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Cupping Therapy for Muscle Tension

Cupping uses suction cups on the skin to lift and stretch the tissue underneath. At ProCare it is used to relax tight muscles as part of a treatment plan with chiropractic care, massage and rehab.

In short

  • Cups are placed on the skin and create gentle suction.
  • The suction lifts the skin and muscle, which can ease tension and stiffness.
  • Cups are left in place or moved over the muscle for a few minutes.
  • Round marks on the skin are common and usually fade within several days.
  • Cupping is one part of your plan, not a replacement for it.

How cupping works

Your provider places cups on the area that is tight, most often the upper back, shoulders or lower back. Suction draws the skin and muscle up into the cup. The cups can stay in place or be moved slowly over the muscle with a little oil.

Patients often describe it as a deep stretch. It is usually combined with massage, adjustments or exercises in the same visit.

When it may be used

  • Tight neck and shoulder muscles after whiplash
  • Upper and lower back muscle tension
  • Stiffness that limits your rehab exercises
  • Muscle pain from repetitive work

What to expect

  1. Exam

    Your chiropractor checks the injured area and decides if cupping fits your plan.

  2. Treatment

    Cups are applied for several minutes over the tight muscles.

  3. Combined care

    Cupping is followed by massage, adjustments or exercises.

  4. Aftercare

    You get simple advice, such as drinking water and avoiding very hard exercise the same day.

Insurance and paperwork

We accept auto insurance, help with Oregon PIP and workers' comp claims, and work with personal injury attorneys, including letter of protection (LOP) cases. Our staff checks your coverage before treatment. See insurance we accept.

What patients say

★★★★★

"Excellent care from start to finish. The chiropractor is knowledgeable, attentive, and truly cares about patients. The office is welcoming and I always leave feeling better."

Oleg Y., Google review, Portland
★★★★★

"The team is very organized and respectful of your time, and they genuinely care about your progress. They take the time to answer questions, explain treatments clearly."

Ener G., Google review, Portland

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Frequently asked questions

Does cupping leave marks?

Often yes. Round red or purple marks are common and usually fade within several days. They are not bruises from injury, but tell your provider if you are worried about them.

Does cupping hurt?

Most patients feel a tight pulling sensation, not pain. The suction can be lowered if it is uncomfortable.

Who should not have cupping?

It is not used on broken or irritated skin, and some patients who bleed easily or take blood thinners may not be good candidates. Tell us about your health conditions first.

Is cupping covered by insurance?

When it is part of your treatment plan after a car accident or work injury, our staff checks how it can be billed with the rest of your care.

Start with a consultation and exam

Your chiropractor checks what is causing your pain and explains your plan before treatment starts.