What is cupping and why do so many athletes use it?

A centuries old treatment that has seen growing popularity in the last few years. Myofascial cupping is a therapy that involves using negative pressure (suction) to provide benefits to the soft tissues.

Cups (plastic or silicone) are placed on the skin and the air is drawn out of them using a suction gun. This draws the skin and top layer of fascial into the cup. Cupping can be applied all over the body and there are various techniques however the main two used in musculoskeletal therapy are static or dynamic. Static cupping leaves the cup in place for a period of time, this is what leaves the round circles! Dynamic is where the cup is pulled through the skin, which generally does not leave a mark. Each has its benefits depending on the issue or the patient.

What are the potential benefits of cupping?

Increasing blood flow and circulation

Increasing range of motion around a joint

Improving lymphatic drainage

Reducing muscle tension

Reducing pain and discomfort

Like most treatments cupping therapy is best utilised alongside a structured treatment plan to ensure both symptoms and cause are being treated. It can be used preventatively with deep tissue massage to reduce risk of injury.

If you constantly feel tight and stretching gives you no relief or potentially even irritates the issues then cupping could be a therapy that would benefit you. You should always have a full assessment by a healthcare professional prior to receiving treatment.

Who has used cupping?

Michael Phelps (Swimming) - Most decorated ever olympian

Karim Benzema (Football) - World Cup and Champions League winner

Natalie Coughlin (Swimming) - 12 x Olympic medalist, 1st woman to swim 100m backstroke in under 1 minute

Anthony Joshua (Boxing) - Former unified heavyweight world champion