Research shows that soft tissue mobilisation can be effective in releasing constricted muscles, alleviating musculoskeletal pain, and restoring flexibility to the joints, ligaments, and tendons of the body.
Many therapists and athletes can perform this type of procedure using their hands and fingers, however, using an Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilisation (IASTM) tool can make this job a whole lot easier.
There is a range of different tools that can perform IASTM, and they’re typically made with stainless steel.
Some are oriented toward one body part, and others aim to tackle different parts with one tool.
They’re typically made of stainless steel or stone, making them sanitary, easy to clean, smooth and firm enough to penetrate muscle tissue with minimal force applied.
Some IASTM tools are called “gua sha” tools (Gua sha comes from traditional Chinese medicine, in which skin scraping was practised to move stagnant blood and stimulate health).
In this post, I’ll compare 10 of the best muscle-scraping tools on the market and help you find the best tool for you.
In a healthy system, muscles are able to move around while relaxed, as the fascia around the muscle keeps it lubricated.
When the fascia becomes tightened and fibrous, it can create muscle adhesions, making you susceptible to chronic pain, and more injury-prone. [1].
Two popular techniques that clinicians and massage therapists use for myofascial release massage are instrument assisted fascias mobilization (IAFM) and instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM).
Both techniques employ special tools that are designed to target different areas of the body where the fascia (the smooth layer of connective tissue that surrounds the muscular system and other organs) is constricted.
Below is a brief description of each technique.
- IAFM – This technique focuses on releasing restrictions in the superficial and deep layers of the fascia in order to restore power and range of motion to the muscles, joints, and ligaments. IAFM is performed by physical therapists, osteopaths, and chiropractors, with the aid of a variety of curved metal instruments that are designed to break up muscle adhesions and scar tissue.
- IASTM – This technique, also called the Graston technique, is a newer type of treatment that focuses on improving soft tissue mobility. To perform IASTM, clinicians and therapists use a variety of smooth, metal “blades” to create deep pressure and encourage blood flow in areas of the body that are affected by soft tissue dysfunction and chronic inflammation.
While further research on the therapeutic effectiveness of IAFM and IASTM is needed, research suggests that IASTM can help improve soft tissue function and range of movement as well as reduce pain in those suffering from acute or chronic sports injuries.
Features to Look At When Choosing a Muscle Scraping Tool
When shopping for an IASTM tool, here are some factors to consider:
Versatility
Considering soft tissue is all over your body, the ideal IASTM tool has an all-in-one design for versatility.
While some tools are more one-dimensional, others feature multiple edges and even a sphere tip for pinpoint trigger point release.
Look for an IASTM tool that can tackle both tiny crevices between tendons, as well as large smooth muscle surfaces.
Shape
Each tool is designed to be used in a different manner, so it’s important to consider how the tool will be used.
Generally speaking, sharper edges offer more precision, while blunt edges are better for treating larger areas of the body.
Material
The material an IASTM tool is made with affects its weight and the feel on your skin.
Some are made of stainless steel, stone and other materials.
Sanitation is also a factor, so be sure your tool is made of non-porous material.
Grip
Grip is a major factor affecting an IASTM tool’s ease of use.
If it hurts your fingers as you grip it, then fatigue will prevent you from getting the tissue release you need.
Some tools are 2-dimensional, and the flat hard grip becomes painful when you’re using it on yourself.
Tools that are 3-dimensional are easier to grip, and some have a special ergonomic grip enabling you to hold the tool in your fist.
This can help you better control the tool and use its edges more intuitively.
Bevelled edges
Another important consideration when choosing a myofascial release tool is the number of bevelled edges it has.
Single-bevelled tools provide deeper penetration but they can only be used in one direction.
Double-bevelled edges are more versatile in that they can be used in any direction, but they provide less penetration.
Price
When it comes to quality, not all IASTM tools are equal.
Generally, the less expensive tools are less effective than the more expensive ones.
