What to Know About Cupping Therapy for Arthritic Knees

You might ask if cupping therapy can help your knees feel better. In one study, almost half of people with knee arthritis felt better after 12 weeks.

Ten out of twenty-one people said they improved. Many people want to know if it works, if it is safe, and what happens during a session.

You should get clear answers before you try something new for your knees.

Key Takeaways

• Cupping therapy can help lower knee pain. It can also help you move your knee better if you have knee arthritis. Most people only get small side effects like bruises.
• Serious problems do not happen often. Talk to your doctor before you try cupping therapy. This is very important if you already have health problems.
• Cupping therapy helps by making more blood flow to the knee. It also helps relax tight muscles near your knee. There are different types of cupping.
• Dry cupping and wet cupping help knee arthritis in different ways. After cupping, drink a lot of water. Do not use hot or cold packs to help your knee heal.
• You can use cupping therapy with other treatments. Physical therapy can work better when used with cupping. Always pick a trained person to do your cupping therapy. This keeps you safe and makes sure it works well.

Cupping Therapy for Arthritic Knees

Effectiveness

You might wonder what cupping therapy does for knee arthritis. Many studies say it can help with pain and movement. Some research shows cupping therapy gives short-term pain relief.

Sometimes, it works better than regular medicine or care. You may feel less pain and move easier after two to eight weeks. Studies with good quality support cupping therapy for joint pain, especially knee osteoarthritis.

If you want to know why cupping therapy is special, compare it to other treatments. Three studies found people had less pain with cupping therapy than with medicine alone. You may find it helps you move better and feel less stiff.

Safety

Safety is important when you try new treatments. Most people only get mild side effects like bruises or skin marks. Rarely, some people have serious rheumatic reactions, so watch for strange symptoms.

Experts say not to use cupping therapy on nerves, arteries, varicose veins, open wounds, lymph nodes, eyes, inflamed skin, broken bones, or deep vein thrombosis. Always make sure cups and tools are clean before using them.

• Clean all tools after each session.
• Ask a doctor before you start, especially if you have health problems.
• Watch for skin changes or pain that lasts too long.

If you worry about side effects, talk to your doctor first. They can help you decide if cupping therapy is safe for your knees.

Who Benefits

You may benefit from cupping therapy if you have knee osteoarthritis and want something besides medicine. Studies show people with this condition often feel less pain after treatment.

If you have mild or moderate symptoms and want to move better, cupping therapy may help. People without open wounds, bad inflammation, or blood vessel problems near the knee are better candidates.

You should always ask your doctor before starting cupping therapy. They can help you decide if this treatment is right for you.

What Is Cupping Therapy?

Cupping therapy is a treatment that uses special cups to create suction on your skin. People have used this method for thousands of years to help with pain and other health problems. You may see it in many cultures, including ancient Egypt, China, and the Middle East.

How It Works

When you try cupping therapy, a trained person places cups on your skin. The cups pull your skin up, which can increase blood flow and help your body heal. Here are some ways experts think cupping therapy helps with knee arthritis:

• The suction may activate nerves in your skin, which can block pain signals. This idea is called the Pain-Gate Theory.
• Cupping can create a mild irritation that helps your body release natural painkillers.
• Some people believe cupping helps remove toxins and heavy metals from your blood.
• The process may help your body release chemicals that reduce pain and swelling.
• Cupping might also help your immune system by lowering harmful substances in your body.

Cupping therapy may help reduce pain and swelling by changing how your nerves and immune system work.

Types for Knees

You can choose from different types of cupping for your knees. Each type works in a special way to help with pain and stiffness.

Dry Cupping

Dry cupping is the most common type. A therapist places cups on your skin and creates suction. This method increases blood flow and relaxes tight muscles around your knee. You may feel less stiff and more comfortable after a session.

Wet Cupping

Wet cupping uses a small needle or blade to make tiny cuts on your skin before placing the cup. The suction then draws out a small amount of blood.

This method aims to remove toxins and reduce swelling. Some people with chronic knee pain find this helpful.

Here is a table that shows how different cupping methods target knee arthritis:

Targeting Knee Arthritis

Cupping therapy targets knee arthritis by focusing on the muscles and tissues around your knee joint. The suction from the cups can:

• Improve blood flow to the area.
• Reduce swelling and stiffness.
• Help your body release natural painkillers.
• Relax tight muscles that make movement hard.

