Guasha

Guasha is a traditional East Asian healing technique in which a smooth-edged tool is used to scrape the skin. It is commonly associated with Traditional Chinese Medicine and related practices. The name combines gua, scraping, and sha, a term referring to a temporary stagnation or a rash produced by scraping.

Procedure and tools: Lubricant is applied to the skin, and a jade, horn, bone, metal, or ceramic instrument is drawn across the surface in short strokes. Common target areas include the back, neck, and shoulders; facial guasha is also used in some beauty treatments. The skin typically reddens and may bruise for several days after a session.

Uses and evidence: Guasha is used in traditional practice for musculoskeletal pain, muscle tension, and some upper respiratory symptoms. It is widely available in spa and wellness settings as well as clinics in parts of East Asia. Scientific evidence is limited and mixed; some small studies report short-term pain relief for certain conditions, but high-quality trials are lacking and findings are inconclusive.

Safety and considerations: Potential risks include skin injury, infection, and bruising. It should not be performed on broken skin, active skin infections, severe dermatitis, or in people with bleeding disorders or on anticoagulants. Practitioners emphasize hygiene, proper technique, and individual assessment, and individuals should consult a healthcare professional if unsure about suitability.