Cupping in Sport — Acupuncture and Cupping for Everyday Pain
The circular marks on Michael Phelps’s shoulders and back became a talking point during the Rio 2016 Olympics. They were caused by cupping, a traditional therapy used by Phelps and other American athletes as part of their recovery routines.
Read The New York Times’ 2016 report about Michael Phelps and cupping.
At Chinese Acupuncture Clinic Mullingar, caring for people with shoulder and upper-back pain, lower-back pain, sciatica and knee pain is a central part of our everyday work. Our clinic also uses this traditional cupping method, alongside acupuncture where appropriate, with care tailored to your symptoms, health history and goals.
Acupuncture uses fine needles, while cupping creates suction on the skin and can leave temporary circular marks. Research suggests acupuncture may help with certain pain conditions, including back and neck pain and knee pain associated with osteoarthritis. Cupping may also help reduce pain.
Our aim is to help ease discomfort and support more comfortable movement. We will discuss possible benefits, limitations and suitability with you, and review your response to treatment.
Interested in acupuncture or cupping for pain? Contact our acupuncture clinic to arrange a consultation.
Phone: 087 357 2786 | Request an Appointment
Image: AI-generated illustration of an anonymous athlete receiving cupping; not Michael Phelps.
Acupuncture care for pain and wellbeing
Personalised care, with realistic expectations.
Acupuncture for Shoulder Pain
We offer individual consultations for shoulder pain and stiffness. We will discuss your symptoms and whether acupuncture or cupping may be suitable. Treatment aims to support comfort and everyday movement.
Acupuncture for Lower Back Pain
We offer acupuncture consultations for lower back pain, with care tailored to your symptoms and daily activities. We will discuss possible benefits and limitations and review your response over time. Improvement is not guaranteed.
Acupuncture for Sciatica
If you are experiencing sciatica, we can discuss whether acupuncture may be appropriate alongside your existing care. Our approach focuses on your individual needs and comfort. Ongoing or worsening symptoms should be assessed by your GP.
Acupuncture for Migraine
We offer individual acupuncture consultations for people living with migraine. We will discuss your symptoms, treatment goals and whether acupuncture may be suitable alongside your usual care. A headache-free outcome cannot be promised.
Acupuncture for Tinnitus
If you are living with tinnitus, we can discuss your wellbeing goals and the limitations of acupuncture. We do not promise relief or improved hearing. Please seek advice from your GP or a hearing specialist about assessment and treatment options.
Acupuncture for Weight Management
Acupuncture can be discussed as part of a broader wellbeing plan. We do not promise weight loss or changes to appetite, hormones or metabolism. Sustainable weight management requires an individual approach to nutrition, activity and medical advice where appropriate.
Acupuncture for Depression
We offer a calm setting to discuss your wellbeing and whether acupuncture may be suitable as complementary care. Acupuncture does not replace assessment or treatment for depression. Please continue care with your GP or mental health professional.
