With rising popularities and sports activities in the international and domestic level, the importance of fitness level is also gradually rising for the players. While the new technologies are tirelessly trying to strengthen the fitness level for the players, some of the ancient treatment cultures are reawakening with the new power. ‘Cupping Therapy’ is one of the big examples where the ancient treatment popularity is growing up, especially in the sports, including the cricket too. In the recent cricket history, some popular cricketers have experienced this therapy to improve their fitness levels.

What is ‘Cupping Therapy’

It is an ancient therapy which is the form of alternative medicine. A therapist puts special cups on the skin for a few minutes to create suction. This therapy increases blood circulation, relieves muscle tension, promotes cell repair etc. Moreover, it can also help to form new connective tissues and create new blood vessels in the tissue.

The origin of ‘Cupping Therapy’

Though it’s getting trendy now, it has a very long history. Many sources have claimed that it has come from China. Meanwhile, Ebers Papyrus, one of the oldest medical textbooks in the world, claims that the ancient Egyptians used this cupping therapy in 1,550 B.C.

The various types of cups for ‘Cupping Therapy’

The cups can be made through various materials. Here are some examples at the following (including ancient):

• Glass
• Plastic
• Bamboo
• Horn
• Copper
• Bronze
• Silicone

Different types of ‘Cupping Therapy’

• Dry Cupping: It is a suction-only method
• Wet Cupping: It may involve both suction and controlled medicinal bleeding

Where the ‘Cupping Therapy’ is used to treat

• Blood disorders such as anemia and haemophilia
• Rheumatic diseases such as arthritis and fibromyalgia
• Fertility and gynaecological disorders
• Skin problems such as eczema and acne
• High blood pressure
• Migraines
• Anxiety and depression
• Bronchial congestion caused by allergies and asthma
• Varicose veins

Side effects of ‘Cupping Therapy’

This special kind of therapy is not for everyone. Before starting this therapy, everyone must need to consult with their doctors. Some of the common side effects of this therapy are as follows,

• Mild discomfort
• Burns
• Skin infection
• Bruises

Cricketers who have already experienced the ‘Cupping Therapy’

While many athletes and other sportsmen have gone through with this therapy, some popular international cricketers have also experienced this special one. Indian pacer Mohammed Shami and English all-rounder Moeen Ali have experienced this special therapy to relax their muscles.

Prior to the 2015 ICC Cricket World Cup, some Pakistan players went through with this therapy. All-rounder Shahid Afridi, batsman Umar Akmal, pacer Sohail Khan were some of the Pakistan cricketers to take ‘Cupping Therapy’.