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Gua sha (scraping)

刮痧

A listing is not a recommendation.

Origin: China (similar methods also exist in Southeast Asia) · Tradition: A folk and clinical method in Chinese medicine · Manual therapy & points

What it is

A traditional method of stroking the oiled skin in one direction with a smooth board, producing petechiae (sha). Self-care or cosmetic gua sha often uses much lighter pressure than traditional gua sha.

A short introduction (not a treatment instruction)

For a first attempt, guidance from a professional is better. For self-care, use only very light pressure, and be especially careful on the face.
Use a clean tool and oil, and do not scrape the same place hard many times.
Avoid strong gua sha that produces petechiae before sport or work, and when using an anticoagulant.

Symptoms or aims often mentioned with this practice

Stiff shoulders
Neck pain
Early signs of a cold
Muscle stiffness

Research notes (this is not a promise of effect)

C: Preliminary, small, or lower-quality studies, or mixed results. These notes should not be over-read

There are systematic reviews for musculoskeletal pain, but the evidence is insufficient to preliminary. A therapeutic meaning of producing petechiae themselves has not been established.

Sources

Safety notes

Skin injury, infection, and bruising. It can be mistaken for abuse or a bleeding disorder. Strong gua sha on the face can injure capillaries.

If you are unsure, or if you have a health condition, are pregnant, or take medicine, consult a qualified professional.

Situations in which this is better avoided

A tendency to bleed, or an anticoagulant
A skin infection or a wound
The abdomen and lumbosacral area in pregnancy
A tumour site