Information courtesy of webmd.com
Gua sha is a traditional Chinese healing method in which a trained professional uses a smooth-edged tool to stroke your skin while they press on it. This movement causes small, red, rash-like dots that appear under your skin, called petechiae.
People use gua sha to treat chronic pain all over their body. They often do it in addition to other complementary treatments such as herbal medicine, massage, acupuncture and heat therapy.
What is happening
To prepare you for the treatment, your technician will apply oil to your body. They then use the stone-like gua sha massager to scrape your skin in long, downward strokes. This is when you will notice areas of petechiae on your skin.
Initially, they will gently use the tool on your skin. Gradually add more pressure to the strokes. They only apply as much pressure as you are comfortable with.
This process is believed to increase blood flow and create a ‘lifting’ effect on your skin, which some say can help reduce toxins in your body and promote healing.
You can also have gua sha done on your face, but that process would be gentler.
Potential benefits
A number of studies have looked at whether it may be useful for certain conditions, including:
Hepatitis B. One study shows that it may help reduce the amount of liver inflammation caused by the hepatitis B virus. But we need more studies to know for sure.
Migraine. One study found that gua sha, as part of a 14-day inpatient treatment, seemed to help relieve migraine pain. But experts need more research and clinical trials to prove this.
Tourette syndrome. This condition affects your nervous system and causes ‘tics’ or sudden muscle twitches. In one study, a man with Tourette’s syndrome used a combination of acupuncture, herbs, lifestyle changes and gua sha once a week for 35 weeks. He saw his symptoms improve by 70%. But researchers need more evidence to confirm the links.
Neck pain. In one clinical trial, 48 people with chronic neck pain were divided into two equal groups. After a week, the people who received a gua sha treatment saw their pain decrease significantly for a short time. Experts are not yet sure what the long-term effects of gua sha on neck pain are.
Potential risks
Normally, gua sha is considered safe. However, you may notice some bruising or discoloration of your skin. You may also be sore and tender for a short time after having the treatment.
You should not receive it if you are taking medications for blood clots.
If you’re considering trying gua sha, talk to your doctor first to make sure it’s right for you.