Scraping (a manipulative and body-based practice), also called gua sha, involves rubbing a dull implement across lubricated (oiled or wet) skin, usually on the back, neck, or extremities. Scraping is popular in athletics, particularly weight lifting. Scraping is believed to increase blood flow to an area and enhance metabolism and healing (1). Depending on the tool used, scraping may also be called coining or spooning.
These therapies have been studied in musculoskeletal disorders, headaches, and perimenopausal symptoms (2, 3).
Scraping can cause ecchymoses.
(See also Overview of Integrative, Complementary, and Alternative Medicine.)
References
1. Xu QY, Yang JS, Yang L, et al: Effects of different scraping techniques on body surface blood perfusion volume and local skin temperature of healthy subjects. J Tradit Chin Med 31(4):316-20, 2011. doi:10.1016/s0254-6272(12)60011-9
2. Yuan QL, Guo TM, Liu L, Sun F, Zhang YG: Traditional Chinese medicine for neck pain and low back pain: a systematic review and meta-analysis. PLoS One 10(2):e0117146, 2015. Published 2015 Feb 24. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0117146
3. Ren Q, Yu X, Liao F, et al: Effects of gua sha therapy on perimenopausal syndrome: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Complement Ther Clin Pract 31:268-277, 2018. doi: 10.1016/j.ctcp.2018.03.012