Furthermore, many lower quality tools only have one bevelled edge, limiting the versatility of the tool.
In this section, I’ll review the best IASTM tools based on price, ease of use, and overall customer satisfaction.
Myofascial Releaser Ellipse Pro
The Myofascial Releaser Ellipse Pro is made of stainless steel and it’s used sometimes with cream or emollient to stroke the surface of a muscle and release the fascia.
This tool features three holes your fingers can use to grip the tool as you move it along your body.
It’s made to model what masseuses hands attempt to do for small areas of muscle and connective tissue, but it’s able to do it better due to the thin edge and firm steel material.
It has a small knob at the end for digging into tissue like a massage head.
The product comes with a manual that instructs you through how to release different muscle groups using the tool, and you can access video tutorials online.
It also comes with a jar of emollient.
The main complaint users have with this tool is that it’s overpriced.
Others complain it’s too difficult to use as a self-myofascial release tool, and that it requires a professional’s work.
On the other hand, those who do have experience say it’s a highly effective and versatile IASTM tool.
Positives
Comes with a guide and emollient
Versatile for use throughout your body
Includes online video tutorials
Negatives
Expensive
May be difficult to use correctly without experience
Ergo Myofascial Releaser Tool
In the same price range as the Ellipse Pro, the Ergo Myofascial Releaser is also made of stainless steel and comes with an anatomy guidebook for use.
It features a sphere at the tip for pressure-point massage, making it quite versatile for full-body use.
Instead of 3 finger holes for gripping the tool like the Ellipse Pro, it has one handlebar grip you hold.
Unfortunately, it’s not a one-size-fits-all tool, as those with larger hands may find it too small to grip comfortably.
However, many users appreciate being able to grip the tool with their fist because of the power and control it grants you.
On the other hand, even professional users have complained the intensity of this tool is quite strong due to the thin, sharp edge.
Therefore, keep in mind it’s not a beginner’s tool and is designed for advanced therapeutic treatment.
Positives
Easy to control with a fisted grip
All-in-one design for scraping and trigger point release
Negatives
Expensive
Too small for larger hands
Too sharp and intense for some
Bian Stone Gua Sha Massage Tool
This Gua Sha tool is made of natural Bian stone, which is softer than stainless steel and moves smoothly on skin.
This is a package that includes 4 different shaped tools.
It’s a great tool for scraping to release the surface of fascia and quickly boost circulation.
However, there’s no sphere or node for trigger-point release, so it’s not the most versatile tool on the list.
Another major problem is that it’s breakable when dropped, so it’s less durable than a metal tool.
Still, most users consider it a great value for the money.
It’s smooth and can be used on the face, so if you’re new to gua sha tools and IASTM, this is an affordable product you can’t go wrong with.
Positives
Inexpensive
Softer material than metal
Smooth, non-irritating edges
Negatives
Less comfortable to grip
Breakable and less durable than metal
Best for scraping but not trigger point release
IASTM Fascia Massager Tool
The Allshow Gua Sha is a small tool with two edges made with stainless steel.
It doesn’t have a handle-type grip, and it’s two-dimensional, so it’s less comfortable for your hand to hold.
Still, it costs less than the Ellipse Pro and Ergo Myofascial Releaser, but can be used for both scraping and trigger point release.
The medium blunt edge is designed for deep tissue penetration, and the convex and concave edges provide different fits for different body parts.
It has a small ball at one of its ends that you can use to compress trigger points and dig into tiny pockets between muscles or tendons.
Positives
Quality medical-grade stainless steel that feels solid to hold
Versatile
All-in-one design
Negatives
Less comfortable to grip
Small and easier for professionals to use
Stickton K-Shaped Soft Tissue Tool
Whereas the Ergo Myofascial Releaser is too small for large hands and others are uncomfortable to hold, users say the Stickton tool solves the problem of holding a hard, two-dimensional edge.
This tool’s ergonomic design curves with your fingers so the edge of the tool doesn’t dig into them.
