From the Guidelines
Gua sha has limited scientific evidence supporting its effectiveness, and its use should be approached with caution, considering potential risks and benefits, especially for individuals with underlying health conditions 1.
Key Points to Consider
- The practice of gua sha involves scraping the skin with a smooth-edged tool, creating petechiae, which are believed to release toxins and improve energy flow.
- While some individuals report subjective benefits like pain relief or relaxation, these effects may be attributed to increased circulation, the placebo effect, or the therapeutic touch involved rather than the specific technique itself.
- Gua sha is generally safe when performed by a trained professional using proper technique and sterilized tools, but it can cause bruising, soreness, and minor skin irritation.
- People with bleeding disorders, skin conditions, or those taking blood thinners should avoid this treatment.
- The evidence provided does not directly address the effectiveness of gua sha, but it discusses various noninvasive treatments for acute, subacute, and chronic low back pain, including massage, spinal manipulation, and superficial heat, which may have some relevance to the mechanisms and effects attributed to gua sha 1.
Recommendations
- If considering gua sha, consult with a healthcare provider first, especially if you have underlying health conditions.
- Be aware of the potential risks and benefits and discuss these with your healthcare provider.
- Consider alternative treatments with stronger scientific evidence supporting their effectiveness for your specific condition.
- Always prioritize evidence-based treatments that have been proven to improve morbidity, mortality, and quality of life outcomes 1.
From the Research
Effectiveness of Gua Sha
- Gua Sha has been found to be effective in reducing pain and improving health status in patients with chronic neck and low back pain 2, 3.
- A study published in 2012 found that patients with chronic neck pain and low back pain reported significant pain reduction and improved health status after receiving Gua Sha treatment 2.
- Another study published in 2011 found that Gua Sha was effective in reducing neck pain severity and improving functional status in patients with chronic neck pain 3.
Physiological Effects of Gua Sha
- Gua Sha has been found to increase microcirculation in the treated area, which may contribute to its pain-relieving effects 4.
- A study published in 2007 found that Gua Sha caused a fourfold increase in microcirculation in the treated area, and this increase was associated with a decrease in myalgia 4.
Safety and Tolerability of Gua Sha
- Gua Sha has been found to be safe and well-tolerated, with no adverse events reported in several studies 2, 3, 4.
- A study published in 2011 found that Gua Sha was safe and well-tolerated, with no serious adverse events reported 3.