What is Traditional Gua Sha?
Gua Sha (pronunced gwah shaw or gwah saw), is a manual technique of Traditional Chinese Medicine, similar to cupping, but using a dull-edged tool to scrape the skin.
Gua is the unidirectional “press-stroke” motion, similar to scraping (however nothing is removed or injured like a scrape).
Sha is the red dots or marks produced from the stroking method. In medical terminology, the red marks are called “petechiae” (puh-tee-kee-eye). Sha is NOT a rash, burn, dermabrasion (scrape), or bruising, and it should not cause damage or trauma to the skin.
This therapy can help loosen muscles or fascial adhesions, relieve muscle tension, and improve circulation to tissues. It has also been shown to boost immune function.
We offer neck and upper back treatments that are most effective for neck, shoulder and back tension, headaches, migraines, and immune support. During pregnancy, you can still get gua sha therapy, however, the acupuncturist will avoid certain areas such as the tops of the shoulders.
How does Gua Sha work?
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, there is a saying that goes: “No free flow: pain; free flow: no pain”.
In other words, blockages (of Qi and Blood) in the body lead to pain or illness. Where acupuncture is good for moving Qi when stuck, Gua Sha is good for moving Blood.
Sha comes up naturally during some illnesses, as the body fights them. Therefore, using Gua Sha to induce this natural healing mechanism may help the body overcome pain and disease in a similar way.
What does Gua Sha do?
Stretches connective tissue,
Causes mechanical and chemical signalling in the connective tissue matrix, activating the body’s natural healing response,
Increases surface microcirculation,
Increases surface microperfusion (mimics sweating), to release heat during a fever or heatstroke, speeding up the body’s sick response (for example, during a cold),
If already sick, the patient may get sicker quickly, then recover rather quickly. If the illness is in the earlier stages, it may be relieved without the full illness coming on at all.
Resolves Blood stasis (moves Blood that is stuck in the tissue),
Stimulates the immune system,
Stimulates the anti-inflammatory effect and pain reduction over time.
“When substances become stuck, function is slowed and there is often pain. Gua Sha moves what is stuck and resolves pain”.
What should I expect during a Gua Sha treatment?
We will treat the neck, shoulders and upper back. Wear a tank top or sports bra, or other clothing that allows easy access to the upper back and shoulders. Bring a scarf to protect your neck from the elements (cold weather, wind, water or sun) when you leave.
After a Gua Sha treatment, it is important to care for the body as it heals. Avoid shower, bath or pools for 12-24 hours, avoid alcohol immediately after, and drink lots of water. Wait until marks have faded before doing another treatment.