Dry Cupping for Recovery From Muscle Damage

Launched by UNIVERSITY OF SASKATCHEWAN · Mar 21, 2025

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is investigating the effects of dry cupping on muscle recovery after intense exercise that can cause muscle damage. Dry cupping is a treatment where cups are placed on the skin to create suction, which is believed to help with recovery by improving blood flow and reducing soreness. In this study, researchers will compare the real dry cupping treatment to a placebo treatment (which doesn’t have any active effect) to see how well each helps with muscle strength, swelling, and soreness after exercise.

To join the trial, participants need to be between 18 and 35 years old, and they should have some experience with upper arm strength training for at least three months. However, those with certain health conditions or skin issues in the treatment area won’t be eligible. If you participate, you can expect to receive either the dry cupping treatment or the placebo after a workout, and the team will monitor your recovery over time. This study is currently recruiting participants, so there’s an opportunity to contribute to our understanding of muscle recovery methods!

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Male or female
• • 18-35 years old
• • Experienced with upper arm resistance training for at least 3 months
• 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