Cupping is not a stand-alone service at Mandala. It is part of an acupuncture or massage appointment, worked into your session when it fits your treatment.
Your practitioner sets glass or silicone cups on the skin and uses gentle suction to lift the tissue up into them. Some cups rest in place for a few minutes; others glide slowly over the back, shoulders, or hips. With fire cupping, a quick flame warms the inside of the glass to create the suction, and it is taken away before the cup touches you.
Our acupuncturists and massage therapists use cupping alongside gua sha, myofascial release, and other bodywork, often for muscle tension and persistent pain. Many people find it deeply relaxing, and it may help ease tight, tired muscles; the National Institutes of Health summarizes what research has and has not shown.
How to get cupping
Book an acupuncture or massage appointment with a practitioner who does cupping, then mention it in your intake note or at the start of your session.
- Acupuncture: Jake Rockwell, LAc, Lindsey Rockwell, LAc, Al Reed, LAc
- Massage: Hannah Murphy, LMT, Ro Sullivan, LMT, Maco Monthervil, LMT
What to expect
Most people feel a firm pull or a deep stretch rather than a pinch. Ask for lighter suction any time; your practitioner can adjust it or lift a cup straight away.
Round marks are common where the cups sat, anywhere from light pink to deep purple. They can last several days and fade on their own. If you have an event, a swim, or a photo coming up, let your practitioner know so they can plan where the cups go.
Insurance
Cupping happens within an acupuncture or massage appointment, so coverage follows that visit. We accept insurance for all modalities and are in network with most major insurance companies, but each practitioner is independent and not all of them take every plan. Check the insurance chart, then book online, or call 503-758-9760 to check your coverage first.
Questions and aftercare
Not answered here? Call the front desk at 503-758-9760.
Most people describe a firm pull or a deep stretch, and many find it relaxing. You can ask for lighter suction at any point, and your practitioner can adjust or remove a cup straight away.
Usually, yes. Round marks from light pink to deep purple often show where the cups sat; they can last several days and fade on their own. Tell your practitioner about any event, swim, or photo coming up, and ask about aftercare.
Tell your practitioner before your session if you are pregnant, take blood thinners, bruise easily, or have a skin condition, sunburn, or wound in the area. They will adjust the treatment or leave cupping out when it is not a good fit.
Cupping is worked into your acupuncture or massage session. For how it affects the length or cost of your particular visit, ask the front desk at 503-758-9760 when you book.
