Cupping therapy studies

Cupping therapy involves placing cups on the skin to create suction, which is believed to improve blood flow and reduce pain. Scientific studies have shown mixed results—some suggest it may help with muscle soreness, pain relief, and inflammation, while others find little or no benefit compared to placebo or traditional treatments. Many studies are small or have methodological limitations, making definitive conclusions difficult. Overall, cupping may offer temporary relief for some individuals, but more rigorous research is needed to confirm its effectiveness and understand how it works.