Before we answer the question of how cupping works, your first question may be: Does cupping actually work?
The answer is “yes.”
A recent systematic review (basically an analysis and summary of high quality studies) published in the Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies in 2020 concluded that “dry cupping was found to be effective for reducing pain in patients with chronic neck pain and non-specific low back pain.”
At ProFysio Physical Therapy, we effectively manage and treat musculoskeletal conditions of the extremities such as tendonitis, sprains and strains, with cupping as well. In fact, the clinical value of cupping is no secret and it has been used in treatment for a very long time.
While it is used as treatment by many practitioners and providers to care for their patients, I believe it is particularly beneficial when performed by a doctor of physical therapy or physical therapist assistant because of their vast knowledge and expertise in the areas of movement science, biomechanical analysis, pathophysiology of the musculoskeletal system, and non-invasive treatment techniques.
After all, we are the first line of defense and preferred provider for all things related to movement.
So now that we’ve established that it works – let’s tackle how it works. Cupping is the practice of placing cups onto the skin and creating a suction effect. It creates distraction or stretch to the tissue through negative pressure. This serves to increase blood flow to the area where the cups are placed and may reduce muscle tension, promote cell repair and improve blood flow and tissue oxygenation.
Cupping also stimulates the nerves in the tissue, which sends increased ascending input to the brain to promote improved descending motor output, thus reducing pain.
This concept is very similar to the theory behind other pain relieving treatments such as electrical stimulation and is sometimes referred to as the gate control theory.
However, it is the unique therapeutic stretch to the tissue that makes this treatment distinctly different from other treatments and creates the potential for healing and long term relief.
Instrument assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM), or Graston which is also offered at ProFysio, and cupping can be a very effective treatment combination to treat muscle imbalances and chronic pain.
Cupping is considered a low risk intervention with few side effects other than of course the most notable, bruising.
Cupping can be an effective treatment for conditions like spinal pain and related disorders, sport injuries, chronic pain, sprains and strains, and tendonitis.
Call ProFysio Physical Therapy to schedule your free consultation, or schedule online from a computer or mobile device at profysionj.com to speak with a doctor of physical therapy and see if cupping can help you relieve pain, restore motion, and get back to doing the things you love to do.