Cupping Therapy Practice Exam 2026 - Free Cupping Therapy Practice Questions and Study Guide

Cupping therapy primarily causes local congestion, which is its fundamental therapeutic effect. By creating suction on the skin, cupping increases blood flow to the area under the cup. This localized increase in circulation brings fresh oxygen and nutrients while facilitating the removal of metabolic waste. The suction effect encourages blood vessels to expand, resulting in a pool of blood in the targeted tissues, which is referred to as local congestion.

This process is believed to aid in pain relief, promote healing, and reduce inflammation in the area being treated. Additionally, it can help alleviate muscle tension and improve tissue elasticity, leading to a more profound relaxation of the muscles and fascia. Local congestion also activates the body's natural healing processes, making it an essential aspect of the therapy.

While other options like improving flexibility or enhancing muscle strength may be secondary benefits of reduced tension and increased mobility from cupping, they do not represent the primary effect of the technique itself. Thus, causing local congestion stands out as the most significant and direct outcome of cupping therapy.