Sports Cupping
Cupping was made infinitely more popular by Michael Phelps in the 2016 Olympics. Cupping was actually developed alongside acupuncture (2,000 years ago). It was developed to remove toxins and treat stagnant energy in the meridians, allowing the body to de-stress. The western view, and use, of acupuncture is to remove dead cells and tissues in an area and bring in new blood (which has oxygen and nutrients) to the muscles and tissues in the area treated.
Cupping is basically the inverse of a typical massage. While most massage treatments involve compressing the tissues below, cupping has a lifting mechanism separating the skin and the tissues below. Many of the patients who try this for the first time are blown away by the uniqueness of the sensation (in a good way). For those who carry their stress and tension in their shoulders, this is a fantastic technique. For our athletes, they love the promotion of healing and recovery along with the pain relief.
Evidence:
Cupping could be effective in treating the pain and disability associated with chronic neck pain and chronic low-back pain in the short term. "Cupping could be efficacious in treating the pain and disability associated with Chronic neck pain or Chronic low back pain in the immediate term."
Cupping therapy is also useful in various conditions like gout and other forms of arthritis, and back pain. It is also commonly used in reducing pain, and muscle tenderness, and improving a range of motions. Cupping therapy is also helpful in regulating both innate and acquired immune responses."Cupping also exerts a positive effect on regulating the immune system and controlling inflammatory processes."