Cupping to Boost Healing

Cupping therapy has seen a resurgence in popularity in recent years, with many people turning to this ancient healing practice for relief from pain, tension, stress and a variety of health concerns. From athletes seeking faster recovery to individuals managing chronic conditions, cupping is being embraced for its ability to support the body’s natural healing processes.

But what exactly is cupping therapy, and why are so many people—including those seeking natural alternatives - making it part of their wellness routine?

What is Cupping Therapy?

Cupping is an ancient therapeutic technique that involves applying cups to specific areas of the body, typically over muscles, to create suction. This suction is achieved by removing air from the cup, either through a mechanical pump or by heating the air inside before placement. The cups are left in place for approximately 2 to 5 minutes, or in some cases, they are moved around the skin using oil to create a gliding effect.

The purpose of cupping therapy is to relax muscles, break up adhesions in connective tissues, improve flexibility, enhance circulation, and accelerate the healing process. When combined with acupuncture, cupping can be particularly effective in managing various pain conditions.

The Science Behind Cupping

Cupping therapy is currently practiced in over 60 countries, and its effectiveness has been supported by research. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) and PubMed databases contain more than 300 studies on cupping therapy. Research suggests that cupping can help treat a range of conditions, including musculoskeletal pain, infections, headaches, high blood pressure, respiratory disorders, digestive issues, infertility, and skin conditions.

Historically, cupping was endorsed by Dr. William Osler - known as the “Father of Modern Medicine” and a founder of Johns Hopkins Hospital - who recommended it for treating broncho-pneumonia and acute myelitis in the early 1900s.

More recent scientific studies further support its benefits:

• A 2015 systematic review and meta-analysis found that cupping is effective for reducing pain and disability associated with chronic neck pain and low back pain in the short term.

• A 2017 crossover study comparing muscle-stretching exercises and cupping therapy concluded that cupping was more effective in improving cervical spine range of motion (ROM) and pain thresholds. The researchers recommended cupping as a treatment option for neck pain and ROM impairments.

• A study on pregnant women (7–14 weeks gestation) found that cupping significantly reduced the frequency of nausea and vomiting, thereby improving their overall quality of life.

What Causes the Circular Marks?

One of the most common questions about cupping therapy is: “What are those red or purple marks left on the skin?” These marks are not bruises or injuries. Instead, they indicate the movement of stagnant blood and toxins from deeper tissues to the surface, allowing for improved circulation of oxygenated blood. The color and intensity of the marks depend on the amount of stagnation in the tissues—darker marks may suggest a higher concentration of toxins or stagnation, while some individuals may not develop any marks at all.

Interested in Cupping Therapy?

If you would like more information about cupping or wish to schedule a consultation or cupping session, feel free to contact us for an appointment.

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References

• Cao, H., Li, X., & Liu, J. (2012). An updated review of the efficacy of cupping therapy. PLoS ONE, 7(2), e31793. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0031793

• Kim, T. H., Kim, K. H., Choi, J. Y., & Lee, M. S. (2015). Cupping for treating pain: A systematic review. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2015, 1–13. https://doi.org/10.1155/2015/703973

• Chi, L. M., Lin, L. M., Chen, C. L., Wang, S. F., Lai, H. L., Peng, T. C., & Chen, P. C. (2016). The effectiveness of cupping therapy on relieving chronic neck and shoulder pain: A randomized controlled trial. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2016, 7358918. https://doi.org/10.1155/2016/7358918

• Kim, J. H., Cho, H. R., Song, Y. K., & Kim, J. H. (2017). Effect of cupping therapy versus muscle-stretching exercise on pain and cervical range of motion in patients with neck pain: A randomized controlled trial. Journal of Back and Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation, 30(4), 937–943. https://doi.org/10.3233/BMR-150427

• Kheirkhah, M., Setayesh Valipour, N., & Neisani Samani, L. (2018). The effect of wet cupping therapy on the severity of nausea and vomiting in pregnant women: A randomized controlled clinical trial. Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice, 30, 42–47. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ctcp.2017.12.007

• Osler, W. (1901). The Principles and Practice of Medicine (7th ed.). D. Appleton & Company.

About Dr. Joe Phiakhamta, DAOM

Dr. Joe is a licensed acupuncturist and Doctor of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine based at True Acupuncture and Wellness in Franklin, Tennessee. He specializes in chronic pain, allergies, tick-borne illnesses, immune system imbalances, and gut health issues. Dr. Joe integrates Traditional Chinese Medicine, SAAT acupuncture, and herbal medicine to provide personalized care that restores balance, enhances well-being, and offers lasting relief from complex and often misunderstood conditions.