PHYSIOLOGICAL EFFECTS OF THE GUA SHA MASSAGE: SCIENTIFIC REVIEW

Abstract

Objective:
The objective of the review article is to summarize and systematize available scientific data on the physiological effects of Gua Sha massage as well as to formulate a hypothesis regarding the systemic effect it has on the body.
Data sources:
The data was taken from research articles published in Russian and English from 2004 to 2024. The sources included 33 randomized clinical trials, three comparative studies, seven scientific reviews, two systematic reviews, three clinical cases, and one dissertation for a doctorate in Pedagogical Sciences (specialty: physical education, sports training, recreational education, and adaptive physical education theory and methodology).
Study selection:
The authors reviewed 120 sources published over the last 50 years and available in the Scopus, Medline, and Elibrary bibliographic databases using the search terms “gua sha” and “Gua Sha”. The 49 most relevant publications, books authored by competent Gua Sha practitioners and research articles in peer-reviewed scientific journals, were selected for analysis.
Results:
An analysis of the literature brought to light that there are a multitude of physiological effects that Gua Sha massage provides, including immunostimulatory, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, hepatoprotective, reflex, and microcirculatory effects. A hypothesis was formulated on the integral mechanism of the gua sha massage: catalyzation of blood circulation during massage activates metabolic processes in the tissues, enhances lymphatic formation as well as lymphatic outflow, and stimulates detoxification processes, which combine to produce a regenerating, rejuvenating effect on the body.
Conclusions:
A more accurate scientific substantiation of this technique calls for further clinical research, as not all studies support the effectiveness of Gua Sha massage, and the mechanism of the effect it has on the body is not fully understood. The method must be exercised with caution, as cases have been recorded in which the trauma procedure has resulted in developing complications.