Introduction
Gua Sha is a traditional Chinese technique that involes applying the edge of a special tool to the skin in a scraping motion. "Gua" means--scrape, "Sha" means--sand. "Sand in this context refers to a rough, irregular texture that can be felt easily by a the person doing the scraping as the edge of the tool moves asross injured or chronically painful tissue.
During treatment, the skin over the treated area will generally become red, forming petechiae. These are pin sized red dots resulting from micro bruising. This is perceived as a positive sign. Traiditional practictioners see the appearance to fthe redness or "sha" as a release of toxins and stagnant blood, allowing "chi" or life inergy to flow freely through affected tissues.
Theory
Breaking down irregular collagen fibers, or scar tissue, decreasing pain and improved range of motion are likely the major benifits from this treatment.
From a western perspective, the petchiae and breaking down of the collagen fibers causes an increased healing response in the body sending in macrophanges to "clean up" and remove cellular debris and fiberoblasts to repair soft tissue.
Normal reaction to treatment
During the first minutes of treantment, a mild skin redness occurs as the tools edge stimulates capillary dilation. After a loger period you may experience warmth, petechiae (the rash like area of small, possibly raised dots) and possible tenderness. Petechiae and tenderness to the touch can persist for several days after treatment. In rare cases petechiae or bruising may be permanent.
For any one wanting more info or would like to be scraped or learn how to do this technique themself I am willing to help, just ask. You can see or purchase the tools at
www.guashaorthopedic.com
