The Effect of Wet Cupping Therapy on Physical Mobility Impairment in a Stroke Patient: A Case Study

Abstract

Background: Stroke is a leading cause of long-term disability and often results in nursing problems such as impaired physical mobility. Limitations in mobility significantly affect patients’ independence and quality of life. In addition to conventional rehabilitation, complementary therapies are increasingly considered to support recovery. One such therapy is wet cupping therapy, which is believed to improve blood circulation, reduce muscle stiffness, and enhance neuromuscular function.

Methods: A descriptive single-case design was used, This case study describes nursing care provided to a single post-stroke patient with impaired physical mobility who received wet cupping therapy as a complementary nursing intervention.

Case Presentation: This case study describes nursing care provided to Mr. S, a stroke patient with impaired physical mobility, who received wet cupping therapy as a complementary nursing intervention at Holistic Care Health Center, Kalibaru Banyuwangi, in 2025. Nursing care was conducted using the nursing process approach, including assessment, nursing diagnosis, intervention, implementation, and evaluation. Data were collected through nursing interviews, physical examinations, and direct observation. Following wet cupping therapy, the patient demonstrated clinically meaningful improvements in physical mobility, including reduced limb stiffness, increased muscle strength, and improved functional movement, without adverse effects.

Conclusion: This case showed improvement in physical mobility following wet cupping therapy, characterized by reduced limb stiffness, increased muscle strength, and improved movement ability. Wet cupping therapy may be considered a complementary intervention in nursing care for stroke patients with impaired physical mobility to support functional recovery and enhance quality of life. However, as this report is based on a single patient, the findings have limited generalizability and should be interpreted as preliminary evidence.