
Your body isn't meant to live in pain - and sometimes, relief comes not from pressing harder, but from lifting away what's holding you back.
At Onyeka Tefari Wellness and Spa, we understand that living with pain or limited mobility can be frustrating—especially when you've tried various treatments without lasting relief. That's why we want to share straightforward information about cupping therapy: what it is, how it works, and who might benefit most.
What Exactly Is Cupping Therapy?
Cupping is a gentle, non-invasive technique that uses suction to lift and separate layers of muscle and connective tissue. Unlike massage that presses down, cupping creates space—allowing tight areas to release, circulation to improve, and your body's natural healing processes to work more effectively.
Many of our San Diego clients are pleasantly surprised by how cupping can help where other approaches haven't. Here's what we commonly see in our practice:
Who Benefits from Cupping? Real People, Real Results
1. For Frozen Shoulder or Rotator Cuff Issues
If reaching for a seatbelt or brushing your hair has become difficult, cupping may help by:
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Gently releasing the tight capsule around your shoulder joint
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Reducing the "stuck" feeling that limits your movement
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Complementing your physical therapy exercises
Typical client story: "After two months of limited arm movement, three cupping sessions helped me regain enough motion to dress comfortably again."
2. For Persistent Lower Back Pain
Whether your discomfort comes from sitting too much, old injuries, or unexplained stiffness, cupping can:
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Ease tension in those deep spinal muscles that are hard to reach
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Improve mobility without aggressive adjustment
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Help break the cycle of tension → pain → more tension
What we often hear: "I've had massages before, but cupping got at my low back tension in a completely different way."
3. After Surgery (Knee Replacements, Spinal Procedures, etc.)
Recovery often brings unexpected challenges like:
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Stiffness around surgical sites
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Sensitivity to direct pressure
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Lingering swelling
Cupping provides a gentle option to:
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Encourage tissue mobility as you heal
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Support circulation when more intense massage isn't comfortable yet
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Work with your surgeon's recovery timeline
4. For Plantar Fasciitis or Tight Calves
If your first steps in the morning are painful, cupping can:
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Release calf tension that pulls on your feet
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Improve foot mobility without painful stretching
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Be surprisingly relaxing despite targeting tough areas
Why Choose Our San Diego Clinic for Cupping?
At Onyeka Tefari Wellness and Spa, we take a thoughtful approach:
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We Listen First
Before suggesting treatment, we'll discuss your specific situation—what's helped before, what hasn't, and what you hope to achieve. -
We Adjust to Your Needs
Cupping isn't one-size-fits-all. Pressure, cup placement, and session length are tailored to your comfort and goals. -
We Combine Wisdom with Science
While cupping has ancient roots, we incorporate modern understanding of anatomy and healing for safe, effective care.
Considering Cupping? Here's How to Proceed
If you're wondering whether cupping could help your particular situation, we offer two options:
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Schedule a Consultation
A 30-minute conversation to discuss your needs and whether cupping fits. -
Try a Session
Many clients opt to experience cupping directly, as the effects are often noticeable immediately.
Either way, there's no pressure—just honest guidance about whether this approach makes sense for you.
Next Steps:
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Call us at (619) 514-6660
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Visit Cupping Massage to learn more
We're here to help you move and feel better, with care that respects both your body's needs and your personal comfort.
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