Gua sha is a traditional Chinese healing method that involves using a smooth-edged tool to stroke the skin while pressing on it. This motion raises small, red, rash-like dots that show under the skin called petechiae. People use gua sha to treat chronic pain all over their body, often alongside other complementary treatments like herbal medicine, massage, acupuncture, and heat therapy. Gua sha is believed to help blood flow and create a “lifting” effect on the skin, which some say may help lessen toxins in the body and promote healing. Gua sha is generally performed on a person’s back, buttocks, neck, arms, and legs, and a gentle version of it is even used on the face as a facial technique. Some potential benefits of gua sha include relieving muscle pain, reducing inflammation, and promoting circulation. However, more research is needed to fully understand its benefits.