By dilating local blood vessels, cupping therapy can help reduce pain, allowing an individual to prioritize healthy movement.
Cupping dates back to ancient Chinese culture, and involves placing suction cups on the skin to create a vacuum effect. Cupping is used to treat a variety of conditions, and it is increasingly being used in the sports medicine setting to treat injuries and pain. In sports medicine, cupping is often used to help athletes recover from injuries such as muscle strains and sprains, tendinopathy, and even chronic pain conditions like back pain. The suction created by the cups causes the blood vessels to expand, increasing blood flow to the area, which can help to reduce pain and inflammation. Cupping is also thought to stimulate the nervous system, which can help to reduce pain and muscle tension. It is a safe and effective technique that can be used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan for sports-related injuries.