What is Gua Sha?

Experience the benefits of a technique that originates from Traditional Chinese Medicine and supports your body's natural healing

Experience the Healing Power of Gua Sha

Offered by our Registered Massage Therapists, Gua Sha is a traditional therapeutic technique that comes from Traditional Chinese Medicine.
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Historically, it was used to address a wide range of ailments by stimulating circulation and releasing stagnant energy, or "qi," believed to be the source of pain and imbalance in the body. You might know it by its western incarnation of " muscle scraping " or IASTM.

The technique involves using a smooth-edged tool ( usually made of stone) to stroke/scape the skin in specific areas, creating a controlled mechanical stimulus. This process promotes mechanotransduction, a physiological response where mechanical pressure signals the cells to trigger healing processes, including tissue repair, collagen production, and enhanced blood flow. By stimulating microcirculation and releasing myofascial adhesions, Gua Sha helps reduce pain, improve mobility, and support the body's natural healing.
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A woman receiving Gua Sha massage from Registered Massage Therapist Crystal Metham at Embark Physical Therapy & Wellness in Waterloo

How can
Gua Sha Help?

In modern Western bodywork , Gua Sha is recognized for its it's ability to help address the following:

Chronic pain and muscle tightness
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Fascial Restriction and adhesions
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Limited range of motion
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Stress and tension-related discomfort

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Gua Sha tools displayed on a table highlighting this service from Registered Massage Therapist Crystal Metham at Embark Physical Therapy & Wellness in Waterloo
“Highly recommend Erin for physiotherapy! She has treated a few injuries over the past 3 years and helped me manage chronic pain. I think she is professional, kind, caring, knowledgeable and always runs on time. The clinic space is lovely and it's so nice to be able to book appointments online. She has a brand new Shockwave machine that works great for foot/heel pain. So glad I found Erin for physio!”

- Kate M

"I’ve struggled with various pains and aches for a while and wanted yoga to be part of a holistic lifestyle improvement solution. Joining a big class felt a bit daunting so when I saw the sign about Emma's mobility yoga classes, I decided to try. Her calming presence and genuine care have been transformative. With her help, I've become more comfortable in my body, began to experience less pain, and started to develop the confidence to join group classes. I look forward to continuing this journey with her and highly recommend her to anyone seeking peace and healing through yoga"

- Nahla

"I had my first physio appointment with Ali Dings today. Embark office is so well located in uptown Waterloo and is a beautiful and calming space. Ali is very professional and was able to quickly identify and treat the problem with lots of great advice for exercises at home etc. I would highly recommend her service"

- EG

“Erin is a caring, knowledgeable and thoroughly capable physiotherapist. She is interested in the well being of all her patients and designs effective treatment plans that include in office physio as well as easy to follow exercises that can be performed at home. She is kind and welcoming and excellent at what she does.”

 - Doris A

“I went to Brittany for massage therapy on my wife's recommendation. As a first timer, she immediately put me at ease. She has a friendly personality and is easy to talk to and that made the experience absolutely comfortable. I was pleased with the results of her treatments as my back pain was diminished after a few sessions. I would recommend Brittany as a massage therapist."

- Octavio

“Brittany was my massage therapist for 3  years until I moved out of the area. With chronic back pain from scoliosis and arthritis, she was able to alleviate pain that prevented me from the active lifestyle I was used to. She displayed a tremendous amount of professionalism as a therapist. Before each session she asked if there were changes in my health and which areas I would like her to work on. Throughout the massage she made me feel comfortable by allowing me to choose whether we talked or not. Our conversations  were always appropriate and positive. She was always punctual and flexible in her scheduling. I would highly recommend Brittany for your massage therapy needs!"

- Janet

“I had my first massage in about 7 years and it was amazing!! Lindsay was very professional and asked all the questions to make sure I was getting a massage catered to my needs!! I carry all my tension and stress in my upper back and shoulders, I could feel relief almost immediately!!!"

- Melissa C

"I am currently seeing Lindsay L., who is a pro at deep tissue massage. She's so kind & makes me feel at ease while getting out all of the deep knots! She also has done cupping as an additional treatment on my 90 minute massages, which has been a huge relief for my back & keeps me coming back for more!

- Claire E

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