From the Guidelines
Cupping therapy has some benefits, particularly in the context of traditional Chinese medicine, as evidenced by a strong recommendation with moderate evidence quality. According to a 2021 study published in Pharmacological Research 1, TCM therapy, including cupping, is recommended for the treatment of severe coronavirus disease 2019, with a strong recommendation and moderate evidence quality. The study suggests that cupping, along with other TCM therapies such as acupuncture and moxibustion, may be beneficial in improving symptoms and quality of life.
Some potential benefits of cupping therapy include:
- Improved circulation and relaxation
- Temporary relief from muscle pain
- Potential reduction in muscle tension
- Possible benefits for certain types of pain, such as back and neck pain
However, it is essential to note that the evidence for cupping therapy is not conclusive, and more research is needed to fully understand its effects. Additionally, cupping should be performed by a trained professional to minimize risks such as bruising, skin burns, or infection. As with any complementary therapy, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare provider before undergoing cupping, especially if you have any underlying medical conditions or concerns.
From the Research
Benefits of Cupping
- Cupping therapy has been used to treat musculoskeletal impairments for about 4000 years, with recent studies suggesting its potential benefits in managing musculoskeletal and sports conditions 2.
- The evidence of cupping on increasing soft tissue flexibility is moderate, decreasing low back pain or cervical pain is low to moderate, and treating other musculoskeletal conditions is very low to low 2.
- Cupping may be effective for reducing pain, with relatively clear evidence emerging for this indication 3.
- Dry cupping has been shown to reduce musculoskeletal pain by increasing blood circulation, activating the immune system, and stimulating the mechanosensitive fibers 4.
- Cupping therapy is considered a low-risk and noninvasive therapeutic modality, making it a potential addition to the arsenal of musculoskeletal medicine 4.
Potential Uses of Cupping
- Cupping therapy has been used as an alternative or complementary treatment for a broad spectrum of diseases, mainly musculoskeletal pain and muscular tension 5.
- Some practitioners use cupping therapy to cure dermatoses, although the most common adverse events occur at the skin level 5.
- While the exact mechanisms of action of cupping therapy are not fully understood, it has been widely used to relieve pain and improve blood flow to the affected area 2, 4.
Comparison with Other Therapies
- Acupuncture, a related alternative therapy, has been shown to be effective in relieving dental pain, postoperative nausea and vomiting, chemotherapy-induced nausea, and pregnancy-related nausea 6.
- Studies on lower back pain, headaches, and knee osteoarthritis have shown moderate benefits of acupuncture, leading some physicians to recommend it as a complementary therapy 6.
- Cupping therapy has been compared to standard medical care, heat, routine physiotherapy, electrical stimulation, active range of motion and stretching, passive stretching, or acetaminophen, with varying levels of evidence supporting its effectiveness 2.