You may notice less pain and better movement after a few sessions. Many people with knee arthritis use cupping therapy as part of their care plan.

Treatment Process

Step-by-Step

You might wonder what happens during cupping therapy for knees. The process has easy steps to follow. First, you sit or lie down so you feel relaxed.

The practitioner cleans the skin around your knee. They pick the right cup and may put oil on your skin. The oil helps the cups stick and slide better.

Then, the practitioner puts the cups on your knee. They use a pump or heat to make suction. The cups stay on your skin for five to fifteen minutes.

Sometimes, the cups are moved gently over your knee. This helps reach bigger muscles. After the session, the cups come off and your skin gets cleaned again.

Here is a simple list of what happens:

1. Sit or lie down in a comfy spot.
2. The practitioner cleans your knee area.
3. Oil might be put on your skin.
4. Cups are placed and suction is made.
5. Cups stay on your knee for a few minutes.
6. Cups are taken off and your skin is cleaned.

You can ask the practitioner to explain each step. This can help you feel calm and ready.

Who Performs It

You should find a trained practitioner for cupping therapy. Many have special training for this treatment.

Practitioners can be physical therapists, massage therapists, or chiropractors. They may have certificates that show they learned myofascial cupping. These classes teach ways to help with pain and healing.

• Practitioners can be physical therapists, massage therapists, or chiropractors.
• Many finish a MyoFascial Cupping Certificate Course.
• This course is approved for rehab professionals’ education.

You can ask about your practitioner’s training before your session.

What to Expect

Sensations

During cupping therapy, you may feel different things on your knee. Some people feel a light tingling or gentle pull on their skin.

You might see small marks or bruises where the cups were. Most people say they feel better after the treatment.

Aftereffects

After your session, you may feel mild soreness or redness where the cups touched your skin. These effects usually go away in a few days.

Bruising is common but fades soon. Some people feel a little dizzy, especially if it is their first time. Rest and drinking water can help with this. Mild nausea can happen but does not last long.

• Mild soreness and redness where the cups were
• Bruising that goes away in a few days
• Brief dizziness, helped by rest and water
• Mild nausea that passes quickly

If you feel strong or lasting pain, call your healthcare provider.

Benefits of Cupping Therapy

Pain Relief

You may notice less pain in your knees after trying cupping therapy. Many people use this treatment to help with pain from arthritis.

Some individuals say their knees feel better and less sore. You might find relief from symptoms of arthritis, including rheumatoid arthritis.

Here are some things people report:

• Less pain in the knee joint
• Easier movement during daily activities
• Relief from aching or throbbing sensations

Many people feel more comfortable after a session. You may find that pain does not bother you as much when you walk or climb stairs.

Clinical trials show mixed results. Some studies say the benefit is weak. Researchers found that the trials did not use strong methods.

One review in 2017 looked at seven studies and found only a small improvement in knee function. Dr. Eric M. Ruderman said the studies were not well designed. You should know that pain relief may not last long or work for everyone.

Reduced Stiffness

You may feel less stiffness in your knees after cupping therapy. Stiffness can make it hard to bend or straighten your leg.

Some studies measured changes in knee movement and flexibility. The results show small improvements in how far you can move your leg.

The table below shows what researchers found:

You may notice your knee feels looser and easier to move. Some people say they can stretch or bend their leg with less effort. The changes may be small, but you could find it easier to get up from a chair or walk.

Improved Mobility

You may find it easier to move your knee after cupping therapy. Mobility means how well you can walk, climb stairs, or do daily tasks. Some people say they can move better and feel less limited. You might notice:

• Smoother walking
• Easier bending and straightening of the knee
• Less trouble getting up or sitting down

Improved mobility can help you stay active and do more things you enjoy. You may feel more confident when you move.

Researchers say the improvement in mobility is small. The studies do not show big changes, but some people feel better after treatment. You should try to notice how your knee feels before and after a session.

Inflammation Reduction

You may notice less swelling in your knees after cupping therapy. Inflammation makes your knee feel hot, puffy, and sore.

