Natural Pain relief through Acupuncture
Gua Sha
What is Gua Sha?
Gua Sha is a traditional and natural ancient Oriental healing technique commonly practiced in clinical settings and homes across Asia and Eastern European families. Gua Sha translated as “gua,” means scraping, while “sha” refers to the appearance of bruising or erythema (redness). Gua sha involves using tools like buffalo horn, a gemstone, or a little wooden spoon with some lotion to lubricate the body’s surface area and press or scrap the skin in one direction continuously until the temporary red mark develops. The red mark is called “sha” because it does not result in capillary rupture, unlike bruising. Creating the red mark when blood and qi stagnate and cannot circulate correctly, resulting in pain and illness. The discoloration will usually disappear in a few days. Raising sha is tough when the tissue is healthy.
What does Gua Sha Do?
Gua Sha increases qi and blood circulation and promotes metabolic processes, range of motion, and immune function. The patient experiences immediate relief from aches all over the body, limb pain, muscle tension, headache, and many other disorders.
What Should I Expect after a Gua Sha Treatment?
Similar to cupping, Gua Sha will leave red marks typically lasts for a few days. Patients should not exercise, shower, or swim for the remainder of the day. If the upper back is treated, wearing a thin T-shirt after treatment is advisable to cover the exposed skin.
