Cupping & Gua Sha

Cupping therapy

Cupping uses glass or silicone cups placed on the skin to create gentle suction. This draws blood flow to the treatment area, relieves muscle tension, reduces inflammation, and supports deep-tissue recovery. Cupping is commonly used for back pain, neck stiffness, shoulder tension, and recovery from sports injuries.

Gua sha therapy

Gua sha is a manual scraping technique using a smooth-edged tool applied to the skin with firm, repeated strokes. It breaks up stagnation, improves circulation, and relieves chronic muscle tension. Gua sha is particularly effective for neck and shoulder pain, headaches, and areas of persistent tightness.

Common uses

• Back, neck, and shoulder pain and tension
• Sports injuries and post-exercise recovery
• Headaches and migraines
• Respiratory congestion and seasonal colds
• Myofascial pain and deep-tissue stiffness
• Circulation support and inflammation reduction

What to expect

Cupping may leave temporary circular marks on the skin that typically fade within 3 to 7 days. Gua sha may produce light redness (sha) that clears within a few days. Both techniques are generally comfortable and are often combined with acupuncture as part of a broader treatment plan.