The Effects of Cupping Therapy and Stretching on Lumbar Spine Range of Motion Using Bubble Inclinometry

Low back pain is a leading cause of disability. Cupping can be effective for improving motion in those with back pain; however, little is known about its efficacy compared with other interventions. This study evaluated differences among cupping, stretching, and cupping with stretching on lumbar flexion, extension, and lateral flexion. Although the interventions increased lumbar spine motion, there was no significant difference between groups. Cupping with stretching appears to result in greater motion changes; however, the overall increases were small. Cupping does not appear to increase lumbar spine motion more than stretching or cupping combined with stretching. While cupping may improve low back pain through other means, it does not appear to significantly impact lumbar spine motion in asymptomatic individuals.