Gua Sha is a technique in which a smooth friction is applied in repeated, even strokes with a flat tool to the skin’s surface.

Gua in Chinese means “to rub” or create friction. Sha is the term used to describe congestion of blood at the surface of the body. When friction is applied, the congested blood (sha) surfaces appear as small red bumps (petichiae). In minutes the bumps fade into red patches. The sha (congested blood) disappears totally in two to four days. The color and rate of fading are both diagnostic and prognostic indicators. There is no pain or lasting discoloration to the skin and the procedure is completely safe.

This method improves circulation of blood and lymph, promotes healthy metabolic processes and removes toxins. It is used to treat a variety of acute and chronic health conditions including fever, cold and flu, muscular and tendons pain, stiffness, fibromyalgia, cough, bronchitis and asthma.

The AcupunctChi Clinic performs Gua Sha as an addition to the Tui Na, acupressure and acupuncture for the treatment of stagnation in the digestive tract, patients with shingles and for pain reduction and detoxification for patients undergoing cancer treatment.

For more information on Gua Sha, please contact us or make an appointment.