What is Gua Sha?

Gua Sha is a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) technique which involves scraping, ‘Gua’, of the skin to intentionally produce transitory therapeutic petechiae, ‘Sha’, on the skin. Sha, or the redness that appears on the skin as a result of scraping, comes from congested blood cells in surface tissue that are extravasated, or pressed, through the capillary walls to the surface of the skin. This is not a bruise, because the capillaries are not damaged or broken. The sha looks a bit like a rash under the skin, or a rug burn; however, the process can actually feel quite therapeutic and nice. 

Why does Gua Sha work?

This procedure initiates a healing response from the body, causing a dramatic increase in blood circulation to the area being worked on. This local increase in circulation results in anti-inflammatory, immune-stimulating, and pain-relieving benefits. 

How is Gua Sha performed?

To perform Gua Sha, I will first use an oil or liniment to prime/lubricate the skin, and then take a smooth edged scraping tool to intentionally and repeatedly press-stroke the affected area. The strokes are done unidirectionally, with firm and even pressure, on areas where you may be experiencing stiffness, tightness, or pain.

What can Gua Sha treat?

​Research has shown that Gua Sha increases microcirculation to surface tissues, reduces inflammation, and stimulates the immune system.  For these reasons it can be useful for any disorder involving pain or inflammation, and is commonly used to fight off a common cold. For the science-minded, click here to read more about how Gua Sha works, and what conditions have shown to be responsive to this treatment. 

What does the ‘sha’ say about my condition?

The color of the sha can tell us a lot about what is happening under the skin in that area. Like cupping marks, the color of petechiae can range from bright red to dark purple. Generally speaking, the darker the color, the more serious or chronic the condition/blockage. It shows that there are old dead blood cells that have been stuck here for some time, and most likely a build up of cellular debris and toxins along with them. How quickly the petechiae fade is also telling. In people with healthy circulatory systems (young people and athletes), petechiae fade very quickly (1-2 days). It can take longer in an individual who is sick or sedentary, in chronic conditions, or in older individuals with less active micro-circulation.

What can I expect after a Gua Sha treatment?

As mentioned above, the petechiae should fade within 1-5 days in an individual with adequate blood flow to the area treated. If it takes longer it shows that there is less active micro-circulation in that area. The skin in this area may be a bit tender, like a sunburn, following treatment. However, the overall result is immediate relief from stiffness and pain, and increased range of motion. For this to happen it is important to follow some simple self care steps after treatment. You can facilitate faster healing by staying hydrated, rested, and engaging in gentle stretching and movement. It is important to keep the marks covered right after treatment and not expose them to any severe weather such as wind and cold for at least 3 days. Avoid hot tubs, swimming pools, and drafty environments. This is because gua sha opens the surface area of the body, which can then allow pathogens to enter if not well protected. Pathogenic factors can cause spasm, tightness, and stagnation to return. Vigorous activity after treatment can also cause overtaxation and re-injury, so be sure to take it easy.