THERAPIES
Gua Sha 刮痧
Gua Sha is a traditional Chinese medicine technique that uses a smooth-edged tool to scrape the skin, in Chinese medicine theory it is able to stimulate blood flow and breaking up stagnation in the underlying tissues and clear heat in the body. At MRA, it is used as an adjunct therapy alongside acupuncture.
ABOUT GUA SHA
What it is and how it works
A smooth-edged tool is used to repeatedly scrape along the surface of oiled skin until reddish petechiae (tiny red dots known as "sha" or sand) appear.
The purpose of this scraping action is to stimulate microcirculation in the soft tissue beneath the skin, break up areas of stagnation this promotes the body. In Chinese Medicine, stagnation is considered a root cause of pain, hormonal imbalance and systemic dysfunction making Gua Sha a useful tool for a range of presentations.
Gua Sha is applied to specific areas of the body depending on the clinical indication. It is most commonly applied to the upper back.
At MRA Kim, Meg and Jo use Gua Sha as an adjunct to acupuncture incorporated into your treatment session where they consider if it clinically appropriate, rather than offered as a standalone treatment.
What to expect after Gua Sha
Gua Sha produces temporary redness and petechiae (the "sha") on the skin. This is the intended therapeutic response and indicates areas of stagnation being resolved. It is not bruising and is generally painless, fading within 3–5 days.
You may feel mild surface tenderness or heat in the treated area the day following treatment, along with a sense of lightness or relief in areas that were previously tight or congested. Many patients find it deeply relaxing.
Interested in Gua Sha during your next session?
If you are specifically coming for Gua Sha please ask your practitioner or leave us a booking note.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Questions about
gua sha answered
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Gua Sha is not offered as a standalone treatment at Melbourne Reproductive Acupuncture. It is incorporated into your acupuncture session when your practitioner feels it is appropriate and may complement your individualised treatment.
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Gua Sha should not be painful. You may experience pressure or a scraping sensation during treatment. Temporary redness or small areas of discolouration can occur and usually resolve within several days.
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Gua Sha is not appropriate for everyone or every area of the body. Your practitioner will consider your health history, medications and skin condition when deciding whether it is suitable for you.