Perceived and Actual Knowledge of Cupping Therapy Concepts among Athletic Training Preceptors in CAATE Accredited Programs

Abstract

Cupping therapy is a therapeutic modality that has been documented as early as 3300BC [1]. By using various means of suction, cupping therapy is employed by clinicians around the world for the purpose of improving blood flow, decreasing pain, increasing range of motion, and increasing function [2-4]. In the 21st century, cupping therapy has grown in popularity in the United States and other countries where Western Medicine is practiced [1]. A large amount of this popularity is likely due to increased media interest resulting from elite level athletes receiving cupping therapy [5,6]. Although cupping therapy has increased in popularity as a treatment option in the United States, there is still no consensus on the ideal parameters for prescribing and applying cupping therapy to either amateur or professional athletes [1]. This lack of consensus can be attributed in part to a lack of high quality studies and a lack of standardized methodology [4,7]. Another potential factor may be skepticism of Eastern Medicine practices in countries that practice primarily Western Medicine [7].