Cupping vs UVB: Comparable Psoriasis Outcomes? - Scorecard - MDSpire
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Cupping vs UVB: Comparable Psoriasis Outcomes?

Randomized study found no statistically significant differences in disease improvement between treatments over 8 weeks.

  • By

  • Meg Barbor

  • April 9, 2026

  • 2 min

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Clinical Scorecard: Cupping vs UVB: Comparable Psoriasis Outcomes?

At a Glance

CategoryDetail
ConditionPlaque Psoriasis
Key MechanismsSliding cupping may influence inflammatory pathways.
Target PopulationPatients with plaque psoriasis, predominantly Chinese.
Care SettingSingle center, randomized controlled trial.

Key Highlights

  • Cupping and NBUVB showed similar short-term improvements in PASI scores.
  • Mean PASI score reduction: 62% (cupping) vs 67% (NBUVB) by week 8.
  • 69% (cupping) and 79% (NBUVB) achieved at least a 30% improvement in PASI scores.
  • Adverse events were mild and infrequent; no serious adverse events reported.
  • Study limitations include small size, short follow-up, and lack of blinding.

Guideline-Based Recommendations

Diagnosis

  • Assess plaque psoriasis severity using PASI scores.

Management

  • Consider sliding cupping or NBUVB for short-term treatment.

Monitoring & Follow-up

  • Evaluate PASI scores and quality of life indicators at regular intervals.

Risks

  • Be aware of potential operator-dependent variability in cupping therapy.

Patient & Prescribing Data

Patients with mild to moderate plaque psoriasis.

Sliding cupping may be an alternative to NBUVB with comparable outcomes.

Clinical Best Practices

  • Conduct larger, longer-term studies to validate findings.
  • Interpret results cautiously due to study limitations.

Related Resources & Content

Original Source(s)

Cupping vs UVB: Comparable Psoriasis Outcomes?

  • by Meg Barbor

  • April 9, 2026

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