In physiotherapy, cupping is typically used as an adjunct to other treatment techniques such as manual therapy, exercise prescription, and postural correction. It can aid in the recovery of injuries, reduce chronic pain, and help in managing conditions like back pain, neck pain, and sports injuries. Evidence from professional scientific lead literature that look at Cupping therapy can be seen below.
A systematic review published in the PLOS One journal examined the effects of cupping therapy on pain management. The review concluded that cupping therapy was effective for pain relief in musculoskeletal pain conditions such as back pain, neck pain, and knee osteoarthritis amongst other conditions.
– Systematic Review of Cupping Therapy for Pain Relief (2015)
A meta-analysis, published in BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies, pooled data from several randomised controlled trials to examine the efficacy of cupping therapy for pain management in musculoskeletal conditions. The analysis found that cupping therapy had effect in reducing pain and improving function in conditions like lower back pain and osteoarthritis. The authors recommended that cupping be used as part of a comprehensive pain management approach.
– Meta-analysis on Cupping Therapy for Pain Management (2020)
Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice published a study exploring cupping therapy's role in post-operative rehabilitation. It found that cupping, when combined with conventional rehabilitation techniques, helped speed up recovery, reduce muscle stiffness, and enhance joint mobility after surgery. This study reinforced cupping’s potential role in physiotherapy post-surgery.
– Cupping Therapy for Postoperative Rehabilitation: A 2023 Study
Another study published in BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies in early 2024, found that cupping therapy significantly reduced symptoms of myofascial pain syndrome (MPS). The research supports the idea that cupping enhances circulation and helps in muscle relaxation, leading to reduced pain and improved flexibility.
– Effectiveness of Cupping Therapy in Treating Myofascial Pain Syndrome: 2024 Research