Cupping therapy helps your body calm down these signs. The suction from the cups draws blood to the area. This extra blood brings nutrients and helps remove waste. Your knee may look less red and feel cooler.

Many people with knee arthritis have inflammation that limits movement. Cupping therapy can help lower this swelling. You may find it easier to bend your knee or walk. Some people say their knees feel lighter and less stiff.

If you see less swelling after cupping, you may find daily tasks easier. You can try walking, climbing stairs, or stretching with less pain.

Here is a quick look at what inflammation reduction means for you:

Cupping therapy gives your knee a chance to heal. You may feel more comfortable and active.

Muscular Pain Relief

You may feel less muscle pain around your knee after cupping therapy. This treatment helps relax tight muscles and makes movement easier.

The cups create gentle suction that loosens knots and tension. Your muscles get more blood, which helps them heal and feel better.

Cupping therapy also boosts flexibility. You may stretch or bend your knee with less effort. The therapy improves blood flow and helps your body remove waste. This process can lower swelling and pressure around your knee.

Many people with knee arthritis have sore muscles. Cupping therapy helps release this pain. You may notice less stiffness and more comfort during daily activities.

If you have tight muscles, cupping therapy may help you move with less pain and more freedom.

Here are some ways cupping therapy helps with muscular pain:

• Relaxes tight muscles around the knee
• Improves flexibility and movement
• Boosts blood flow for faster healing
• Enhances lymphatic drainage to lower swelling

You may find that your knee feels stronger and less sore. Cupping therapy gives you a chance to enjoy walking, stretching, and moving without constant pain.

Risks and Limitations

Side Effects

After cupping therapy, you might see some changes on your skin. Most people get mild side effects. Bruising is very common and goes away in a few days.

You could feel sore or see redness where the cups were. Some people feel dizzy or lightheaded right after treatment.

Sometimes, blisters or strong pain can happen, but this is rare. If you notice these signs, rest and drink water. Most side effects do not last long.

If you have strong pain or blisters, call your healthcare provider.

Here are some side effects you might get: bruising at the cupping spot, mild soreness or redness, brief dizziness or feeling lightheaded, blisters (rare), and strong pain during use (rare).

Who Should Avoid

Some health problems mean you should not use cupping therapy. If you have open wounds or a new injury, wait at least one to three days before trying cupping.

People with nerve or blood problems should not use this treatment. If you have bleeding injuries, fractures, or inflamed tissue, skip cupping.

Never use cupping on your eyes, sunburns, or burns. Pregnant people should not use cupping on their belly.

Always ask your doctor if you have health problems before you start cupping therapy.

Evidence Strength

You may wonder how much proof there is for cupping therapy and knee arthritis. Some studies say cupping helps with pain and movement.

For example, one study with 40 people found eight dry cupping sessions over four weeks helped pain and movement more than no treatment. Another study found cupping worked as well as medicine for pain and swelling in knee osteoarthritis.

• Some research says cupping helps pain and movement.
• Studies compare cupping to medicine and get similar results.
• Most studies are small and need more testing for strong proof.

Experts still argue about how well cupping works. Most studies are small and short. You might get relief for a short time, but long-term help is not clear. Always talk to your healthcare provider before you choose cupping therapy for your knees.

Recovery and Outlook

Aftercare

After cupping therapy, you might see marks or feel sore. You can help your body heal with easy steps.

• Drink lots of water. Water helps your body clean out toxins and heal.
• Do not use hot baths, saunas, or ice-cold packs. Very hot or cold things can bother your skin.
• Rest after your session. Your body needs time to get better, so do not do hard exercise or work too much.
• Take care of your skin. Do not scratch or rub the places where cups were. Let the marks go away on their own.
• Wear loose, soft clothes. Tight clothes can make the cupped spots hurt.

Being gentle with your skin helps it heal faster and keeps you feeling good after therapy.

Duration of Results

You might wonder how long cupping therapy helps your knees. The good feeling usually lasts a few days, sometimes up to a week.

Many people have less pain and move easier during this time. If you want to keep feeling better, you may need more sessions. The effects do not last forever, so planning more treatments can help you stay comfortable and move well.

Combining Treatments

Cupping therapy works best with other ways to care for your knees. You can use it with physical therapy, gentle exercise, or medicine.

