Exploring the Benefits of Cupping Therapy (Hijama): What Does the Evidence Say?
Cupping therapy, whether dry or wet (Hijama), has been practiced across cultures for centuries. In recent years, it has gained attention in complementary medicine research. Evidence suggests potential benefits in pain management and musculoskeletal health.
A 2019 systematic review published in the Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine reported that cupping could help reduce chronic pain, particularly in conditions such as low back pain, neck pain, and osteoarthritis (Cao et al., 2019). A 2023 evidence-mapping review in Frontiers in Neurology also found moderate-quality evidence that cupping alleviates chronic pain and improves quality of life measures (Kim et al., 2023).
Mechanistically, studies suggest cupping may enhance local blood flow, stimulate the body’s natural opioids, and reduce inflammation (Chi et al., 2016). According to StatPearls (2023), both dry and wet cupping may play a supportive role in reducing muscle soreness and inflammatory-related pain.
The U.S. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) advises that while promising, the evidence remains limited and larger, high-quality trials are needed to confirm effectiveness. Patients should always consult a qualified healthcare provider before beginning new therapies.
For those interested in exploring this traditional therapy locally, Reha Health Center in Ottawa offers cupping and Hijama services. The clinic has earned positive reviews from clients seeking pain relief and relaxation.
References
Cao, H., Li, X., & Liu, J. (2019). An updated review of the efficacy of cupping therapy. Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine, 9(2), 90–98.
Kim, S. Y., Lee, J. H., Lee, M. S., et al. (2023). Evidence mapping of cupping therapy for chronic pain: A systematic review. Frontiers in Neurology, 14, 1266712.
Chi, L. M., Lin, L. M., Chen, C. L., et al. (2016). The effectiveness of cupping therapy on relieving chronic neck and shoulder pain: A randomized controlled trial. Complementary Therapies in Medicine, 24, 26–31.
StatPearls. (2023). Cupping Therapy. National Center for Biotechnology Information.
National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH). (2022). Cupping: What You Need to Know.
Acupuncture: Who Benefits, What It Does, and Why It Works
Acupuncture, a cornerstone of traditional Chinese medicine, involves inserting fine needles into specific points on the body to stimulate natural healing processes. Research suggests that it promotes endorphin release, modulates the nervous system, improves local blood flow, and reduces inflammation, contributing to both physical and psychological benefits (Zhou et al., 2022; Vickers et al., 2018).
A large meta-analysis published in JAMA Network Open concluded that acupuncture provides clinically relevant pain relief for conditions such as chronic low back pain, osteoarthritis, migraine, and tension-type headaches (Allen et al., 2022). The BMJ has also highlighted that evidence on acupuncture remains underutilized in mainstream healthcare despite consistent findings of its efficacy in pain and stress management (Lu, 2022).
Acupuncture is particularly valuable for people in certain professions. Office workers and programmers benefit from relief of neck and shoulder tension caused by prolonged sitting. Construction workers and manual laborers often experience musculoskeletal strain that responds well to acupuncture. Healthcare providers, teachers, and first responders—who face high stress and irregular schedules—may find improved sleep, reduced anxiety, and greater resilience through treatment.
The benefits of acupuncture include decreased musculoskeletal pain, enhanced mobility, stress reduction, improved sleep quality, and overall better well-being. For many, it serves as a safe and effective complementary therapy that can support both physical health and mental balance.
References
Allen, J., et al. (2022). Use of acupuncture for adult health conditions: A systematic review and meta-analysis. JAMA Network Open, 5(12), e2248574.
Lu, L. (2022). Evidence on acupuncture therapies is underused in clinical practice. BMJ, 376, e067949.
Vickers, A. J., et al. (2018). Acupuncture for chronic pain: Update of an individual patient data meta-analysis. Journal of Pain, 19(5), 455–474.
Zhou, M., et al. (2022). Acupuncture in the treatment of essential hypertension: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Complementary Therapies in Medicine, 64, 102792.
Massage Therapy for Athletes Under 38: Enhancing Recovery and Performance
Massage therapy is widely recognized in sports medicine as a valuable tool for recovery, injury prevention, and performance optimization. It involves targeted manipulation of soft tissues to improve circulation, reduce muscle tension, and support overall resilience. For athletes and professionals under 38, including university and college competitors as well as young working adults engaged in demanding sports or careers, massage therapy can be an important element of maintaining long-term health.
A systematic review in the British Journal of Sports Medicine found that massage can reduce delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) and improve perceptions of recovery in athletes (Poppendieck et al., 2016). A more recent meta-analysis in Frontiers in Physiology concluded that massage enhances flexibility, reduces muscle stiffness, and may modestly improve sprint and strength performance (Davis et al., 2020). These effects are especially relevant for individuals balancing physical training with academic or professional responsibilities.
Beyond physical recovery, massage therapy provides psychological benefits. Studies report reductions in stress, anxiety, and perceived fatigue following treatment, supporting better performance in both athletic and workplace settings (Weerapong et al., 2005). Improved sleep quality, another documented outcome, is crucial for recovery and injury prevention, particularly for adults under 38 who are often managing busy, high-demand lifestyles.
For those interested in trying this therapy locally, Reha Health Services in Ottawa offers professional massage therapy with excellent client reviews.
References
Davis, H. L., Alabed, S., & Chico, T. J. (2020). Effect of sports massage on performance and recovery: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Frontiers in Physiology, 11, 146.
Poppendieck, W., Wegmann, M., Ferrauti, A., Kellmann, M., Pfeiffer, M., & Meyer, T. (2016). Massage and performance recovery: A meta-analytical review. British Journal of Sports Medicine, 50(14), 889–896.
Weerapong, P., Hume, P. A., & Kolt, G. S. (2005). The mechanisms of massage and effects on performance, muscle recovery, and injury prevention. Sports Medicine, 35(3), 235–256.