Have you ever wondered, What is Gua Sha?
Although it has different names in different cultures, gua-sha is a Chinese term loosely meaning “scraping sand bruises.” Gua-sha is a scraping technique used by acupuncturists to remove stagnated and pathogenic blood from the body by bringing it to the surface of the skin. The process also stimulates healthy blood and allows healing to begin. Using a small tool and rhythmic strokes along lubricated skin, the acupuncturist generates redness and sometimes mild blemishing in the subcutis. Some acupuncturists use a spoon-like tool, some an animal hoof or horn, and others use a flat plastic tool.
Gua Sha in Chinese Medicine
Chinese and Vietnamese acupuncturists believe that gua-sha removes wind from the body. In Chinese medicine, wind is a major cause of illness and disharmony. There are syndromes known as wind cold, wind dampness, and wind heat. Typically wind enters through the back of the neck and can cause sickness, pain, or muscle spasms.
Although a different technique, gua-sha is similar to fire cupping. Fire cupping involves placing heated glass cups on the surface of the skin. The heated cups create suction which pulls the skin upward into the cup. The cups are sometimes placed in stationary positions along the spine and sometimes moved across the surface of the skin releasing stagnant blood. The suction often creates circular red marks.
Gua-sha is not painful. Although the different tools produce different experiences, many patients report that it feels similar to deep tissue massage. The marks on the skin can last for a few days, but most patients report feeling positive results immediately.
If you want to know more about this and other alternative therapies, or if you would like to make an appointment, please contact us at (919) 891-9991.
