At First State Health & Wellness, we continue to explore new therapeutic modalities to enhance our patients’ well-being.
Gua sha, an ancient Chinese therapy, has emerged as a powerful tool against pain—and it could be the key to unlocking a more balanced life for you.
I’ve used instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization and gua sha for treatment with very positive results.”
Stacy Kelly
Unveiling the Origin and Essence of Gua Sha
Gua sha is a therapy derived from ancient traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) that dates back over 5000 years. Its primary aim is to mobilize the flow of Qi, the vital energy that supports health. The therapy involves scraping the skin using a massage tool, traditionally made of bone or jade but now made of metal. This scraping action stimulates blood flow and relieves pain, inviting the body to heal from within.
Gua Sha and the Chiropractic Connection
During chiropractic school, Dr. Camac first encountered gua sha and its more updated version, instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM). The tool’s capability to enhance the body’s innate capacity to heal made it a perfect addition to his practice.
Understanding Misconceptions About gua sha
Many may question the effectiveness of gua sha and associate it with an uncomfortable scraping, but the practice targets fascial adhesions and muscle knots to restore ease in movement and reduce pain. It also offers holistic benefits, restoring harmony to the mind and spirit. Traditional Chinese principles hold that the scraping action symbolizes the removal of stagnation, not just in the body but also in the mind.
Experience the Benefits Today
Patients who’ve experienced gua sha have reported relief from various types of pain, including migraines, and a notable boost in overall well-being. This TCM practice has also shown remarkable results in several clinical studies when used with other therapies to speed up the healing process and promote recovery.
Incorporating gua sha into your care at First State Health & Wellness could lead to better holistic health. Want to give it a try? Book a session today!
CONTACT US »