Dry Cupping for Recovery From Muscle Damage

Last updated: April 17, 2025
Sponsor: University of Saskatchewan
Overall Status: Active - Recruiting

Phase

N/A

Condition

N/A

Treatment

Dry cupping with suction

Dry cupping without suction

Clinical Study ID

NCT06900556
2024_25_04
  • Ages 18-35
  • All Genders
  • Accepts Healthy Volunteers

Study Summary

This study compares the effect of dry cupping to placebo cupping after muscle-damaging exercise on recovery of muscle strength, muscle swelling, and muscle soreness.

Eligibility Criteria

Inclusion

Inclusion Criteria:

  • Male or female

  • 18-35 years old

  • Experienced with upper arm resistance training for at least 3 months

Exclusion

Exclusion Criteria:

  • Conditions that might make exercise dangerous (determined by "yes" answers to the "Get Active Questionnaire")

  • Open wounds, scars, eczema, or other skin sensitivities on the biceps area

Study Design

Total Participants: 10
Treatment Group(s): 2
Primary Treatment: Dry cupping with suction
Phase:
Study Start date:
March 24, 2025
Estimated Completion Date:
May 30, 2025

Study Description

Dry cupping is a technique where cups are placed on the skin and a suction device is used to remove air from the cups. This study aims to investigate whether dry cupping therapy can enhance muscle recovery following exercise by measuring muscle soreness, swelling, and strength in the biceps. Six sets of biceps curls (emphasizing concentric and eccentric overload) will be performed on each arm, followed by dry cupping with suction applied to one arm (experimental) and dry cupping without suction (placebo) applied to the opposite arm. Experimental and placebo arms for each participant will be randomized. Before exercise and immediately, 24 hours, 48 hours, and 72 hours after exercise, muscle strength, muscle swelling (ultrasound), and muscle soreness (visual analog scale) will be assessed.

Connect with a study center

  • College of Kinesiology, University of Saskatchewan

    Saskatoon, Saskatchewan S7N5B2
    Canada

    Active - Recruiting

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