Which of the following is a contraindication for cupping therapy?

Open wounds are a contraindication for cupping therapy because the process involves creating suction on the skin, which may exacerbate any existing injury or infection. Applying cupping therapy over an open wound can introduce bacteria into the wound site, leading to potential complications such as infections or delayed healing. It is essential for practitioners to assess the skin before performing cupping to ensure the area is intact and healthy.

Mild bruising, muscle soreness, and seasonal allergies, while they may be considerations for treatment, do not inherently preclude the use of cupping therapy. Mild bruising can often be treated effectively with cupping, and muscle soreness is one of the common indications for the therapy. Seasonal allergies do not typically present a direct risk during cupping application. Thus, the presence of open wounds makes it critical to avoid employing cupping therapy in those cases.