Cupping Therapy: Types, Fundamental Principles, and Evidence-Based Application Techniques

Cupping therapy is one of the oldest complementary therapeutic interventions, with a history spanning several millennia across Traditional Chinese Medicine and other traditional healing systems. This review examines its historical development, principal therapeutic techniques, and contemporary applications in health promotion, disease prevention, and rehabilitation. A narrative review was conducted to analyze the evolution of cupping devices, materials, and application methods, together with the physiological mechanisms associated with negative-pressure stimulation. Current evidence suggests that cupping therapy enhances microcirculation, relieves musculoskeletal pain, promotes tissue recovery, and supports the body's natural healing processes. Owing to its favorable safety profile, low cost, and ease of application, cupping therapy represents a valuable complementary approach within integrative healthcare. However, further well-designed clinical studies are needed to establish standardized treatment protocols and strengthen the evidence supporting its clinical efficacy.