Using multi-channel near-infrared spectroscopy to assess the effect of cupping therapy on the spatial hemodynamic response of the biceps muscle: A preliminary study.

This study investigated the spatial hemodynamic response of the biceps muscle to cupping therapy under varying pressures (-225 and -300 mmHg) and durations (5 and 10 minutes) using multi-channel functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS). Results from 18 healthy adults showed a significant interaction among location (inside vs. outside the cup), pressure, and duration on oxyhemoglobin, deoxy-hemoglobin, and blood volume, with notable increases in oxyhemoglobin, blood volume, and oxygenation observed not only inside but also immediately outside the cupping area. The findings suggest that both cupping pressure and duration influence muscle oxygenation spatially, indicating that effective cupping therapy should consider these factors to benefit muscle tissue both within and surrounding the cup application site. This research contributes to establishing a dose-response relationship for cupping therapy parameters to enhance its clinical effectiveness in managing musculoskeletal conditions.