Gua Sha is a healing method within Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)  in which a (massage) therapist uses a smooth-edged tool, often made by jade stone or quartz, to stroke skin whilst pressing on it.  In terms of therapy, cupping and Gua Sha share similar goals, but Gua Sha focuses more on loosening tight muscles, and getting rid of muscle knots, whereas cupping aims more at increasing circulation within the body.

Gua Sha is used to treat chronic pain all over the body.  It combines well with other complementary treatments like acupuncture and massage.