Why cupping should not be used for lower back pain
Oct 30, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
Lumbar disc herniation is caused by the protrusion of the nucleus pulposus, which compresses the nerve roots and may lead to lower back pain, often accompanied by radiating pain in the lower limbs. In such cases, cupping therapy may not be appropriate, as it could exacerbate the compression of the nerve roots by the herniated nucleus pulposus, thereby worsening symptoms. It is recommended to treat under medical guidance using medications such as mecobalamin tablets, Gentongping granules, and Tongluo Qutong plaster.
Generally, lower back pain may be caused by poor posture, overexertion, lumbar muscle strain, acute lumbar sprain, lumbar disc herniation, and other reasons. Below are the reasons why cupping therapy is not recommended for lower back pain. If discomfort occurs, it is advisable to seek medical attention promptly. Specific analyses are as follows:
1. Poor Posture
Long-term maintenance of improper sitting or standing postures, such as slouching or hunching, can easily increase the burden on the lumbar spine, leading to lower back pain. Cupping may further加重 the load on the lumbar spine; therefore, cupping is not recommended. Symptoms can be relieved by correcting poor posture and strengthening exercises for the lumbar muscles.
2. Overexertion
Prolonged standing, sitting, or excessive physical labor can keep the lumbar muscles and ligaments in a state of continuous tension, thus causing lower back pain. At this time, cupping may exacerbate the pain and is therefore not recommended. Rest, heat application, and gentle stretching exercises can help relieve lower back pain.
3. Lumbar Muscle Strain
Lumbar muscle strain is usually caused by injury to soft tissues such as lumbar muscles, fascia, and ligaments. Microscopic damage to muscle fibers triggers an inflammatory response, resulting in lower back pain. This may be accompanied by symptoms such as muscle tightness, tenderness, and restricted movement. Cupping at this stage may worsen inflammation and is therefore not advised. Treatment may include medications such as celecoxib capsules, compound chlorzoxazone tablets, or Wujin Huoxue Zhi Tong capsules, as directed by a physician.
4. Acute Lumbar Sprain
An acute lumbar sprain is an acute tearing injury caused by sudden overstretching of the lower back. It results in tearing of lumbar soft tissues, stimulating nerve endings and causing pain. Swelling may also occur. At this stage, cupping is not the preferred treatment, as it may intensify local inflammatory responses and swelling. Patients are advised to take medications such as acetaminophen tablets, ibuprofen sustained-release capsules, or indomethacin tablets under medical guidance.
5. Lumbar Disc Herniation
Lumbar disc herniation occurs when the nucleus pulposus protrudes and compresses spinal nerve roots, potentially causing lower back pain along with radiating pain in the lower limbs. Cupping is generally not suitable in such cases, as it may increase pressure on the nerve roots and worsen symptoms. Treatment may include medications such as mecobalamin tablets, Gentongping granules, or Tongluo Qutong ointment, as prescribed by a doctor.
If individuals with chronic lower back pain wish to try cupping, it should be done only under the guidance of a healthcare professional to avoid aggravating the condition.
