Gua Sha
Gua Sha is an important medical treatment used throughout Asia for centuries. “Gua” means ‘to rub’ and “sha” is the small red dots called ‘petechiae’ that appear on the skin surface, when Gua Sha is performed. The redness disappears in 2-3 days after treatment. Pain can be shifted immediately using this technique and relief can last until the Sha has gone.
The benefits of Gua Sha are numerous. It resolves spasms and pain to promote normal circulation to the muscles, tissues and organs. Gua Sha causes a 4-fold increase in microcirculation of surface tissue and can reduce inflammation and stimulate the immune system. Gua Sha gives excellent results in helping reduce excess heat and cold in your body, that can be contributing to fertility issues. Sometimes IVF medication can make you feel uncomfortably hot to the point you can’t sleep or get through a day at work, Gua Sha can remedy this almost instantly. It can also lift the spirit and create a feeling of emotional wellness.
During your acupuncture session, I may use Gua Sha in combination with needling, depending on the diagnosis.