Traditional Chinese Medicine relies on a variety of modalities to impact the Qi and different Patterns of the body. Gua Sha is one such modality that has been used for centuries, and has gained popularity in the modern wellness world in recent years. In this article, Evolve’s Dr. Peter Wood gives an introduction to Gua Sha and explains how he uses it with patients.
As a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) practitioner, Gua Sha is one of the techniques I
regularly use to help patients restore balance, release stagnation, and support the body’s natural
healing processes. The term “Gua Sha” translates to “scraping sand,” referring to the reddish,
speckled appearance that often emerges on the skin after treatment. It’s a deceptively simple
method—using a smooth-edged tool to gently scrape the skin—but the effects can be profound.
In Chinese medicine, we understand illness and discomfort as resulting from blockages or imbalances in the flow of Qi and Blood. Gua Sha works by stimulating circulation in areas where stagnation has built up, allowing the body to clear out pathogenic factors like Wind, Cold, or Heat. It’s especially effective for muscular tension, headaches, colds, and lingering fatigue, but I’ve also seen it bring emotional and energetic relief in cases of anxiety and stress.
One area where Gua Sha shines is in the treatment of sports injuries. Whether it’s a sprained
ankle, tight hamstring, or shoulder strain, Gua Sha can help break up adhesions, reduce
inflammation, and speed up the healing of soft tissue. For athletes or active individuals, it’s an
excellent way to enhance recovery, improve mobility, and prevent minor injuries from becoming
chronic issues. I often integrate it into treatment plans alongside acupuncture and herbal
medicine to support optimal performance and long-term resilience.
Gua Sha treatment is tailored to each individual—choosing specific channels and areas based on
their symptoms and constitution. While the red or purple marks that appear afterward can be
surprising to first-time patients, they’re completely normal and fade within a few days. These
markings aren’t bruises but signs that Stagnant Blood and Heat are being released.
What I love about Gua Sha is its ability to deliver immediate, tangible results. Many patients report feeling lighter, clearer, or more relaxed after just one session. It’s a great example of how TCM combines ancient wisdom with a practical, hands-on approach to healing.
Whether you’re dealing with injury rehab, chronic pain, acute illness, or just feeling stuck in your
body or mind, Gua Sha can be a gentle but powerful way to reset. If you’re curious
or have questions, Dr. Wood is always happy to talk more about how it might support your specific health
goals. You can book an appointment with Dr. Wood online or email us at info@evolvevancouver.ca.
Please note that any advice in this article doesn’t replace personalized medical advice from a professional.