What is Gua Sha?

Gua Sha (also known as “scraping therapy”) is an ancient technique in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) that involves using a smooth-edged tool—typically made of jade, horn, porcelain, or metal—to repeatedly stroke lubricated skin in one direction, usually along muscles or meridian pathways.

How does Gua Sha Work?

TCM perspective

Balancing Qi and Blood
  • Guasha releases blocked Qi (vital energy) and blood, which are sources of pain, tension, and illness if they become stagnant.

Meridians and Acupoints

  • The scraping encourages the smooth flow of Qi and blood through the meridians, dispels internal “pathogenic factors” like wind, cold, or heat, and helps the body recover.

Clearing Stagnation

  • The appearance of red or purple marks (痧 “sha”) is thought to indicate areas of stagnation that have been brought to the surface for elimination.

Modern Scientific Perspective

Increase blood circulation
  • Guasha increases microcirculation and blood flow in the treated area, which may help reduce inflammation, relieve pain, and promote tissue healing.
Relieves tension
  • The technique can loosen fascial adhesions, stimulate the immune system, and induce an anti-inflammatory effect.
Healing response
  • The reddish or purple marks are the result of tiny capillaries breaking, which triggers the body’s natural healing processes.

Benefits and Common Uses

  • Relieves muscle pain, tension, and stiffness (especially neck, shoulder, and back)
  • Reduces inflammation and swelling
  • Increases mobility and flexibility in joints and muscles
  • Commonly used for chronic pain, headaches, upper respiratory issues, and as a general wellness therapy

What to Expect in the session?

  • Lubricating oil is applied to the targeted area of skin.
  • The skin is scraped with gentle but firm strokes until redness or mild bruising (sha) develops; this typically fades within a few days
  • Most patients experience pain relief and relaxation after treatment.

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