Gua Sha is an accompaniment technique used to heal or prevent ailments in addition to acupuncture and Chinese massage treatments. Gua means rubbing or friction. Sha means the red appearance of blood congestion at the surface of the body.
A Little More In Depth
This technique involves cutaneous stimulation and palpation where pressure is applied on the skin in repeated strokes by specific tools. This raised the appearance of small red petechiaes known as „sha‟ which will fade in 2-4 days. „Sha‟ can be used as diagnostic and prognostic indicators.
Gua Sha is considered an adaptogenic technique. By balancing Qi, it can cools a person suffering from heat, warms a person who is chilled, give nourishment to patient who is deprived, and clears excess. Gua Sha will be considered by experts if there is pain or discomfort or upper respiratory ailments or digestive problems. If the palpation indicates „Sha‟, Gua Sha will be used.
After treatment is given, patient is instructed to cover the area and avoid wind and exposure to sun or any sudden changes in temperature. It is recommended for patient to rest on the day of treatment and do light stretching but not heavy workout.
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