Cupping Therapy: Potential Benefits, Limitations, and Criticisms

Cupping therapy, an ancient healing practice, has gained widespread popularity in modern wellness routines, especially among athletes and celebrities. The distinctive circular marks left on the skin have become a familiar sight on professional athletes, notably during events like the Olympics. But is cupping a passing wellness trend, or does it offer real therapeutic benefits? In this blog, we’ll explore the potential benefits of cupping, its limitations, and common criticisms.

What is Cupping Therapy?

Cupping involves placing cups on the skin to create suction. This suction is believed to improve blood circulation, relieve muscle tension, and promote healing. There are different types of cupping methods, including:

• Dry Cupping: Uses suction alone.

• Wet Cupping (Hijama): Involves a small incision to draw out a small amount of blood.

• Fire Cupping: Uses heat to create suction.

• Massage Cupping: The cups are moved across the skin, similar to a deep tissue massage.

✅ Potential Benefits of Cupping Therapy

1. Pain Relief

Cupping is often used to manage musculoskeletal pain, such as back, neck, and shoulder pain. A 2018 systematic review in BMJ Open found that cupping, especially when combined with acupuncture, effectively reduced chronic neck and lower back pain. The suction from the cups may release tension in muscles and fascia, similar to a deep tissue massage.

2. Improved Blood Circulation and Recovery

The suction from cupping pulls blood to the surface, which may promote increased circulation in the treated area. This improved blood flow is believed to aid in muscle recovery by delivering oxygen and nutrients while removing waste products like lactic acid.

3. Reduced Inflammation and Muscle Soreness

Athletes frequently use cupping for faster recovery from muscle soreness. A 2021 study published in Journal of Sports Medicine and Physical Fitness noted that participants who received cupping therapy experienced less post-exercise muscle soreness compared to those who didn’t.

4. Myofascial Release and Mobility Improvement

Cupping can help reduce stiffness and improve range of motion by releasing tension in the fascia, the connective tissue surrounding muscles and organs. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals with conditions like plantar fasciitis, sciatica, or frozen shoulder.

5. Potential Immune System Support

In traditional medicine, wet cupping (Hijama) is believed to remove toxins from the body, though scientific evidence for this is limited. Some studies suggest that cupping can stimulate the lymphatic system, which plays a key role in immunity.

❌ Limitations and Criticisms of Cupping Therapy

1. Limited Scientific Evidence

While there is growing interest in cupping, many studies suffer from small sample sizes or lack rigorous controls. As a result, critics argue that the effectiveness of cupping may be overstated or attributed to the placebo effect.

2. Short-Term Results

Although many individuals experience immediate relief from pain or muscle tension, the effects of cupping can be short-lived without complementary therapies such as exercise rehabilitation or strength training.

3. Risk of Bruising and Skin Irritation

The suction from cupping often leaves round bruises, which may cause discomfort or skin irritation. In rare cases, improper techniques or unsanitary conditions can lead to infection or burns (in the case of fire cupping).

4. Placebo Effect or Real Impact?

Some medical professionals argue that the benefits of cupping may be largely due to the placebo effect. The ritual and sensory experience of cupping can create a strong psychological expectation of relief, which may contribute to its perceived effectiveness.

5. Not Suitable for All Conditions

Cupping is not recommended for individuals with certain conditions, such as:

• Skin conditions (eczema, psoriasis)

• Bleeding disorders (e.g., hemophilia)

• Pregnant women (particularly on the abdomen or lower back)

💡 Cupping in Sports Rehabilitation: A Complementary Tool, Not a Cure-All

At Poseidon Performance, we view cupping as a complementary therapy rather than a standalone treatment. It can effectively reduce muscle tension and promote recovery when combined with evidence-based practices such as strength training, mobility work, and sports-specific rehabilitation.

We often integrate cupping with:

• Manual Therapy: To relieve muscle knots and tension.

• Exercise Rehabilitation: To strengthen weak muscles and prevent future injuries.

• Stretching and Mobility Drills: To enhance flexibility and range of motion.

🏷 Final Verdict: Fad or Functional Therapy?

Cupping is not just a passing fad. It has genuine potential benefits, particularly for pain relief, circulation, and recovery. However, it is most effective when used as part of a holistic approach to health and performance. Like many alternative therapies, results can vary based on the individual and their condition.

If you are considering cupping therapy, ensure you work with a qualified practitioner who can incorporate it into a comprehensive rehabilitation or performance program.

📢 Have you tried cupping therapy before? Share your experience in the comments below!

If you’d like to learn more about recovery techniques or book a consultation with our team at Poseidon Performance, click here.