Gua sha is a traditional East Asian medical treatment that uses smooth edged and blunt instruments or tools to reduce muscle tension and to facilitate breakdown of scar tissue.  The skin is lubricated and the tools are used to apply pressure using repeated, smooth strokes. English speakers sometimes refer to Gua sha as “scraping”, “spooning”, or “coining”.

When our muscles are tight, achy, fatigued, sore, or injured, they need good blood flow to help loosen and heal them. The friction caused by Gua sha can encourage fresh, oxygenated blood flow to the treated areas.  When our muscles get a fresh supply of blood, toxins that produce pain are removed and tissues become rejuvenated.  Inflammation can be reduced. The result is healing, recovery, and restoration of movement in muscles and joints.

Gua sha can be a helpful for a variety of ailments and conditions.  It can aid in treating neck pain, back pain, shoulder pain, tendinitis issues, and general muscle and joint stiffness.  Gua sha is a well-established treatment that could be an essential part of your own recovery and healing process.