Article by Rodd Sanchez

Sydney Acupuncturist Rodd Sanchez uses an array of Traditional chinese medicine procedures to assist patients with their recovery. These range from acupuncture both traditional and laser, Chinese herbal medicine (granulated and patent), cupping, massage and Gua Sha - Scraping. This article is a short introduction in to the skill, method and art know as Gua Sha 

Gua Sha or scraping has had a long history in Traditional Chinese Medicine in China. Unlike acupuncture it is a totally non-invasive procedure that can be performed in the clinical setting or at home. It is the technique and practise of rubbing the skin with an implement that will increase blood circulation at that localised area. ypically used for conditions of pain relief and or for expelling Wind evils (a.k.a-colds and flues).

 The procedure it self: the Practice of Gua Sha

 Firstly, a few drops of Gua Sha oil on to the skin surface. This oil is specifically designed for the Gua Sha treatment; it contains medical herbs with properties which will enhance the blood moving (circulating) or toxin eliminating function of Gua Sha treatment. Gua Sha tool (there are many to choose from), or a coin, soup spoon, or metal cap (some of these are used by other practitioner, but not used in clinic) and slowly and continuously making long strokes, rub down from the neck down the posterior aspect of the back (which is the most common area, but not the only area - other areas are also treated).

Initially one will be able to start to see a few red spots that will guide you where to concentrate on. The technique is continued for approx 5 - 10 min depending on the condition and severity. You may find that some purple marks could also appear in some patients. These marks are not sought out when dealing with infants, only a pink glow is sufficient.

Gua Sha is safe, simple and effective traditional procedure to do. The marks (if any) will only be viable for a few days, before disappearing as will the condition which the patient presented with.  

Gua Sha can be used to alleviate the following:

Chronic degenerative diseases,
Migraines
Chronic neck pain
Chronic shoulder pain
Back pain
Bone spurs
Strains and sprains
Menstrual disorders
Insomnia
Heart disease
Hypertension
Vertigo
Sinusitis
Ear and eye disorders
Chronic infections
Sciatica
Osteo arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis
Bursitis,
Neuralgia
Asthma
Carpal tunnel syndrome
Stress,
Digestive disorders,
Muscle aches
Skin disorders ...........And much more

About the author:

Rodd Sanchez is a practitioner of Traditional Chinese Medicine (Acupuncture & Chinese Herbal Medicine) and clinic director. In the past he has been a nurse working in the field of psychiatrics, paediatrics and age care. At present he is a lecture, guest speaker and student clinic supervisor for the Sydney Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine- His interest are traditional therapeutic methods and therapeutic Chinese dietary therapy

18 Jan 2011

Article/Information supplied by Rodd Sanchez

Disclaimer - Any general advice given in any article should not be relied upon and should not be taken as a substitute for visiting a qualified medical Doctor.

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