The Stickton tool also has curved edges for digging into trigger points, too.
Users say they effectively can use this between small ligaments and hidden pockets on muscles where tension is trapped.
Users say the painless grip and ergonomic balance of the product’s weight make it easy to control for effective myofascial release.
Not only is it light, but it’s also small and portable measuring just 4.5 x 4.5 inches.
Customers have reported that this tool works well and comes at a good price.
Positives
Comfortable ergonomic grip that won’t hurt your hands
Perfect weight and stainless steel material for effective myofascial release
Reasonably low price
Negatives
Despite the ergonomic design to fit your fingers, it can still get uncomfortable still as it is a thin tool
The Wave Tool
The Wave tool is made with a unique plastic material made with nylon and glass, which makes it durable and firm without the price tag of medical grade stainless steel.
It has different sized edges with different angles for different feels.
You get access to instructional videos online to learn ways you can apply the various edges.
Users found this tool to be highly versatile and ergonomic to hold thanks to its 3D design.
Customers who are less happy with the tool have complained about its material, which feels less smooth gliding on skin when used for scraping.
The company may also have a quality control problem, because some users have received Wave tools with sharp edges not sanded down for smoothness.
Overall, the tool packs a lot of value given its price and versatility, as well as durability.
Positives
Durable material
3D ergonomic design makes it easy to grip
Versatile to use on any muscle thanks to its various edges
Negatives
Plastic-like material less smooth on skin compared to stone and metal
May not be best for scraping due to the material
Gua Sha Tool by Cutemedi
CUTEMEDI makes 17 different types of gua sha tools, all made with stainless steel and bevelled edges for a firm, quality feel.
The type you may choose depends on whether you want a tool with a grip for versatile self-use, or if you have a particular area of muscle tissue in mind.
For example, if you have an injured shoulder or Achilles tendon, you’ll want to choose a tool with a shape that fits the area.
Like the Stickton, the ST014 type has a grip your fingers can hold.
In fact, you can hold it from one side or the other, to use a convex edge or concave edge.
The ST008 Type is more 3-dimensional, too, with one finger hole to grip and edges with different angles for different soft tissue areas.
The ST013 Type is also 3-dimensional, with a bar handle you hold and a point on either side that works like a massage head to mobilize soft tissue.
The ST003 is more like a massage stick, and many of the other types are 2-dimensional scraping tools with various shapes.
CUTEMEDI’s tools are quality-made and highly effective. Comparable to expensive models, these ones pack a lot of value for the price.
Because they’re made of stainless steel, they can be slippery to grip and control, especially when using oil. Some users have complained the tools need rubbery grips or ridges for this reason.
Overall, however, customers previously experienced with IASTM have commented that CUTEMEDI’s tools provide the same quality as its more expensive competitors.
Positives
Quality stainless steel makes it sanitary
Firm and smooth
Durable and versatile
Great value considering the price and quality
Negatives
Slippery and difficult to grip
H-Brotaco Stainless Steel Gua Sha Tool
The H-Broctaco is made with medical-grade stainless steel but is more affordable than most stainless steel IASTM tools.
However, it’s two-dimensional, with no grip, with a shape comparable to the Bian Stone gua sha tool.
It’s ideal mostly for scraping, especially when someone else uses two hands to scrape along smooth muscle for you.
Still, you can use the edges to massage in crevices and between tendons and muscles, such as on your shoulder when you cross your arm over to reach it.
You can also use both hands to mobilize soft tissue on your legs when you sit down.
If you have adhesions, this tool may not pack the intensity you need. In fact, some customers complained this is a “knockoff” or “fake” product because it’s so lightweight and flimsy.
The truth is, the stainless steel material is flat and thin, offering a sharp edge but not a good grip for controlling it.
