Shape memory alloys (SMAs) find use in myriad medical and engineering applications. In these applications, the functional characteristics of the materials are capitalized on. SMAs are used repeatedly over a long period of time in service. With continued usage degradation occurs in their functional properties, leading to a change in recovery strain, recovery stress, phase transformation temperatures and hysteresis. The change in the functional characteristics of the alloys is known as functional fatigue. Functional fatigue affects the performance of the alloys with the alloys losing their intended functionality. This problem is to be addressed if the alloys are to be used effectively and efficiently throughout their lifespan. It is especially important when using the alloys within the human body, where such degradation can affect the performance of the biomedical devices and, in turn, human health and life. Till date not too many researchers have explored this area in greater detail. In order thereforeto better understand this behavior, in the present study, an Ni50Ti44.7Cu5.3 alloy wire with a d= 1.43 mm and a l=100 mm was cycled (10,000) under constant stress (55 MPa) between its transformation temperatures, which were determined by DSC (without load). The effect of cycling on the shape memory properties (strain recovery, hysteresis, and transformation temperatures) after a specified number of cycles at regular intervals are considered. The results show that there is considerable difference in the properties obtained and are interpreted and discussed in detail in the paper. © 2021 Trans Tech Publications Ltd, Switzerland.