Blake Leeper has cupping therapy done by chiropractor Dr. Charley Fisher in Los Angeles, California, on May 13, 2021. | Source: Getty Images
Cupping’s anti-inflammatory effects occur when the enhanced targeted circulation, promotes the removal of potentially inflammatory elements and encourages fresh blood flow.
The cups can remain in place or are occasionally moved around for those more adventurous for about 10 minutes. After removal, they leave behind the distinctive welts.
Water diver Haram Woo in action in Gwangju, Korea, on July 12, 2019. | Source: Getty mages
High-level athletes worldwide endorse cupping, the technique they credit for their performance. In the US, it is sometimes used alongside acupuncture or massage. While a specialist typically applies the cups, some athletes are doing it themselves.
Phelps has unintentionally become a spokesperson for the practice. Members of the gold-winning US women’s gymnastics team are also among its supporters. Additionally, many in the NBA are enthusiastic advocates or cautious newcomers to cupping.
Swimmers and gymnasts who use cupping therapy claim it helps alleviate soreness in their overworked bodies. Former basketball player Kyle Singler said, “The bruises do look more intense than what they actually feel like. But the benefit from it is really great.”
Kyle Singler #15 of the Oklahoma City Thunder poses for a photo during media day in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, on September 25, 2017. | Source: Getty Images
According to Singler, cupping is used primarily for maintenance and recovery. It is an alternative medicine practice. While it doesn’t provide an immediate response, over time, it proves beneficial for recovery and loosening tissue.
An unidentified swimmer seen with circular cupping marks prepares for a training session at the National Aquatics Center, in preparation for the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games, in Beijing, on August 7, 2008. | Source: Getty Images
Cups used in cupping therapy can be crafted from bamboo, glass, or earthenware. The precise mechanism of cupping remains unclear.
However, some researchers propose that placing the cups on specific acupoints on the skin causes increased blood flow or hemostasis, which in turn has a therapeutic effect.
Ruta Meilutyte competes in the first Semifinal of the Women’s 100m Breaststroke at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on August 7, 2016. | Source: Getty Images
Studies have also cited the use of cupping in health issues such as managing cancer pain, low back pain, and acute trigeminal neuralgia. The therapy has also appeared to be effective on acne and facial paralysis.
Michael Phelps wins the Men’s 200m Butterfly Final at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro on August 9, 2016. | Source: Getty Images
Therefore, dark red circles on Olympic athletes and other celebrities are not bruises or body décor but evidence of cupping therapy. This practice helps in body recovery and maintenance and offers therapeutic benefits.
