results you’re seeking. Of course, while cupping is adaptable to individual needs, there are a few areas that are particularly popular — and for good reason.
Back (Upper and Lower)
The back is the most common area for cupping, especially along the spine and the shoulders. These areas tend to carry a lot of tension due to poor posture, heavy lifting, or sitting for long periods. Cupping on the back helps relieve tight muscles, reduce inflammation, and improve spinal flexibility. It’s especially helpful for people with chronic back pain, stiffness, or upper body fatigue.
Shoulders and Neck
If you’re dealing with headaches, tension from stress, or tech-neck from long hours at a desk, cupping the shoulders and neck can be incredibly therapeutic. The suction helps relax tight muscles and improve blood flow to the area, which may reduce the frequency and intensity of migraines, improve range of motion, and alleviate tension-related discomfort.
Legs and Calves
Athletes and active individuals often benefit from cupping on the legs and calves. These muscles are prone to overuse and tightness from running, cycling, or weightlifting. Cupping in these areas promotes faster recovery, eases soreness, and enhances circulation, which is key for flushing out metabolic waste after intense exercise.
Arms and Forearms
For those who perform repetitive motions — whether from typing, lifting, or manual labor — cupping on the arms and forearms can reduce tension in the muscles and tendons. Cupping from our team in Tucson can also potentially prevent or alleviate symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome or tendonitis.
Chest
Cupping on the chest can help people dealing with respiratory issues, such as congestion, asthma, or tightness in the chest muscles. By increasing circulation and loosening the fascia, it can support easier breathing.
Abdomen
Though less common, abdominal cupping can be used to support digestive health and relieve bloating or menstrual discomfort. Gentle suction on the stomach may help stimulate the organs and improve circulation to the core, promoting a sense of overall well-being.
Contact Novum Massage Today for Cupping Therapy in Tucson
If you want to learn more about the cupping process or book an appointment with our Tucson cupping therapists, reach out at any point. With reduced inflammation, improved blood flow and circulation, and a plethora of other benefits, cupping is well worth your time, especially if it’s paired with a
deep tissue massage. So,
book a massage today and add on cupping for instant relief.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cupping
Is cupping therapy safe?
Yes! Cupping therapy is generally very safe when performed by trained professionals. At Novum Massage, our cupping specialists in Tucson follow strict hygiene protocols and customize treatments based on your health conditions and comfort level. We also take time to explain the process so you know what to expect.
Does cupping leave marks or bruises?
Temporary marks are a normal and expected outcome of cupping therapy. These circular discolorations are not bruises but rather the result of stagnant blood and toxins being drawn to the surface. Whenever we offer cupping therapy in Tucson, AZ, we take care to monitor intensity to minimize discomfort and ensure you get the most benefit from your session.
What conditions can cupping therapy help with?
Cupping massage therapy can assist with a wide range of issues, including muscle tension, chronic pain, headaches, sports recovery, healing from an injury, and even respiratory conditions. Many clients also find relief from anxiety and sleep disturbances after regular sessions.
Who should avoid cupping therapy?
While cupping is safe for most people, those with bleeding disorders (such as hemophilia), skin infections, hypertension, or certain heart conditions and diseases should consult their primary physician first. Pregnant individuals or those with thin or fragile skin may also need modifications. Our team will review your medical history to ensure treatment is safe and appropriate for you.
What’s the difference between vacuum cupping and hijama cupping?
Vacuum cupping (also known as dry cupping) involves using a mechanical device or pump to create suction on the skin. Hijama, also known as wet cupping, includes making small incisions or pricks on the skin after suction is applied to encourage bleeding. While both types are offered by experienced therapists, hijama is often used in alternative medicine or detox-focused treatments. At Novum, we focus on vacuum cupping for the ultimate relief.
What should I do after a cupping session?
After your session, it’s best to stay hydrated, avoid intense workouts, and keep the treated areas warm and protected. The marks from cupping may take a few days to a week to fade. During this time, your body continues to process the benefits of the therapy, leaving you feeling refreshed and rebalanced.
Contact our excellent, professional team today - we’d love to get you
booked up for an appointment!