Positives
Great value for the price if you need a general scraping tool
Quality stainless steel material
7.8-inch length makes it perfect for large, smooth muscle surfaces
Negatives
Too large for smaller applications
Difficult to grip for self-use
Less effective for adhesions or tough knots because it’s lightweight
The Original Myofascial Releaser Tool
Like the Ellipse Pro, the Original Myofascial Releaser tool is made of stainless steel and has 3 holes for your fingers. It features a triangle shape with multiple edges for targeting different muscles.
Users appreciate the ability to switch intensities by switching the edge they use, as one is convex and the other concave.
The round tip that acts as a tiny massage ball is also a feature users like, which makes it versatile.
The product comes with an anatomy guidebook with instructions for use throughout your body, as well as a zippered carrying case for safekeeping.
The major problem users have is that the finger holes cause fatigue and pain, and they’re too large for smaller hands.
Others find their hand fits the holes perfectly and that the grip gives them great control when using slippery oils.
Positives
Versatile, with multiple edges and a spherical tip
Quality stainless steel material
Includes carrying case
Negatives
The grip may be too large for small hands
Finger holes can cause pain
Zuka Tools
Whether you’re new to IASTM or you’ve had a professional’s help and are ready to start at home, a toolset can offer you the chance to try out what works best for you.
Whereas some products focus on making the best all-in-one tool, Zuka Tools offers a set with 4 IASTM tools.
One has an S shape with two concave edges for scraping different-sized soft tissue areas.
There’s also a large tool with a single tool, and a long one comparable to a massage stick.
The major problem with the Zuka tools is that it lacks gripping, and with such flat, 2-D edges, it’s hard to keep firm control over the tool, especially when using ointment or oil.
Positives
Provides a selection of IASTM tools to try
Heavier and larger than most IASTM tools like them
Negatives
The 2-dimensional grip can be difficult and slippery for self-use
Expensive
The Best IASTM Tool: Recommendations
The Ergo Myofascial Release tool is top on our list because it has a grip handle allowing you to hold the edge in your fist for perfect control and precision.
Compared to other IASTM tools, this one is a lot more comfortable.
Due to the solid build and its balanced weight, you don’t have to apply much pressure to get tons of benefit from its various edges.
The small ball at the tip of the tool also makes it a winner for versatility because you can use the tool for scraping and trigger point therapy to mobilize soft tissue.
While the Ergo Myofascial Release tool is a great value for its versatility, durability and effectiveness, you can go a lot cheaper if you’re just wanting to try something new.
Myofascial release tools are made from a variety of materials, including bian stone, buffalo horn, jade, and polycarbonate.
Steel myofascial release tools take various forms and shapes, but the most popular ones are bevelled edge tools, handlebar tools, and S-shaped tools
Bevelled Edge Tools
Bevelled edge tools are designed with hard edges that allow for deeper tissue penetration and more effective scar tissue separation.
There are two basic types of bevelled edge tools: single-bevelled and double bevelled.
- Single-bevelled tools are designed to be used in one direction and are ideal for use on larger areas of the body.
- Double-bevelled tools can be used in any direction and are ideal for use on smaller, more sensitive body parts.
Bevelled edge tools are available in many different shapes including blades, spoons, and handlebars.
Handlebar tools
This is a large, bar-shaped tool used to target larger areas of the lower body, such as the hamstrings and quads.
This instrument has handgrips on either side that help the practitioner apply deep pressure in order to break up muscle adhesions and scar tissue.
S-Shaped Tools
This tool is characterized by its S-curved shape. It is ideal for use on smaller areas of the body, such as the hands, wrists, and forearms, calves, and neck.
S-shaped myofascial release tools have two inlets – one with a single-bevelled edge and one with a double-bevelled edge – that allow the tool to be used on different body parts.
Benefits of Using IASTM Tools
By releasing muscular tightness and restrictive adhesions, IASTM benefits your body in several ways:
ImprovesCirculation
Tight fascia and muscle tissue cuts off circulation, but IASTM can help restore it. By penetrating and compressing fibrous muscle tissue, IASTM tools push out old blood and waste fluids from them.
New blood rushes in its wake and carries fresh oxygen and nutrients to help repair the tissue.