Many people find that stretching and strength exercises help their knees bend and move. Some use ice packs or heat pads between sessions, but do not use these right after cupping.
Eating healthy food and keeping a good weight can also help your knees. These steps lower stress on your knees and help you feel better.

Here is a table that shows what treatments people use with cupping therapy:

Using more than one treatment can help you get the most from cupping therapy and keep your knees healthy for a long time.

Consulting a Healthcare Provider

When to Seek Advice

It is important to talk to a healthcare provider before you try cupping therapy for knee arthritis. Getting medical advice helps keep you safe and gives you better results.

You should ask for advice if you:

• Have other health issues like diabetes or blood problems
• Take blood thinners or other daily medicines
• See open wounds, skin infections, or swelling near your knee
• Feel unsure if cupping is right for you
• Have strong pain, blisters, or strange symptoms after a session

A doctor can help you know if cupping therapy is good for your health. They can check if you have risks that make cupping unsafe.

Questions to Ask

Before starting cupping therapy, ask your practitioner some important questions. These questions help you know what will happen and how to stay safe.

Here are some questions you can ask:

• What are the possible benefits of cupping therapy for knee arthritis?
• How many sessions do you think I need for my problem?
• What risks or side effects can happen with cupping therapy?
• How do you make sure the equipment is clean?
• Can you share references or stories from other patients?

Cupping therapy can raise the chance of infection and blood diseases like hepatitis B and C if tools are not cleaned well.

Always ask about how your practitioner cleans their equipment. Clean tools lower your risk and keep you safe during treatment.

Good practitioners answer your questions clearly. If you feel unsure or do not get clear answers, you should look for another provider.

Finding a Practitioner

You need to find a practitioner who is qualified for cupping therapy. Look for someone with training and experience in treating knee arthritis.

Many physical therapists, massage therapists, and chiropractors offer cupping therapy. You can check their certificates and ask about their work with knee pain.

You can ask friends, family, or your doctor for advice. Online reviews and patient stories can help you pick the right practitioner. Always trust your feelings. If you feel safe and comfortable, you will likely have a better experience.

Your health and safety are most important. Take your time to find a practitioner who fits your needs and answers your questions.

You learned what cupping therapy can do for knee arthritis. You saw what benefits and risks to expect. You should think about what works best for your knees.

• Talk to your healthcare provider before you start.
• Ask questions about safety and results.
• Choose a trained practitioner.

Making informed choices helps you care for your knees with confidence.

FAQ

What should you expect during your first cupping therapy session?

You will sit or lie down. The practitioner will clean your skin and place cups on your knee. You may feel gentle pulling or tingling. The session lasts about 15 minutes. You might see red marks or feel mild soreness afterward.

What are the most common side effects of cupping therapy?

You may notice bruising, redness, or mild soreness where the cups touched your skin. These effects usually fade in a few days. Rarely, you could feel dizzy or see small blisters. Most side effects do not last long.

What makes cupping therapy different from other treatments for knee arthritis?

Cupping therapy uses suction to boost blood flow and relax muscles. You do not take medicine or use needles. Many people say it helps with pain and stiffness. You may find it works well with exercise or physical therapy.

What should you do if you feel pain after cupping therapy?

You should rest and drink water. Mild pain or soreness is normal. If pain feels strong or lasts more than a few days, call your healthcare provider. Do not scratch or rub the area.

What type of practitioner should you look for when choosing cupping therapy?

You should choose someone with training in cupping therapy. Physical therapists, massage therapists, or chiropractors often offer this treatment. Ask about their experience with knee arthritis and check for certificates.

What can you do to help your skin heal after cupping therapy?

Wear loose clothes and avoid hot baths or cold packs. Drink water and let your skin rest. Do not scratch or rub the marks. Most skin changes go away in a few days.

What should you ask your practitioner before starting cupping therapy?

Ask about the benefits, risks, and how they clean their tools. You can also ask how many sessions you may need and if they have experience with knee arthritis. Good practitioners answer your questions clearly.

What signs mean you should avoid cupping therapy?

You should avoid cupping if you have open wounds, broken bones, severe skin inflammation, or blood problems. Pregnant people should not use cupping on their belly. Always ask your doctor if you have health concerns.