Michael Phelps Olympics Cupping

What the heck is cupping?

By Aaron Thomas, Wed, Feb 28, 2024

It was during the 2016 Rio Olympics that Michael Phelps won 6 Olympic Medals (5 Gold and 1 Silver). Beside national recognition for Phelp's outstanding achievements, viewers were asking in curiosity, "what are those marks on his body?". Popularity began to rise on the ancient treatment referred to as "cupping".

What is cupping? Cupping is an ancient method of treatment popular among elite athletes, as well as those struggling with muscle aches and pains. Cupping Therapy, also known as myofascial decompression, can be traced back to ancient Chinese, Egyptian and Middle Eastern cultures.


How does cupping work? Cupping is utilized as a complimentary addition to massage that creates a suction or decompression of muscle tissue. This decompression increases blood flow from deeper layers up to the surface of the skin bringing oxygen and nutrition which aids in the healing process. This negative pressure can also help lift muscular adhesions or "knots" and decrease tension targeting the peripheral nervous or the "rest and digest" nervous system promoting the healing effects of massage.

What are the benefits? Cupping can improve muscle function by releasing fascia, a connective tissue that surrounds the muscles. This release increases range of motion and makes the muscle more pliable for sport and physical activities.

Here at Athletic & Family Chiropractic and Wellness Sport & Spine, our therapist, Aaron Thomas, LMT is not only trained as a massage therapist, but has a degree in exercise science. Whether you are an elite athlete or someone who struggles with basic muscle aches and pain; he can help- Keeping you in the game of life!