What's up with Chisato Fukushima's stomach?

Chisato Fukushima sports some odd spots on her stomach. Photo / Getty

Japanese sprinter Chisato Fukushima has taken to the track in Rio with odd sticking plasters dotted over her stomach, leaving spectators wondering what they're all about.

The 28-year-old athlete from Japan is said to be a big fan of accupuncture, and believes the plasters can improve the function of internal organs when placed over accupuncture points on the body.

Fukushima's spots were visible as she competed against Sheniqua Ferguson of the Bahamas in the women's 200m. Photo / Getty

Speaking to Japanese newspaper The Asahi Shimbun, the runner said the small patches of plaster feel good.

"It feels like I am soaking in a hot spring," she said. "I can feel the range of motion in the joints of my body expand."

The specially developed EK-6000 plaster contains a mixture of eight natutal minerals, and is placed on specific points on the body in accordance with traditional Japanese medicine. The exact composition of the minerals is said to be a secret among the Japanese trainers.

Fukushima is said to use the plasters to improve how her internal organs function. Photo / Getty

Despite looking painful, the plasters might just be doing something, as Fukushima is the Japanese record holder for the women's 100m and 200m, and recently ran the 200m in 23.21 seconds in Rio, ranking her 38 out of the 72 competitors.

-nzherald.co.nz