Relieves Pain
Myofascial release is linked to pain relief, and IASTM tools are highly effective in achieving myofascial release [2].
They help you work out painful adhesions and muscle knots, keeping your muscles lubricated and oxygenated.
Research also points to a neuromodulation effect, in which myofascial release tools lower pain perception in the brain by promoting hormonal balance [3].
Speeds MuscleRecovery
By boosting blood flow and releasing tightness in muscles and fascia, IASTM tools can help athletes increase the speed of recovery after workouts, and reduce delayed-onset muscle soreness (DOMS).
In fact, one study measured self-perceived muscle soreness within 48 hours after participants exercised strenuously.
It found that participants who used IASTM tools experienced significantly reduced muscle soreness compared to those who didn’t [3].
Helps PreventInjury
Muscle adhesions increase your risk for injury by muscle or connective tissue to “catch” instead of flex freely.
Using IASTM tools before and after workouts lowers your risk for injuring yourself during or after physical activity.
IncreasesYour Range of Motion
By releasing your fascia, IASTM increases your range of motion.
The oxygen and nutrients required for muscle contraction and expansion become more available thanks to the boost in blood flow IASTM provides.
Plus, by working out knots and adhesions, you enable your muscles to move around the way they’re supposed to.
While instrument assisted myofascial release techniques are thought to be generally safe, there are a few safety precautions you should take when performing IAFM and IATSM at home.
Here are a few things to keep in mind when using myofascial release tools.
- If you feel pain, stop. Applying pressure on a muscle should produce feedback, but not pain. If you’re experiencing discomfort, stop and adjust your massage position.
- Learn how to use your tool. These tools must be used carefully as they can cause damage to the body. It is recommended to research how to performmyofascial release properly or choose a tool which comes with a manual.
- Don’t over massage. Experts recommend massaging the affected area for five minutes at one time.
- Remember, myofascial release is not right for everyone. Those with advanced diabetes, aneurysm, acute rheumatoid arthritis, or osteoporosis should consult with their physician before attempting myofascial release at home.
If you’re an athlete or you suffer from chronic pain, having a quality IASTM tool on-hand can keep your muscles healthy and pain at bay.
There are so many different tools, but selecting one that’s highly versatile or buying a set of tools is helpful for beginners to find what works.
As with using any tool on the body to relieve pain, you should proceed with caution and ensure you’re using it properly.
Tissue damage can result in more pain than what you started with, so always be gentle with yourself.
When performing instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilisation at home, investing in the right tools is key.
Use this guide as a starting point when researching and choosing the best IASTM tool for you.
FAQs
What is the name of the tool used for muscle scraping? ›
Traditionally, gua sha has been used to treat many things including pain, headaches, stiffness, nausea, coughs, and colds1. Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM), is a modern take on gua sha. This technique uses a tool usually made of stainless steel, stone, or plastic.
Does muscle scraping work? ›Studies show that muscle scraping may be able to promote better range of motion through the enhancement of blood circulation, alleviation of scar tissue, and improving tendon and tissue extensibility. It's also being considered as a safe and natural way to remodel soft tissue following an injury.
How do you scrape muscle yourself? ›Apply moderate pressure along the edge of the muscle scraper tool as you perform unidirectional strokes. It's very important that you don't change directions. Keep muscle scraping for 15 seconds and then move slightly in one direction or the other, and keep scraping with the same pressure and direction.
How often can you use a scraping tool? ›Typically, patients usually get muscle scraping therapy like Graston Technique® twice a week for 4 to 5 weeks; however, frequency can change and is dependent upon the individual's tolerance and reaction to treatment.
Is Graston the same as scraping? ›The Graston Technique and ConnecTX Therapy are forms of scraping that use different tools or instruments to reach muscles at different angles.
What is the best way of scraping? ›- Inspect the website HTML that you want to crawl.
- Access URL of the website using code and download all the HTML contents on the page.
- Format the downloaded content into a readable format.
