Athletes have long used the Olympics to show off their amazing physical skills. But in recent years, fans have noticed a strange trend: competitors’ bodies are getting dark red circles on them. Fans and outsiders are both interested in and guessing about these marks.
These strange spots don’t just appear on athletes, like Michael Phelps and Jennifer Aniston. But what is causing this strange event?
Cupping treatment, which comes from ancient Chinese medicine, holds the answer. Using custom-made cups to apply suction to certain parts of the body is a 2,000-year-old method that can leave noticeable red marks.
Cupping has been used to help with pain, breathing problems, and stiff muscles. Supporters say it makes the blood flow better, calms muscles and joints, and even reduces inflammation.
Athletes swear by cupping, saying it helps them feel better and heal faster. Phelps, who has won more medals than any other Olympian in history, has become the face of cupping treatment by accident.
NBA stars and members of the US women’s gymnastics team are also well-known supporters. Some people may see cupping as an alternative form of treatment, but its success has won over a lot of doubters.
But how does cupping work? No one knows for sure how it works, but study shows that putting cups on certain acupoints on the skin increases blood flow, which has healing effects.
When you see those strange red circles on a sports star or figure, remember that they are not scars or body art, but rather proof of how powerful cupping therapy can be.
What do you think about using cups to treat pain? Do you think you’d try it? Have you already tried it?
