The study of acupuncture is most widely known for inserting needles. However, other techniques are just as important, such as Gua Sha!
Gua Sha is a traditional East Asian healing technique to restore the flow of blood and qi to the body. A smooth edged instrument is used to make pressing strokes along a lubricated area of the body. Gua sha can relieve pain and stimulate the immune system and is used for a variety of conditions including:
- Musculo-skeletal pain: neck pain, frozen shoulder, tennis elbow etc…
- Respiratory conditions: cough, colds, flu and fever
- Inflammatory conditions: arthritis,
- Stress, insomnia and fatigue
Gua Sha intentionally creates transitory therapeutic petechiae –raised bumps on the skin that are most often red or purple. The appearance of ‘sha’ fades within a few days. The technique helps to restore normal blood flow through connective tissue and muscles so that blood moves more smoothly between organs and the extremities.
Gua Sha can have an immediate effect on acute conditions such as cough and fever. It can also be used as a long-term restorative treatment for chronic conditions. For the acupuncturist, Gua Sha can help to ‘move blood’ across a larger area of the body which is not so achievable with needles alone. It also can be used diagnostically to better understand the condition of a patient’s blood as well as see where the flow is disrupted.
Gua Sha works very well in conjunction with acupuncture. Discover for yourself by contacting our practice to book an appointment for you and your family.
I look forward to seeing you soon,
Nadine
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