Scraping

Scraping Therapy, also known as Gua Sha or Graston Technique, is a manual therapy technique that involves using a smooth-edged tool to scape the skin and undrlying tissue.  This technique is used to address soft tissue restrictions, pain, and limited range of motion, by stimulating blood flow, breaking down adhesions, and promoting healing.  A heated stainless steel tool is used to scrape the lubricated skin in certain patterns, breaking down adhesions and scar tissue, increasing blood flow and releasing muscle tension.  

The technique creates a mechanical stimulus that can trigger the body's natural healing response, including increase blood flow and potential bruising which resolves within a few days.  

Scraping Therapy is used for various conditions:

• tendinitis
• plantar fasciitis
• carpal tunnel syndrome
• muscle strains
• facsial adhesions 
• scar tissue 
• frozen shoulder

Potential benefits:

• Pain reduction.  Scraping therapy can reduce pain by addressing the underlying causes of pain, such as muscle tightness and adhesions.  
• Improved range of motion.  By releasing restrictions in the soft tissies, scraping therapy can imrpove flexibility and range of motion.
• Enhanced healing.  Increased blood flow and tissue mobilization can promote faster healing of injuries and reduce inflammation.  

Discomfort and side effects:

While not intended to be painful, scraping theapy can cause some discomfort or mild bruiding, which is usually temporary.