- Extract out useful information and save it into a structured format.
Muscle scraping therapy is done to release the body of blood stagnation. It promotes body fluid circulation which helps to normalize cellular metabolic processes and release toxins from your deep cellular tissues.
Does muscle scraping get rid of knots? ›Does Muscle Scraping Get Rid of Knots? Yes! Knots are actually just adhesions, so muscle scraping can be an effective way to eliminate them.
Does scraping reduce inflammation? ›What are the benefits of Scraping Technique? Scraping benefits the injury healing process by reducing pain, increasing range of motion, removing tissue adhesions, and swelling reduction.
What is the Chinese scraping technique? ›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.
Can I do Graston on myself? ›
No, as the Graston Technique® needs to be administered by a trained and certified specialist. That means visiting a chiropractor's office that specializes in the Graston Technique®. The average person at home can't do it themselves.
What is the scraper that chiropractors use? ›Medieval torture device or therapeutic healing method? Graston® – also known as IASTM or 'myofascial scraping' – feels like a bit of both. It's an instrument-assisted method of breaking down scar tissue and eliminating muscle adhesions, increasing blood flow and promoting a better healing environment.
What are the disadvantages of scrapers? ›Possible issues with scrapers
In certain abrasive applications, particles can imbed in the scrapers and cause aggressive wear on the vessel surfaces being scraped. The agitator to which the scrapers are attached could also become exposed to unnecessary stress due to the excessive friction.
Scraping is the only method for producing an original set of flat surfaces from which one can transfer that accuracy through to other surfaces by means of grinding. Lapping and grinding do not achieve the long distance flatness scraping can, as they act on the entire surface rather than local high or low spots.
Why does muscle scraping turn red? ›Yes, muscle scraping will leave marks. The Sha of Gua Sha means petechiae, or the small red spots, that appear on the skin are from hemorrhages of the capillaries. This is a natural response from the body and indicates that the inflamed muscled is healing. At times the muscle site can appear to be bruised.
What is fascia scraping? ›Scraping is one of the best ways to manage fascial restriction, scar tissue, adhesions, and trigger points. Used properly, muscle scraping tools can break apart unhealthy collagen fibers, bring blood flow to the area, and stimulate a small healing response.
Is Graston better than massage? ›The Graston tools allow greater efficiency and consistency, which means quicker results, thus allowing the provider to move on to other areas on the body that need treatment. This helps lead to superior and faster recovery times as well being able to see more patients overall.
What is an alternative to Graston technique? ›Astym (pronounced A-stym) is a similar treatment technique to Graston, though uses different tools and looks at the process through a slightly different approach.
What is alternative to scrape? ›- Supermetrics.
- Hevo.
- Bright Data.
- Lobster_data.
- Rossum.
Accuracy: Scraping is done to align components within millionths of an inch, allowing for consistently-held, tight tolerances.
What is the most common type of scraper? ›
Single-engine wheeled scrapers are the most common type of scrapers. These scrapers have a bowl and an apron.
What is the best massage for muscle knots? ›Deep tissue: The best massage to relieve stress and muscle tension. Deep tissue massage can loosen painful “knots” and realign deeper layers of muscle through a combination of firm pressure and slow strokes. Your therapist will not only work on the usual muscles but on the connective tissue as well.
How long does it take to rub out a muscle knot? ›It takes time for the muscles to adapt to a new motion or recover from stress. Usually within a week or two a muscle knot will resolve on its own.
Is it bad to rub out a knot? ›“Don't” aggressively release a tight muscle knot until you know why it's there. Sometimes, muscle knots exist as a critical compensatory strategy, and if released too quickly, it can set off an array of problems.
Why do chiropractors scrape? ›It's the practice of scraping the skin with a hard, thin tool for a range of purposes. Chiropractors and physical therapists have been using this technique to break up scar tissue, smooth out connective tissue, encourage blood flow and promote better movement of the joints and muscles.
