Graston Technique and Gua Sha are specialized tools used in massage therapy to help address chronic tension, scar tissue, and areas of restricted movement. These techniques allow the therapist to reach deeper layers of muscle and fascia that hands alone sometimes cannot fully access. While both methods share similarities, each has its own unique approach and benefits.

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What Are They?

Graston Technique uses stainless steel instruments designed to gently break down scar tissue and fascial restrictions. These tools allow the therapist to detect tight or restricted areas and treat them with precise, one-direction movements, improving mobility and circulation.

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Gua Sha is an ancient healing method rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Practitioners have used smooth-edged tools made of jade, stone, horn, or bone for thousands of years. Gua Sha involves scraping the skin’s surface in a one-direction motion to release stagnation, improve circulation, and break up adhesions in the muscle and connective tissue.

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While some forms of Gua Sha are applied aggressively and can cause bruising, my approach is more gentle and intuitive, working with your body’s natural responses to promote healing without unnecessary discomfort.

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Why I Love Gua Sha​

Gua Sha has always been one of my favorite techniques for breaking up adhesions, improving circulation, and helping reduce lymphatic fluid in the extremities. When used on the feet, it can also support those experiencing neuropathy or bone spurs.

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Gua Sha traditionally uses a flat piece of wood, metal, stone, horn, or even a simple porcelain soup spoon to lightly scrape the skin and encourage circulation.

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A more modern variation of this ancient technique is known as IASTM (Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization), made popular by makers such as Graston and Hawk tools. These instruments, often used in the mainstream medical profession, have their roots in Gua Sha.

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IASTM tools are usually made from titanium, copper, or medical-grade stainless steel, and are available in a variety of shapes and sizes. Both traditional Gua Sha and IASTM tools can be used for:

• Lymphatic drainage

• Nerve and circulation stimulation

• Scar tissue and adhesion reduction

• Skin tightening

• Ischemic (restricted blood flow) muscle relief—helpful for athletes and everyday clients alike

 

Don’t let the look of the tools intimidate you—they’re cool to the touch, medical-grade stainless steel, antifungal, hypoallergenic, and antibacterial.

Feel free to request this technique during your session. There is no additional charge for adding it in.

 

Please note: You may feel a degree of nerve stimulation, mild soreness, or a Herxheimer (“detox”) response after your session. These effects are temporary and part of the body’s natural healing process.

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How They’re Used in Massage Therapy

• The therapist applies oil or lotion to allow the tool to glide smoothly over the skin.

• Using quick, precise movements in a single direction, the tool is guided along muscle fibers, fascia, or scar tissue to release adhesions and tension.

• I focus on listening to your body, working intuitively to respond to areas that need attention, ensuring a gentler experience than traditional aggressive scraping.

 

Benefits of Graston & Gua Sha

These techniques support a variety of concerns, including:

• Scar tissue and post-surgical recovery – breaking down adhesions and improving flexibility.

• Carpal tunnel and repetitive strain injuries – easing tension in overworked muscles and tendons.

• Chronic pain relief – releasing stubborn knots and muscle tightness.

• Injury recovery – supporting mobility and circulation for faster healing.

• Stress relief – promoting relaxation and reducing physical and mental tension.

• Improved circulation – encouraging blood flow and lymphatic drainage.

• Enhanced mobility and flexibility – loosening tight muscles and connective tissue.

• Headaches and neck tension – reducing stress held in upper body muscles.

 

Precautions

Results may vary from person to person. Mild soreness, nerve stimulation, or light bruising can occur, especially in areas with tight muscles or scar tissue. These effects are typically temporary and part of the body’s natural healing response.

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Please inform me if you have medical conditions such as active infections, open wounds, blood clotting disorders, or if you are taking blood thinners, as these techniques may need to be adjusted or avoided.

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Personalized, Gentle Care

Every body is unique, and every session is tailored to your specific needs. My focus is on working with your body, not against it. By listening intuitively to how your muscles respond, I provide a gentler form of Gua Sha and Graston therapy that encourages healing, enhances mobility, and promotes relaxation—while respecting your comfort and safety.