Many pain-relieving techniques have been practiced by mankind since ancient times. These practices also evolved according to contemporary needs and relevance. One such technique is muscle scraping. This pain-relieving technique traces its roots to ancient Chinese medicine.
People across the globe still practice muscle scraping due to its effectiveness in reducing muscular pain. However, the benefits of this practice are not only restricted to chronic pain relief but also to many other aspects like improving blood circulation, and quicker healing.
So, how is muscle scraping done?
Table of Contents
1. Understanding Muscle Scraping
Muscle scraping, according to Icy Health, is known as Guasha in China and Southeast Asia. It is believed to have originated during the Ming Dynasty of China.
In earlier days substances like animal horns were used to perform muscle scraping. The jade stone was another widely used muscle-scraping tool. Using these tools the practitioner scraps the muscle of patients in one direction. Oil is used for lubrication.
The whole process is believed to improve blood circulation in the scraped area. Today modern tools made up of plastic are used for muscle scraping. It is usually performed to reduce muscle pain and treat injuries.
Nowadays, the most widely used tool for muscle scraping is the sidekick. You can buy it online or from nearby shops and it comes in many shapes and sizes.
2. Top Five Benefits of Using Muscle Scraping for Pain Relief
1. Reduce Pain
Muscle scraping is generally performed to reduce the pain. It is known to reduce chronic back pain.
The muscle scraping is done after work-out to reduce muscular pain.
2. Treat Injuries
Muscle scraping is done to treat soft tissue injuries. It promotes healing and ensures pain relief during the process.
3. Improved Muscle Performance
The muscle scraping aids in improving muscle performance, especially in the case of weight lifting.
The muscle scraping technique also enhances the range of motions you can perform.
4. Enhances Blood Circulation
One of the key benefits of the muscle scraping technique is that it improves blood circulation in the area.
5. Promotes Better Endurance
This ancient technique enhances cardiovascular performance in general. It enhances heart rate variability and hence promotes better endurance while the heart is underperforming.
3. Things to Keep in Mind Before Practicing Muscle Scraping
Muscle scraping is not suitable for everyone. If you are having severe injuries, pregnancy, high blood pressure, kidney disorders, etc, it is recommended to avoid resorting to muscle scraping.
Muscle scraping can be performed by yourself or by an experienced therapist. It is advisable to consult a professional physiotherapist before starting the muscle scraping therapy.
4. Final Thoughts on Muscle Scraping Therapy
In this blog post, we discussed the muscle scraping technique, its origin, the scraping tools, and its benefits.
This time-tested technique is beneficial for improving muscle performance and it also supports the healing process. But, it is also advisable to check whether you are suitable to undergo muscle scraping before starting the muscle scraping therapy.