If your upper back feels like it carries the whole week, you’re in good company. Long days at a desk, the commute up and down I-15, carrying kids and gear, and heavy days at the gym all tend to land in the same place: the back and shoulders. It’s one of the most common things people ask us about at Total Muscle Therapy in Lehi. This short video shows two tools our therapists often use together for that area: cupping and percussion massage.
What you’re seeing in this video
- A client lying face down with more than 20 cups placed along the back, the shoulder and the upper arm.
- A massage gun working the upper back right next to the cups.
- The massage gun moving to the top of the shoulder, close to the neck.
The clip ends with our Lehi clinic details. It’s about 40 seconds long, so it’s a quick way to see what the setup actually looks like before you come in.
Why pair cupping with percussion?
The two feel very different. Cupping uses suction, so instead of pressing down into the muscle, the cups lift the skin and the tissue underneath. Percussion massage is the opposite: a handheld device delivers fast, repeated pulses into the muscle. Using both in the same session gives your therapist a “lift” option and a “press” option for the same tight area.
Because the massage gun can work in the spaces between and around the cups, your therapist doesn’t have to stop and remove everything to switch techniques. Many clients find the combination helps their back and shoulders feel looser than either tool on its own. Everyone responds differently, so your therapist will adjust the plan based on how your body feels that day.
Who it’s for
- Desk workers and commuters whose upper back and shoulders feel tight by Friday
- Lifters, climbers, swimmers and anyone who trains their upper body hard
- Parents who spend the day lifting kids, car seats and strollers
- Anyone who wants more focused work than a general relaxation massage
Cupping isn’t the right fit for everyone. If you’re pregnant, take blood thinners, bruise easily or have a skin condition, tell your therapist before the session so they can adjust or skip it.
What to expect at Total Muscle Therapy in Lehi
Every visit starts with a short consultation about where you feel tension and what you want to get out of the session. From there, cupping and percussion are usually worked into a deep tissue massage, which uses slow, firm pressure to reach the deeper layers of muscle and fascia. Sessions finish with recovery stretches.
You can book 30, 60 or 90 minutes. Thirty minutes ($70) works for one focused area, while 60 minutes ($130) gives time for the whole back and both shoulders. Our pricing page lists the session lengths and multi-session packs. We’re on 1200 West in Lehi, an easy drive from Traverse Mountain and American Fork.
FAQs
Does cupping hurt?
Most people describe it as a strong pulling feeling rather than pain. Your therapist can change the suction on each cup, so speak up if anything feels like too much.
Will cupping leave marks?
Often, yes. Cupping can leave round marks that fade on their own, usually over several days. If you have a wedding, photo shoot or swim meet coming up, mention it when you book.
Can I ask for cupping and percussion during my deep tissue massage?
Yes. Just mention it during your consultation. Your therapist will decide where it fits best in the session.
Is percussion massage the same as using my own massage gun?
The device is similar, but your therapist can reach areas you can’t, like between the shoulder blades, and can combine it with hands-on work and cupping.
Book your session in Lehi
Ready to give your back and shoulders some attention? Book online and pick a time that fits your schedule, Monday through Saturday. Let us know in your booking notes if you’d like cupping or percussion included.
Want to see more? Find all our short clips on the Total Muscle Therapy Lehi YouTube channel.
Total Muscle Therapy Lehi: Location and Hours
Total Muscle Therapy Lehi
3400 N 1200 W, Lehi, UT 84043
Phone: (801) 615-0042
Hours: Monday–Saturday, 8am–8pm
Get directions on Google Maps · Book online
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