Dry Cupping Therapy: What does the Scientific Literature & Data Say about it?

Cupping therapy, a technique that has been utilised for thousands of years in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), is increasingly gaining attention in modern healthcare settings, especially in Podiatry. With its rise in popularity, cupping therapy is now being explored as a complementary treatment in podiatry for a variety of foot and lower limb ailments.

But beyond its historical roots, what does the scientific evidence say about the efficacy of cupping therapy, particularly in its use of lower limb aches and pains? This blog aims to provide an evidence-based perspective on the benefits of cupping therapy in the treatment of foot and ankle conditions.

What is Cupping Therapy?

Cupping therapy involves placing cups on the skin and creating a vacuum or suction, which is thought to draw blood to the surface of the skin and promote circulation. This technique can be performed using glass, silicone, or bamboo cups, and can be applied in different forms, including dry cupping (using suction only) and wet cupping (involving controlled bloodletting). The therapeutic claims of cupping therapy include pain reduction, improved circulation, and reduced inflammation.

What does the evidence say?

While cupping therapy has been practiced for centuries, the evidence supporting its efficacy, particularly in podiatry, is still evolving. Below are some key findings from scientific studies that explore the effects of cupping therapy on foot and ankle health.

1. Pain Relief and Muscle Relaxation

One of the most common reasons patients seek podiatric care is foot pain, often due to conditions such as plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, and general muscle tension. Several studies have examined the effectiveness of cupping in relieving pain and promoting muscle relaxation.

A 2015 study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine reviewed the effects of cupping therapy on musculoskeletal pain. The study found that cupping therapy significantly reduced pain intensity in patients suffering from chronic pain conditions, including those affecting the lower limbs (Lee et al., 2015). Another clinical trial published in BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies in 2018 found that dry cupping had a positive impact on reducing the pain associated with plantar fasciitis, especially when combined with other rehabilitation techniques like stretching and physical therapy (Alrahlah et al., 2018). The suction created during cupping is thought to relax the muscles, improve circulation, and promote the release of endorphins, all of which contribute to pain relief and muscle relaxation. These mechanisms are especially beneficial for conditions like plantar fasciitis, where muscle tightness contributes to the pain.

2. Improved Circulation and Tissue Healing

Poor circulation in the feet can contribute to chronic conditions like diabetic neuropathy, swelling, and slow healing of injuries. Cupping therapy is believed to stimulate blood flow, which may improve circulation and accelerate tissue healing. A randomised controlled trial published in The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine in 2012 investigated the effects of cupping therapy on blood flow. The results showed that cupping therapy significantly increased blood flow to the treated areas, which supports its role in promoting healing (Cao et al., 2012).

A 2017 study in the Journal of Acupuncture and Meridian Studies also found that cupping therapy increased local blood circulation in patients with musculoskeletal injuries, enhancing the repair process by delivering oxygen and nutrients to the tissues (Zhao et al., 2017). This can be particularly helpful for podiatric conditions, such as tendonitis and sprains, where improved circulation can expedite recovery.

3. Plantar Fasciitis and Heel Pain

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common foot conditions treated in podiatry, often causing debilitating heel pain. A 2021 systematic review published in Complementary Therapies in Medicine examined various non-pharmacological interventions for plantar fasciitis and found that cupping therapy was effective in reducing pain and improving function in patients with this condition (Xue et al., 2021).

The review concluded that cupping therapy, when used in conjunction with other treatments like stretching and physical therapy, provides a promising approach for managing plantar fasciitis symptoms. Another study published in The Journal of Foot and Ankle Surgery found that cupping therapy was beneficial in reducing heel pain in patients with chronic plantar fasciitis, with improvements observed after several sessions of dry cupping (Alrahlah et al., 2018). These findings suggest that cupping therapy may be a viable adjunct to traditional treatments for plantar fasciitis, such as corticosteroid injections or orthotic use.

4. Reduction of Swelling and Inflammation

Swelling and inflammation in the feet and ankles are common symptoms of various conditions, including injuries, arthritis, and edema especially in pregnancy!. Cupping therapy has been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects, which can help alleviate these symptoms. A 2015 study published in the Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine found that cupping therapy reduced inflammatory markers in patients with knee osteoarthritis, and the same mechanisms are likely to apply to the feet and ankles (Zhao et al., 2015). The vacuum created by the cups promotes lymphatic drainage, which may help reduce fluid retention and swelling in the lower limbs.

Additionally, a study published in BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine in 2016 found that cupping therapy reduced the severity of swelling and pain in individuals recovering from soft tissue injuries (Cao et al., 2016). Given that similar principles apply to foot injuries and conditions like sprains or post-surgical recovery, cupping therapy could offer significant benefits in reducing swelling and promoting faster recovery.

5. Improvement of Flexibility and Range of Motion

For patients with conditions like arthritis or limited mobility in the feet and ankles, improving joint flexibility and range of motion is essential for pain management and quality of life. A 2019 study in The Journal of Pain Research found that cupping therapy improved joint mobility and reduced muscle stiffness in patients with chronic musculoskeletal pain, including those with conditions affecting the lower limbs (Kim et al., 2019). This effect is attributed to the combined benefits of increased circulation, muscle relaxation, and the mobilization of soft tissues.

Is Cupping Therapy Right for You?

Despite the promising evidence supporting the benefits of cupping therapy, it is important to note that it is not a one-size-fits-all solution. While cupping can be effective for certain conditions, it may not be suitable for everyone, especially those with certain medical conditions such as skin infections, bleeding disorders, or severe cardiovascular issues. It is essential to consult with a licensed podiatrist who can assess your individual case and determine if cupping therapy is an appropriate treatment option.

Conclusion

Cupping therapy shows promise as a complementary treatment for various foot and ankle conditions, such as pain relief, improved circulation, and reduced inflammation. Scientific evidence from multiple studies supports its effectiveness in reducing symptoms of plantar fasciitis, improving circulation, and enhancing recovery from injuries. While more research is needed to fully understand the long-term benefits of cupping therapy in podiatric care, current findings suggest it can be a valuable tool in managing chronic foot pain and promoting healing. If you are experiencing foot discomfort or other podiatric issues, consider discussing cupping therapy with your healthcare provider to see if it may complement your treatment plan.

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