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Nicolo Martinenghi -

On July 28, Italy's Nicolo Martinenghi won gold in the 100-meter breaststroke at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Eagle-eyed fans noticed a series of circular marks on his back, a telltale sign of cupping therapy.

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What is cupping therapy? -

Cupping therapy is an ancient healing technique that is believed to ease pain. Cupping uses suction to draw blood to or away from specific areas of the body.

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An ancient practice -

The earliest records of cupping therapy date back over 3,500 years to ancient Egypt. Cupping therapy was also practiced during the early Han dynasty in China.

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Michael Phelps -

Michael Phelps was among the first swimmers to have the dark circles on his back and legs, way back during the 2016 Olympics.

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Michael Phelps -

Speaking at the time during the 2016 Games, Phelps said, "I've done cupping for a while before meets."

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Why do athletes use cupping therapy? -

Athletes want to ease the pain of overexertion, and, because of the doping regulations, this drug-free method to alleviate any discomfort is more than welcome.

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Alexander Naddour -

In 2016, US gymnast Alexander Naddour told USA Today that cupping was "the secret" to his health. He added: "It's been better than any money I've spent on anything else."

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Andy Murray -

In 2009, three-time Grand Slam champion and two-time Olympic gold medalist Andy Murray revealed he used cupping in the run-up to successfully defending his Qatar Open title.

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Jennifer Aniston -

Cupping isn't just for Olympic athletes! American actress Jennifer Aniston was spotted with faded cupping marks in 2016.

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What does cupping therapy do? -

Most people who use cupping use it to relieve conditions that cause pain. Cupping may ease symptoms of arthritis, back pain, asthma, carpal tunnel syndrome, and even gastrointestinal disorders.

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How does cupping work? -

The suction force from cupping expands and breaks open capillaries under the skin. The body is thought to replenish the cupped areas with healthier blood flow and stimulate healing at a cellular level.

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Cupping methods: dry -

For the dry cupping method, the cups are heated with a flame and then applied to the skin. As they cool, the cups draw the skin inside.

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Modern dry cupping -

A modern approach to dry cupping involves using a suction device to remove air from the cups.

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Running -

Running is like dry cupping, but before beginning the provider applies lotion or oil to the skin. The cups will then be moved in different directions over the body.

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Bleeding -

Bleeding cupping involves using a needle to lightly puncture the skin before placing the cups. This is said to allow for the release of toxins through the blood captured in the cup.

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How many cups should be used? -

On average, providers use between three and five cups, but could use up to seven.

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What types of cups are used? -

Most providers use glass or plastic cups, but may also use bamboo, ceramic, metal, or silicone varieties.

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What to expect after cupping -

The suction force from cupping will break capillaries under your skin and leave red, round marks that should fade in a week or two.

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Does cupping hurt? -

Cupping shouldn't cause you pain, but you may experience some skin tightness during the procedure. After cupping therapy, you may feel bruised and slightly sore.

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Who performs cupping therapy? -

Acupuncturists, chiropractors, massage therapists, physiotherapists, and medical doctors can perform cupping therapy.

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What are the benefits of cupping? -

The reported benefits of cupping therapy include a reduction in pain and inflammation, a decrease in muscle tightness, improved blood flow, and an increased range of motion.

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What are the risks of cupping? -

Cupping is a low-risk therapy, but you may experience bruising, headaches, nausea, fatigue, and burns from heated cups.

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Who shouldn't get cupping therapy? -

Pregnant people shouldn't undergo cupping therapy, as researchers know little about cupping's effects on pregnancy. You should also avoid the practice if you have anemia, a pacemaker, bleeding disorders, or blood clotting problems.

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Is cupping or acupuncture better for back pain? -

According to the American Institute of Alternative Medicine, it's best to use cupping for musculoskeletal conditions and acupuncture for pain management, stress, and anxiety.

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What questions should I ask my healthcare provider? -

If you're thinking about trying cupping therapy, you might want to ask your healthcare provider if the treatment can help your specific symptoms or if there are any reasons why you shouldn't try cupping therapy.

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When should I contact my healthcare provider? -

If you've had cupping therapy, call your healthcare provider if you experience burns, extreme pain or soreness, fever, or signs of a skin infection.

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Scientific evidence? -

While many athletes swear by cupping, the scientific benefits are much debated.

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Scientific evidence? -

Studies have shown mixed results, with some suggesting minor improvements for neck or back pain, while others found no significant impact.

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Final thoughts -

While there isn't a lot of research to back up claims of success, some believe cupping works for them. But while cupping doesn't carry a lot of risks, you should talk to a healthcare provider before trying any alternative therapy.

Sources: (Yahoo News) (The Independent) (Cleveland Clinic)

See also: Alternative medicine—the best therapies for you

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