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Cupping & Tool-Based Therapies

The most common place that you might hear about cupping is at a massage therapist's office, but at Buffalo Creek Chiropractic we use cups as well! This versatile therapy can enhance the results of our chiropractic adjustments by further promoting blood flow and healing to a focused area of the body.

Benefits of Cupping Therapy

a table with tray with 12 medical cups on it

At our office, we recognize the value of adjunct therapies such as cupping therapy, and activator therapy. These treatments can work synergistically with chiropractic adjustments to enhance healing, reduce pain, and promote overall wellness. The Basics of Cupping

Cupping, a practice rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine, involves placing cups on the skin to create suction. This negative pressure helps increase blood flow, loosen muscles, and can be very helpful for relieving muscle spasms and reducing pain. Cupping has numerous health benefits, including:



  • Enhanced Blood Flow: Cupping improves circulation, ensuring that muscle tissue receives ample oxygen and nutrients.
  • Relief from Muscle Tension: The suction technique is effective in loosening tight muscles and reducing spasms.
  • Detoxification: By drawing blood to the surface, cupping helps to flush out toxins from the body.


When combined with chiropractic adjustments, cupping therapy can significantly enhance the healing process. It targets different layers of the body - from skin to deep muscle tissue, offering a comprehensive treatment approach. Our chiropractor uses different types of cups based on your comfort level and needs, allowing for a customized approach for every patient.

Activator Based Therapy: A Gentle Approach to Chiropractic Care

Activator based therapy stands out in the chiropractic field for its gentle, precise, and non-invasive nature. Utilizing a handheld instrument known as the Activator, this method delivers a gentle, quick thrust to a specific area of the body. The specificity and low force of the Activator make it an ideal choice for a wide range of patients, including infants and individuals for whom traditional chiropractic adjustments may not be suitable.


Chiropractic for Babies!

When it comes to treating infants, safety and gentleness are paramount. Activator based therapy is particularly beneficial for this delicate age group. The Activator instrument allows for mild and precise adjustments that cater to the fragile physiology of infants. These adjustments can help alleviate issues stemming from birth trauma, reflux, or other early life stresses. For instance, conditions like colic, feeding difficulties, and sleep disturbances have been known to respond positively to these gentle adjustments.



Chiropractic for Special Conditions

In certain scenarios where a typical chiropractic adjustment isn't possible or recommended, such as with osteoporosis, severe arthritis, or in patients with a high level of pain sensitivity, Activator based therapy offers an effective alternative. The technique's low-force nature ensures that patients receive the benefits of chiropractic care without the intensity of manual adjustments. This aspect is especially crucial for older patients or those with delicate bone structures, where more forceful techniques might pose risks.

Medical Cups on a patients lower back

At Buffalo Creek, we always treat the body as a whole. This holistic method ensures that all aspects of your health are addressed. From improving circulation and skin health to enhancing muscle relaxation and pain relief, our therapies work together to promote healing and wellness. Cupping & tool-based therapies allow for a versatile and patient-friendly approach in chiropractic care, and open up the benefits of chiropractic adjustments to a broader range of patients, including those for whom traditional methods are not suitable, ensuring that everyone, from infants to the elderly, can access and benefit from chiropractic care.

Your Questions on Therapeutic Cupping & Tool Based Therapies, Answered!

  • Can I try cupping at my first visit?

    Absolutely! We can schedule these therapies during your next appointment, depending on your treatment plan.

  • Are these therapies painful?

    Most patients find these therapies to be very relaxing. The level of suction in cupping and pressure in massage can be adjusted to your comfort.

  • How often will I need cupping treatments?

    It varies based on individual needs. We can discuss and customize a plan that's right for you during your appointment.

  • Will I have bruising after cupping therapy?

    Likely, yes! This is normal following therapeutic cupping, and the bruising can remain for several days following the treatment. We always recommend drinking plenty of water following treatment to help flush out any toxins and to help with healing.

  • How many cups are typically placed during a treatment?

    This depends on the size of the area being treated. A shoulder, for example, may only require 2-4 cups whereas if we are treating a large section of a back it may require several more.

  • How do I know if cupping or tool based therapies might be a good fit for me?

    As a practice, we pride ourselves in making sure all of our patients feel informed and confident in our treatment plan before it happens. We will discuss all of your options with you, and if one of these therapies might be beneficial to you, we will suggest it! If it is something that you feel strongly about trying, please let us know! We are always happy to discuss different options and answer your questions.

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