Cupping in Johnston
Muscle tightness doesn’t always improve with stretching or rest alone. Sometimes it requires a different approach. At Herrmann Family Chiropractic, we use cupping therapy to help reduce stubborn muscle tension, improve circulation, and encourage better movement. Instead of pressing down into sore tissue, cupping gently lifts it, creating space between the muscles and surrounding connective tissue.
Whether you’re an athlete looking to recover after training or dealing with ongoing tightness in your neck, shoulders, or back, cupping can be a valuable addition to your care. We often combine it with chiropractic adjustments to help address both the muscles and the joints during the same visit.
How Cupping Works
Cupping is a soft tissue technique that uses suction to lift the skin and underlying tissue away from the body. At our practice, we use RockPods, soft silicone cups that are placed over specific areas and gently lifted or moved to work through tight or overactive muscles.
Unlike many manual therapy techniques that apply pressure downward, cupping works by gently decompressing the tissue. This creates space between layers of muscle and fascia, helping reduce adhesions, improve blood flow, and relax muscles that are holding too much tension. The result is better movement between tissue layers, less soreness, and improved mobility.
What to Expect During Treatment
Most people describe cupping as a pulling or tightening sensation rather than a painful one. We always begin gently, adjust the amount of suction as needed, and check in with you throughout your treatment to make sure you’re comfortable.
Cupping is usually incorporated into your regular chiropractic appointment rather than booked as a separate session. The treatment itself generally takes just a few minutes, depending on the areas being addressed and your individual needs that day.
The circular marks left behind aren’t bruises. They’re caused by increased blood flow near the surface of the skin and are a normal part of the process. Most fade within a few days to a week, and many patients notice they disappear more quickly with regular treatment over time.
Why We Often Combine Cupping With Chiropractic
Chiropractic adjustments focus on restoring movement to the spine and joints, while cupping addresses the surrounding muscles and soft tissues. When muscles remain tight, they can place extra stress on the joints and make it harder to maintain comfortable movement.
Using cupping before or alongside an adjustment can help release muscle tension so your body is better prepared for chiropractic care. This combination is especially popular with athletes and people experiencing muscle soreness, restricted movement, or ongoing tightness.
Schedule Your Appointment
If tight muscles or restricted movement are getting in the way of your daily activities, cupping therapy may be a helpful addition to your care. Contact Herrmann Family Chiropractic today to learn more or ask about including cupping as part of your next chiropractic appointment.
Add Cupping to Your Visit