How Actors & Athletes Use Acupuncture and Cupping to Heal Faster and Perform Better

Travis Montique
Oct 14
3 min read

When you see elite athletes breaking records or actors performing intense action scenes on set, what you don’t see is the rigorous recovery routines that keep them at the top of their game. Increasingly, many celebrities and sports stars are turning to acupuncture and cupping therapy — ancient wellness practices — to speed up recovery, relieve pain, and optimize performance.

From Michael Phelps’ famous cupping marks at the Olympics to Jennifer Aniston’s acupuncture sessions before big events, these treatments have become mainstream among top performers. And now, you can experience these same benefits locally at Ocean Ki Wellness in Middletown & Warwick, RI.

Acupuncture & Cupping in Sports Recovery

Acupuncture involves the strategic insertion of fine needles to stimulate the body’s natural healing response, reduce inflammation, and improve circulation.Cupping uses suction to increase blood flow to sore or tight muscles, helping flush out toxins and speed up recovery.

These modalities are now commonly used in sports medicine programs, physical therapy, and wellness routines for elite athletes.

Michael Phelps – Cupping at the 2016 Olympics

During the Rio Olympics, legendary swimmer Michael Phelps made headlines for the large purple cupping marks on his shoulders and back. The images went viral.

“I’ve done cupping for years — it’s just another recovery tool.”— Michael Phelps, New York Times

Cupping became a global trend practically overnight after that moment, with athletes across multiple disciplines — gymnastics, track, basketball, and more — incorporating it into their recovery routines.

Hollywood Actors Embrace Acupuncture

✨ Jennifer Aniston – Pre-Event Glow

Jennifer Aniston has been open about using acupuncture for both wellness and beauty. She reportedly receives regular acupuncture treatments to relieve tension, boost energy, and enhance her skin’s natural radiance before major events.

“I love acupuncture. It’s great for everything — mood, skin, energy, you name it.”— Jennifer Aniston, People Magazine

Gwyneth Paltrow – Champion of Traditional Chinese Medicine

Gwyneth Paltrow helped popularize cupping in Hollywood long before the Olympic trend. She appeared at a 2004 film premiere with visible cupping marks on her back, sparking widespread media curiosity.

“It’s been part of my wellness routine for years. I really believe in it.”— Gwyneth Paltrow, BBC

Acupuncture & Cupping in Pro Sports

🏈 NFL & NBA Players

Many professional athletes — from NFL players to NBA stars — integrate acupuncture and cupping as part of their injury prevention and recovery protocols.

Kobe Bryant was known to use acupuncture for ankle and knee injuries.
DeMarcus Ware of the Dallas Cowboys famously underwent acupuncture to recover from neck and back injuries.

“I had needles sticking out of my neck and back, and it worked. The next day, I felt brand new.”— DeMarcus Ware, ESPN

LeBron James reportedly includes acupuncture, cryotherapy, and stretching in his wellness regimen to keep him playing at an elite level into his late 30s.

Heal Like the Pros at Ocean Ki Wellness

At Ocean Ki Wellness, we offer professional acupuncture and cupping therapy for pain relief, sports recovery, and overall well-being. Our practitioners combine traditional techniques with modern wellness standards to help you heal faster and feel your best.

Why Athletes & Actors Love These Treatments

Speeds up recovery after training or injury
Reduces muscle tightness and inflammation
Improves blood circulation and energy flow
Promotes relaxation and mental clarity

Whether you’re recovering from a workout, managing chronic pain, or preparing for a big event, our acupuncture and cupping treatments bring world-class wellness to Middletown & Warwick, Rhode Island.

Book Your Session Today📍

Ocean Ki Wellness – Middletown & Warwick, RI