What is the difference between gua sha and Graston? ›Graston is focused more on the breaking up of adhesions and healing through the start of the inflammatory process; whereas Gua Sha is focused on bringing toxins and excessive heat to be released at the surface of the body. Both techniques are effective in promoting healing.
How do you coin your back? ›The practice of coining involves rubbing heated oil on the skin, most commonly the chest, back, or shoul- ders, and then strongly rubbing a coin over the area in a linear fashion until a red mark is seen – a doorway for the wind to get out.
What are the negative side effects of Graston technique? ›Side effects from the Graston Technique are usually mild and include localized swelling, soreness with touch, and mild or moderate bruising. These side effects generally resolve in a couple of days and can be treated at home with ice.
What is the success rate of Graston technique? ›The majority of soft tissue injuries respond well to Graston with research showing an average 87% success rate. A partial list of conditions that respond to Graston Technique includes: Rotator cuff tendonitis/osis and frozen shoulder. Tennis elbow/Golfer's elbow.
Are Graston tools worth it? ›There are a wealth of studies related to the Graston Technique and its effectiveness. Through this intense research, it has been found to be effective as much as 75% to 90% of the time in a range of conditions.
What tool does a chiropractor use for inflammation? ›
EMS is a tool that provides relief by direct muscle stimulation, reducing swelling and inflammation.
How often should you do Graston technique? ›How often does it have to be done? How frequently Graston treatments are recommended can vary based on your individual presentation, goals, and your therapist's assessment. Most typically this treatment is done 1-2x/week with a minimum of 48 hours in between sessions.
What is the machine that breaks up scar tissue? ›Astym is a tool used to break up scar tissue and damaged soft tissue to promote regeneration of healthy tissue to improve one's function. Scar tissue can cause muscle tension, limited flexibility, and range of motion restrictions.
What does gua sha muscle scraping do? ›Also known as “scraping therapy,” the ancient practice of gua sha may help improve circulation, reduce inflammation, and relax muscles. Gua sha tools keep popping up on your feed and promising a youthful face? These small, heart-shaped quartz stones put the ancient Chinese technique of gua sha in the beauty spotlight.
What is the Graston technique called? ›IASTM is the Generic Term for Graston
Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM) is an effective range of manual therapies that enable clinicians to efficiently locate and treat individuals diagnosed with soft tissue dysfunction.
How does the Graston Technique work? Muscles are comprised of different fibers, and as fibers become tight, they build up toxins. The Graston technique uses a stainless-steel instrument and special massage method to identify areas of muscle adhesion, or scar-like tissue, that can be improved.
What is the disadvantage of gua sha? ›Potential Risks. Typically, gua sha is considered safe. However, you may have some bruising or discoloration of your skin. You could also be sore and tender for a short while after you have your treatment.
How quickly do you see results from gua sha? ›For best results, perform your gua sha facial massage daily or at least three to four times a week. But no matter how often you do it, you're likely to see and feel results more quickly than you might expect. Done properly, you will notice results immediately!
Is using gua sha too much bad? ›#5 Applying too much pressure
When we use a Gua Sha stone, it naturally causes redness due to increased blood flow and breaking of small vessels. And while this temporary redness is part of the practice, too much pressure can cause permanent damage.
SMH: Yes, you can incorporate your gua sha into your daily routine. Either in the morning or the evening works fine as long as you take the appropriate time to do it. I always do my facial gua sha in the morning, as it is a fantastic way to reduce puffiness and wake up your facial muscles at the beginning of the day.
How many times a week should I use gua sha? ›
How often to Gua Sha? It is recommended to follow the practice of facial Gua Sha at least thrice a week to maintain results. You can choose to do it in the morning to reduce puffiness or at night, just before sleeping, to relax your facial muscles.
How often should you use a gua sha tool? ›Chen recommends doing five minutes of facial gua sha twice daily, or at least once a day, for the best results. Incorporating gua sha into your morning and/or evening skin care routines is an easy way to make it a consistent practice.