Cupping is a traditional Chinese medicine that has been used for thousands of years, gaining popularity more recently among athletes and active individuals (you might remember Michael Phelps rocking cupping marks in the 2016 Olympics). From reducing muscle soreness to easing chronic pain, cupping is gaining attention for its potential benefits. But what exactly is it, how does it work, and is it really worth trying?
By Dr. Tara McKeon, PT, DPT
Have you ever struggled to bend down and touch your toes, cross your legs, squat to the ground, or twist without discomfort? In today’s world, many of us go from sitting at a desk to sitting in a car to lounging on the couch, leaving little opportunity to fully use our bodies' range of motion. As a result, muscle stiffness has become a widespread issue. According to the Cleveland Clinic, up to 25% of people experience chronic muscle pain and stiffness at some point in their lives. That’s roughly 1 in 4 adults dealing with persistent tightness that affects their everyday activities.
By Dr. Tara McKeon, PT, DPT