Many Olympic athletes who competed in this summer's Olympic Games have tried this. According to Google's dictionary, the definition of cupping is a type of Chinese therapy in which heated glass cups are applied to the skin along the meridians of the body, creating suction as a way of stimulating the flow of energy. Some big USA named athletes used this therapy, they include Michael Phelps (Swimming) and Alex Naddour (Gymnastics). I know if you watched the Olympics this Summer, that you had to have seen the huge pinkish-purple circles on Micheal Phelps' back. I kept making the joke that you could connect the dots with him!
According to the article, Alex Naddour said: "provides relief from soreness and pounding that come from Gymnastics." When he spoke to USA Today, the article explained, that he also said, "That's been the secret that I have had through this year that keeps me healthy. It's been better than the money I've spent on anything else. It has saved me from a lot of pain."
The article mentions that cupping is used to treat an array of problems. Problems include muscular pain, joint pain, skin problems including eczema and acne, respiratory disorders like the common cold, pneumonia and bronchitis. It has also been used as an alternative treatment for cancer.
When I was on vacation this Summer, I met 2 male bobsledders, who are hoping to make the 2018 Winter Olympics in Japan, and they said neither of them has tried it but they have teammates who have. Personally, I don't think I would try it. I think I would be in too much pain. I do applaud all the American athletes who do use this type of therapy and all the American athletes who competed this summer! They were all amazing! Would you ever want to try cupping?
