What Is Cupping Therapy and How Does It Support Injury Recovery?

Cupping lifts and separates soft tissue, enhancing circulation and reducing stagnation that causes pain. The result is faster healing and improved flexibility after strains, overuse, or chronic tightness. Suction boosts microcirculation and lymphatic flow, reducing inflammation and promoting tissue repair.

Eastern and Western Perspectives

In TCM, cupping clears qi and blood stagnation along meridians to relieve pain. From a Western view, it decompresses fascia, increases blood flow, and releases adhesions. Both perspectives agree on one result—improved function through targeted tissue mobilization.

Types of Cupping for Injury Recovery

Common techniques include:

• Dry cupping: Static suction for pain and trigger point relief.

• Silicone or vacuum cupping: Allows controlled, dynamic movement for soft-tissue release.

• Fire cupping: Traditional method using heat for deeper vacuum and circulation boost.

Each method is chosen based on injury type, tissue condition, and recovery goals.

Benefits of Cupping Therapy

Cupping offers multiple benefits for athletes and active individuals:

• Reduces pain and inflammation

• Improves circulation and nutrient delivery

• Releases fascial adhesions and trigger points

• Aids scar tissue remodeling

• Enhances range of motion

These effects help shorten recovery time and improve long-term performance.

Conditions Cupping Can Help

Cupping effectively supports recovery from:

• Runner’s knee and IT band pain

• Rotator cuff and shoulder tension

• Tendonitis and repetitive strain

• Chronic neck and back pain

• Post-surgical or scar-limited mobility

Sessions are tailored to each condition, often paired with acupuncture or herbal therapy for comprehensive healing.

What to Expect at Jade Mountain Health

During your session, cups are applied with gentle suction to specific areas identified through assessment. You may feel warmth or light pulling as circulation increases. After treatment, mild redness or circular marks may appear—these are normal and fade within days as blood flow improves.

Patients are encouraged to stay hydrated, avoid heavy workouts immediately before or after, and communicate any medications or skin sensitivities for safe, customized care.

Integrative Recovery with Cupping, Acupuncture, and Herbal Medicine

At Jade Mountain Health, cupping therapy is part of an integrated approach that includes acupuncture and herbal medicine. Together, these methods relieve pain, regulate inflammation, and strengthen tissue repair—offering both immediate relief and long-term resilience.

Meet Andrew Maloney

Andrew Maloney, LAc, MSOM, is a licensed acupuncturist and Chinese herbalist trained in Taiwanese and Japanese traditions. Fluent in Mandarin, he bridges classical TCM knowledge with modern techniques to provide precise, effective care for injury recovery and musculoskeletal health in Boulder and across the Front Range.

Book Your Consultation

Ready to recover naturally and move pain-free? Schedule your personalized cupping session at Jade Mountain Health in Boulder today. Experience a holistic path to pain relief, flexibility, and lasting muscle health.

*If this is a medical emergency please dial 911

*Not intended to be medical advice. Please seek advice from a licensed practitioner. 

To schedule a consultation, contact:
Jade Mountain Health
745 Poplar Avenue, Boulder, CO 80304
📞 (303) 859-3125 | ✉️ heal@jademountainhealth.com
Bring relevant medical or therapy records to align your treatment plan with ongoing care.