Chinese Medicine
Gua sha is a massage technique used in Chinese medicine to relieve pain and muscle tension. It is applied using massage oil and a rounded edged instrument like a ceramic spoon. Gua sha improves local circulation and breaks up scar tissue or adhesions in the muscles and connective tissue. This technique can be performed anywhere on the body, but is commonly done on the back, neck and shoulders. It is also a great adjunctive technique for treating a common cold or respiratory conditions. Like cupping, gua sha can produce temporary markings on the skin called petechiae, which naturally dissipate in a few days and are associated with improved blood flow to the area.
