This comment came up today while treating a patient. She previously had sliding cupping performed for a tight rhomboid muscle. Two days later she had physical therapy. Physical therapist was alarmed to see such marks on her back and inquired on the cause. She informed P.T. she had cupping. His first response was "You know George Washington died of cupping right?"
Ok, where did this come from and is there any truth behind it?
The cliffnote version: George Washing had pneumonia and a soar throat. Four physicians over a short period of time removed close to 4 liters of blood with the help of cupping over the incision.
Historically accurate version from mountvernon.org is below
