Former Bond girl Denise Richards has explained the bruise marks that have started appearing on her back - she has become the latest celebrity to turn to cupping to cure a bad back.

The actress prompted concern at a press function recently when it appeared her back was covered in welts and bruises - but she insists the marks were left from a cupping session.

The alternative relief therapy, which is also used by Gwyneth Paltrow and Britney Spears, features heated glass pots which are placed on the skin to draw out toxins.

And Richards swears by the process: "I find that I feel better when I do it. It doesn't hurt that much, but it looks like someone took a baseball bat to me."

-Denise Richards Pictures
Gwyneth Paltrow Pictures
Britney Spears Pictures

(This news article provided by World Entertainment News Network)