Services
Gua Sha
Release Muscle Tension and Inflammation with Traditional Scraping Therapy
Gua Sha is a time-honored therapy that uses scraping motions across the skin to relieve pain, increase circulation, and reduce inflammation. At Ascending Dragon Acupuncture, we use Gua Sha to support patients dealing with tight muscles, stress, and chronic tension.
What Is Gua Sha?
Gua Sha involves using a smooth-edged tool (often jade or stone) to scrape the skin in rhythmic strokes. This motion increases blood flow, clears heat and stagnation, and releases tight fascia and muscles beneath the surface.
Although temporary redness or marks may appear, the treatment is not painful — most patients describe it as relieving and energizing.
Conditions Treated
Gua Sha is commonly used for musculoskeletal, respiratory, and stress-related issues, such as:
Neck, shoulder, and upper back tension
Headaches and migraines
Muscle pain or stiffness
TMJ or jaw tension
Colds and coughs (especially in early stages)
Fatigue and body aches
Stress-related tension patterns
Benefits of Gua Sha
Gua Sha encourages your body to reset and repair itself. Benefits include:
Loosens tight muscles and fascia
Stimulates circulation and lymph flow
Reduces inflammation and swelling
Relieves headaches and pain
Encourages immune response during illness
Promotes a calm, restored feeling afterward
Your First Visit
Based on your evaluation, Dr. Mary will create a customized treatment plan tailored specifically to your needs. This plan may include acupuncture, herbal remedies, supplements, cupping, moxibustion, electro-acupuncture, Gua Sha, and personalized lifestyle recommendations — or a combination of therapies — to support the most effective and lasting results.
What to Expect During Treatment
Treatment sessions are 90 minutes for initial visits and 60 minutes for follow-up treatments. Each therapy is delivered with attention, intention, and your comfort in mind. You may experience a sense of deep relaxation, warmth, tingling, or light pressure — all common signs that your body is responding.
As part of a holistic approach, multiple techniques may be combined in a single session to support your healing from every angle.
Safety and Comfort
Your well-being is our top priority. Dr. Manning uses only single-use, sterile needles and the highest standards of hygiene across all treatments. Whether you’re receiving bodywork, herbal guidance, or acupuncture, you can trust that every session is conducted in a calm, professional, and supportive environment designed to help you feel safe and cared for.
Visit Us or Let Us Come to You
Our clinic is located at Civic Center Station in Pleasanton, CA, and we proudly offer mobile acupuncture services throughout Alameda County, including Alameda, Dublin, Livermore, Castro Valley, San Leandro, and surrounding areas.
Ready to Start Your Healing Journey?
Whether you’re managing pain, recovering from stress, or building long-term wellness — we’re here to help. Book your appointment today and take the next step toward feeling your best.
