Cupping is a type of therapy that uses suction on the skin to facilitate blood circulation, which promotes cell repair and regeneration. It does this by loosening connective tissue (fascia) so that stimulated blood flows to the surface. There are many benefits associated with cupping therapy, such as pain relief and muscle relaxation.
A 2012 review of studies suggests cupping therapy may be helpful for these and other conditions:
- Shingles (Herpes Zoster, Varicella-zoster)
- Facial Paralysis (e.g., Bell's Palsy)
- Cough & Dyspnea (Shortness of Breath)
- Back Pain, Neck Pain, Knee Pain & Shoulder Pain
- Cervical Spondylosis
- Muscle Pain & Soreness
- Sports Injuries
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
- Headaches & Migraines
- Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)
- Osteoarthritis (OA)
- Fibromyalgia
Cupping dates back over 2,000 years as traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) but received recent attention due to its use by world-class athletes for injury relief. It is now widely used as complementary and alternative medicine (CAM). Cupping is safe and can be used to complement what you are doing in your physical therapy routine.
