Relieve Tension. Improve Circulation. Restore Balance.

Cupping Therapy is a time-tested therapeutic technique that uses gentle suction to increase blood flow, release muscle tension, and promote natural healing.

At Verve Movement, cupping may be incorporated into your acupuncture, massage therapy, or physiotherapy session as part of a customized treatment plan. This technique helps reduce pain, support recovery, and enhance overall mobility for both active individuals and those seeking stress relief or rehabilitation.

Cupping Therapy in Ottawa

Person receiving cupping therapy on their back with silicone cups in a well-lit room.

What Is Cupping Therapy?

Cupping involves the placement of specialized glass, silicone, or plastic cups on the skin to create gentle suction. This negative pressure lifts the underlying tissues, stimulating circulation and encouraging the release of fascial restrictions and stagnant fluids.

By increasing oxygen-rich blood flow to targeted areas, cupping helps the body heal, recover, and restore balance — both physically and energetically.

Benefits of Cupping Therapy

Cupping can be a powerful complement to manual therapy, acupuncture, or physiotherapy. Benefits include:

  • Reduced Muscle Tension & Pain Relief — Loosens tight muscles and fascia

  • Improved Circulation & Detoxification — Promotes lymphatic drainage and tissue healing

  • Enhanced Recovery — Speeds up the body’s natural repair processes

  • Decreased Inflammation — Helps reduce chronic pain and stiffness

  • Improved Mobility & Range of Motion — Releases restrictions that limit movement

  • Nervous System Regulation — Encourages relaxation and stress relief

Conditions Commonly Treated with Cupping

Cupping is effective for a variety of musculoskeletal and wellness concerns, including:

Musculoskeletal & Pain Conditions

  • Back, neck, and shoulder pain

  • Muscle tightness and stiffness

  • Tension headaches or migraines

  • Sciatica and myofascial pain

Sports & Overuse Injuries

  • Muscle strain and fatigue

  • Post-training recovery

  • Restricted mobility or flexibility

Wellness & Circulatory Support

  • Chronic stress or anxiety

  • Poor circulation

  • Detoxification and lymphatic drainage support

Cupping Techniques at Verve Movement

Depending on your treatment goals and practitioner, your session may include:

  • Static Cupping – Cups remain in one area to release localized tension and stagnation

  • Gliding (Dynamic) Cupping – Cups are gently moved along muscle and fascial lines to promote mobility and circulation

  • Combination Treatments – Integrated with manual therapy, acupuncture, or exercise-based rehabilitation for enhanced results

Our acupuncturists, RMTs, and physiotherapists will determine whether cupping is appropriate for you during your session.

What to Expect During Your Session

  1. Assessment & Treatment Planning – Your practitioner will assess your symptoms, goals, and determine if cupping is suitable.

  2. Cupping Application – Cups are applied using gentle suction; you may feel mild pressure or warmth.

  3. Aftercare – Some temporary marks (light circular discoloration) may appear and fade within a few days.

Sessions are safe, comfortable, and tailored to your comfort level.

FAQs

Is cupping painful?
No. You may feel mild suction or tightness during treatment, but it should not be painful.

Are the marks bruises?
No — the marks are the result of increased circulation and metabolic activity. They typically fade within 3–7 days.

Who can perform cupping at Verve Movement?
Only certified acupuncturists, Registered Massage Therapists, and physiotherapists who are trained in cupping techniques will provide this treatment.

Can I request cupping as part of my session?
Yes — let us know at the time of booking, and we’ll match you with a practitioner who offers cupping.

Book a Cupping Therapy Session in Ottawa

Enhance your recovery, relieve pain, and restore balance with Cupping Therapy at Verve Movement. Available as part of our acupuncture, massage therapy, and physiotherapy treatments.

BOOK NOW