If , like us , you ’ve been glued to theOlympicscoverage , then you ca n’t have facilitate but find a series of darkbruised circleson the back of some of the medal aspirant as they run along up for the pool – but what are they ? And do they offer any special competitive or health welfare ? We research the culprit , in the shape of a praxis known as cupping .

What is cupping?

Cupping is an ancient therapy involving small vessels or “ cup ” that are placed on the hide to get fluid into the area . In some version of the practice , animal horns can even be used to achieve this .

A vacuum is used topull the skin upwardsinto the cups . This make the capillary tube in the skin to bring out , leading to the bruise - same effect that we see on the bather . The vacuum can be created using a flame , or in more modernistic practice , the consumption of sucking . The cups bide in place for between 5 and 15 minutes ; this is thought to run more blood into the area , aiding in healing and even the breakage up of scar tissue , though this isscientifically unproved .

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There aretwo formsof cupping , known as ironical cupping and wet cupping . In wet cupping , minor incisions or skin detrition can be used to take out origin or fluid from the body . Dry cupping does not necessitate any blood , but may be combine with massage .

The history of cupping

The practice has roots in Egypt and Macedonia as well as China and India , though the exactorigin is debated . Known as Hacamat in some cultures , acknowledgment of the pattern is admit in the Ebers Papyrus , one of the oldest know medical recording that dates back to 1550 BCE , explainsDaily Sabah .

What is cupping used for and does it work?

There seems to be a myriad of things that cupping is used to deal , including pain sensation , arthritis , headaches and migraine , high blood pressure , and gynecological disorders . However , there is not yet enough high - quality scientific lit to determine if cupping is a successful treatment for these conditions .

Research does evoke that cupping can be beneficial formuscleandlower back painfulness ; however , the evidence is limited . Most do gibe that cupping is relatively dependable and the signature circular mark disappearance after a few weeks .

The cognitive content of this clause is not signify to be a backup man for professional medical advice , diagnosis , or intervention . Always try the advice of qualified health supplier with questions you may have regarding aesculapian conditions .