This year’s Olympics in Paris, France, have captivated audiences worldwide, showcasing the best athletes from a wide range of sports. From archery and shooting to athletics and gymnastics, the games offer something for everyone. However, one of the most highly anticipated events remains swimming, where 854 athletes from 187 countries are battling it out in the pool. As the competition heats up, a curious trend among some swimmers has sparked public interest—dark red circles on their backs.
Cupping Therapy: A Traditional Healing Method
These unusual marks are not the result of any aquatic incidents but rather a sign of cupping therapy, an ancient healing practice that involves placing cups on the skin to create suction. This suction is believed to promote blood flow, reduce inflammation, and aid in muscle recovery, functioning much like a deep tissue massage. Cupping therapy has become particularly popular in sports circles for its purported recovery benefits.
A Rise in Popularity Among Athletes
Cupping gained widespread attention during the 2016 Rio Olympics when several athletes sported the distinctive circular marks. Gymnast Alexander Naddour even called it his “secret” to staying healthy, stating that cupping was more effective than any other method he had tried. Likewise, basketball player Kyle Singler praised cupping for its ability to aid in muscle recovery and loosen tight tissue, although he acknowledged that the resulting bruises could look dramatic.
The Expert Perspective
Despite its popularity, the medical community remains divided on the effectiveness of cupping therapy. According to Harvard Health, some studies suggest that cupping may offer relief for musculoskeletal and sports-related conditions, though the evidence is still inconclusive. A 2022 review even highlighted the potential benefits of wet cupping (a variant of the technique) for lower back pain. While cupping typically leaves behind striking bruises, it is generally considered safe, with rare reports of complications such as skin infections.
Cupping Therapy’s Lasting Impact on Sports
Though its effectiveness is still debated, cupping therapy continues to be a favored recovery tool for athletes across the world. Whether it’s admired for its benefits or simply a curiosity for spectators, cupping has left its unmistakable mark on the sporting world, especially during high-profile events like the Olympics.
