07/14/2023
Gua Sha
Physiopedia has a good explanation of Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM or Graston which is a trademarked term) vs Gua Sha
"The technique itself is said to have evolved from Gua sha which is a method used in Chinese medicine. Gua sha uses instruments with smoothed edges to scrape the skin till red blemishes occur. However, Gua sha has a different rationale, goals, and application method from IASTM."
There's also a video explaining the mechanics of IASTM
https://www.physio-pedia.com/Instrument_Assisted_Soft_Tissue_Mobilization
From the Clinical Modalities Notes "Gua sha releases the Exterior Gua sha mimics sweating and releases the Exterior by venting Heat, moving Qi, Blood and Jin fluid, stabilizing the pores, the Li lining, and halting pe*******on of Wind, Cold, Damp or Heat. According to Nielsen, any pathogenic factor is said to be weakened, while
the body’s Wei Qi is fortified.
Helping facilitate the release of the Exterior encourages a more rapid resolution and
return to health. It prevents progression of illness to chronic unresolved syndromes like chronic cough, sinusitis, diarrhea, or fatigue. The notion of ‘first treat the Exterior, then the Interior’ extends to any patient presenting with Exterior signs: pain or constriction, or evidence of sha upon palpation. Gua sha treatment may help prevent potential acute illness.
Gua sha moves Blood externally and internally, promotes Blood production and improves dissemination of fluids. Nielsen writes that “Given its ability to move stuck Qi and Blood, release the Exterior, vent Heat, disseminate fluids and stimulate creation of new Blood, Gua sha becomes a relevant tool of treatment for almost any presenting disorder.”
Original Editor - Mohamed Kassim Abdul Wahab
