Gua Sha is a scraping technique used to intentionally raise a reddish skin rash through repeated scraping movements and applied pressure while using a handheld tool.
The handheld instrument, sometimes in the shape of a ceramic soup spoon or a thin disc (such as a coin), must have a curved surface. Many practitioners prefer to use the traditional tool; a polished water buffalo horn made specifically for use in Gua Sha.
The tool is positioned over troubled areas of the body and skin which have been lubricated with massage oil and scraped repeatedly with firm pressure. Such compression of the soft tissue raises the 'Sha,' causing what appears to be a temporary bruising.
Although this apparent bruising can sometimes be mistaken for a painful injury, it is usually completely painless. The marks usually fade quickly (usually within 2 - 3 days), and are actually regarded as part of the treatment. The 'Sha' also provides a visual cue that cues the practitioner of the condition of blood flow in the area where treatment has been applied. This diagnostic indicator can act as feedback before beginning treatments for anything ranging from neck tension to sciatica pain relief.
Application of the Gua Sha technique requires some knowledge of the way the muscles of the body connect and move together. Without some understanding of the anatomy of the human body, a novice can do little good using this technique. But a student well versed in human anatomy and physiology possesses all the necessary skills needed to evaluate, treat, and relieve bodily issues caused by tension, stress, and illness.
In the hand of a proficient practitioner, the Gua Sha technique can be used to address many different bodily ailments. And, although used most often on the back, buttocks, shoulders, and neck, Gua Sha can also be used to enhance function of the immune system and rid the body of toxins and pathologies such as the common cold. When used to address sciatica, sciatica pain relief can come quickly, with relief of the numbness and pain associated with compression of the sciatic nerve.
When used in conjunction with acupuncture, the red marks associated with Gua Sha are often used to indicate the presence of bodily toxins, oxygen deficiency, and the stagnation of Qi, or vital energy. Following the application of Gua Sha, your acupuncturist should easily be able to read these diagnostic signs and tailor an acupuncture session to target the particular problems shown. This identification and narrowing of the treatment area can be a wonderful diagnostic aid, allowing for a more focused treatment when applying acupuncture for stress management or any other condition requiring treatment.
Gua Sha can be used as a treatment for many ailments and conditions and is generally considered a safe healing modality. But, Gua Sha should not be applied:
- To people with weak constitutions
- During pregnancy
- Immediately following surgery
- To people suffering with bleeding disorders
- To patients taking anti-coagulant medications such as warafrin
- Over varicose veins, open wounds, or skin diseases
Following the application of Gua Sha, the patient should rest for a short while and drink some warm water. It is also recommended that the patient refrain from taking a shower or bath for at least one hour following the session, and that a cold water bath or shower should be avoided for at least 24-hours. In addition, it is important for the patient to keep all treatment areas warm, covered up, and protected from windy conditions following treatment.
Robert Vena is a top NJ Acupuncturist. Visit his website to learn more about acupuncture treatments.
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