5 Benefits of Cupping Therapy Backed by Science
Cupping therapy has gained a lot of attention in recent years, especially after athletes like Michael Phelps were seen with the tell-tale round marks during competitions. But while it may look unusual, cupping has been practiced for centuries — and modern research is starting to confirm why it works.
As a physiotherapist, I use cupping alongside acupuncture and sports massage to help patients with muscle tightness, pain, and recovery. But what does the science say? Here are five evidence-based benefits of cupping therapy.
1. Pain Relief
Pain is one of the most common reasons people seek cupping therapy. The suction created by the cups lifts the skin and underlying tissues, increasing blood flow and stimulating the release of natural pain-relieving chemicals.
👉 A systematic review in the Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine (Cao et al., 2015) found that cupping significantly reduced pain compared to usual care in conditions like low back pain, neck pain, and fibromyalgia.
By improving circulation and reducing pressure on painful tissues, cupping can provide both short-term relief and long-term improvement when used as part of a treatment plan.
2. Improved Muscle Recovery
Athletes often use cupping to speed up recovery after intense training. The negative pressure created by cupping loosens tight fascia and muscle tissue, reducing soreness and stiffness.
👉 A study published in PLOS ONE (Markowski et al., 2014) found that athletes who received cupping reported less muscle soreness and improved range of motion compared to those who didn’t.
By increasing blood flow and reducing muscle “knots,” cupping helps the body clear out metabolic waste products like lactic acid, supporting faster recovery.
3. Reduced Inflammation
Chronic inflammation is linked to pain, stiffness, and poor healing. Cupping appears to help by modulating the immune response and reducing inflammatory markers in the body.
👉 Research in the Journal of Pain (Teut et al., 2012) found that cupping reduced both subjective pain and objective inflammation markers in patients with chronic neck pain.
This makes cupping a valuable tool not only for musculoskeletal problems but also for conditions where inflammation plays a role, such as arthritis.
4. Stress Relief and Relaxation
Much like massage, cupping can have a deeply relaxing effect. The rhythmic suction and release help stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system — the “rest and digest” mode — lowering stress and promoting calm.
Patients often describe feeling lighter, looser, and more relaxed after treatment.
👉 A study in the Journal of Acupuncture and Meridian Studies (Chi et al., 2016) showed that cupping lowered blood pressure and reduced stress-related symptoms, suggesting it helps rebalance the body’s stress response.
This makes it a great option not just for pain, but also for overall wellbeing.
5. Improved Circulation and Detoxification
One of the main mechanisms of cupping is the increase in local circulation. The suction draws fresh, oxygenated blood to the area, helping tissues heal and regenerate. It may also assist the lymphatic system in clearing out toxins and waste products.
👉 A review in Complementary Therapies in Medicine (Al-Bedah et al., 2016) concluded that cupping improves microcirculation and tissue metabolism, supporting both recovery and general health.
Better circulation means faster healing, reduced swelling, and improved overall function.
Is Cupping Safe?
When performed by a trained professional, cupping is very safe. The most common side effect is the temporary circular bruises that fade within a week. These marks aren’t harmful — they’re simply a sign of increased blood flow.
Cupping should be avoided on areas with varicose veins, open wounds, or in patients with bleeding disorders, but for most people it’s a safe and effective therapy.
🌟 Key Takeaway
Cupping therapy isn’t just a wellness trend — it’s an evidence-backed treatment with clear benefits for pain relief, muscle recovery, inflammation, stress, and circulation.
Whether you’re an athlete looking to recover faster, someone with chronic neck or back pain, or simply dealing with stress and tension, cupping could be a valuable addition to your care.
📞 Interested in trying cupping therapy? Contact JN Physiotherapy today to book your session.
📚 References
Cao H, et al. (2015). Cupping therapy for chronic pain: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine, 5(3): 199–206.
Markowski A, et al. (2014). The effect of cupping therapy on pain, function, and quality of life in athletes: a randomized controlled trial. PLOS ONE.
Teut M, et al. (2012). Pulsatile dry cupping in chronic neck pain: a randomized controlled trial. Journal of Pain, 13(11): 1190–1197.
Chi L-M, et al. (2016). The effectiveness of cupping therapy on blood pressure and stress. Journal of Acupuncture and Meridian Studies, 9(6): 327–334.
Al-Bedah AM, et al. (2016). The medical perspective of cupping therapy: Effects and mechanisms of action. Complementary Therapies in Medicine, 24(1): 1–6.