Gua sha is a traditional Chinese healing method in which a trained professional uses a smooth-edged tool to stroke your skin while they press on it. This motion raises small, red, rash-like dots that show under your skin called petechiae.

People use gua sha to treat chronic pain all over their body. They often do it alongside other complementary treatments like herbal medicine, massage, acupuncture, and heat therapy.

This process is believed to help blood flow and create a “lifting” effect on your skin, which some say may help lessen toxins in your body and promote healing.

Guasha works for:

• women near menopause
• people with neck and shoulder pain from computer use
• male weightlifters, to help with recovery after training
• older adults with back pain