Break through chronic tension and restriction with Graston Technique and Gua Sha at TouchPoint Bodywork. Two effective methods to relieve pain, restore motion, and accelerate healing.
✓ Breaks Down Scar Tissue and Adhesions
✓ Supports Circulation, Healing, and Detox
What Are Graston and Gua Sha?
At TouchPoint Bodywork, two specialized forms of Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM) are offered: Graston Technique and Gua Sha. Both use smooth tools to reduce muscle tension, break down scar tissue, and restore movement—but their origins, tools, and techniques differ.
What’s the Difference Between Graston and Gua Sha?
Graston and Gua Sha are both forms of Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM), but they differ in origin, intent, and technique. Graston comes from Western sports medicine and uses stainless steel tools with structured, deeper pressure to address scar tissue and adhesions. Gua Sha originates from Traditional Chinese Medicine, using smooth jade, quartz, or wood tools in gentle strokes along meridians to promote circulation and energy flow. Graston is clinical and targeted; Gua Sha is holistic and restorative—each effective when applied with care.
personalized service
What to Expect During Your Graston or Gua Sha Session with TouchPoint Bodywork
Each session begins with a thorough assessment to understand your goals, areas of tension, and any health considerations. Based on your needs, I’ll choose the appropriate technique—Graston or Gua Sha—or may blend elements of both.
A small amount of emollient is applied to the skin to reduce friction. The selected tool is then gently glided or stroked over specific muscle groups or fascial lines. You may feel some sensitivity in areas where there are adhesions or tissue restrictions; this is a normal and a temporary response.
After treatment, it’s common to see some redness or temporary markings on the skin. With Gua Sha, these may appear as tiny red or purple specks known as “sha”—evidence of stagnant blood and metabolic waste being drawn to the surface. These marks are not bruises but signs of increased circulation and detoxification, typically fading within 1–5 days. Graston Technique, which engages deeper layers of soft tissue, may produce mild redness, swelling, or occasional bruising as part of the healing process. This response helps break down scar tissue and stimulate new collagen formation.
I’ll always monitor your comfort, adjust pressure as needed, and provide aftercare guidance to ensure a safe, effective, and personalized experience.
Benefits of Graston & Gua Sha Therapy
✵
Reduces Chronic Muscle Tension
Both techniques work to release tight, knotted muscles by loosening connective tissue and reducing myofascial restrictions that standard massage may not reach.
✵
Breaks Down Scar Tissue and Adhesions
The tools help break up old scar tissue and fibrotic buildup, improving tissue quality and allowing smoother, pain-free movement over time.
✵
Supports Circulation, Healing, and Detox
By stimulating blood and lymphatic flow, these techniques help decrease inflammation, flush out metabolic waste, and speed up recovery from injury or repetitive stress.
What TouchPoint Bodywork customers are saying
Over
100+
5 star reviews and growing
★★★★★
If you’re dealing with tech neck, shoulder pain, post-op soreness, or just need a professional massage therapist who really listens and delivers results, I highly recommend Kimberly.
Jordan B.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can you treat with Graston and Gua Sha?
Graston and Gua Sha are helpful for a range of conditions including chronic muscle tension, scar tissue, tendinitis, plantar fasciitis, carpal tunnel syndrome, neck and back pain, IT band tightness, and limited mobility. They’re also used to reduce inflammation, promote healing, and improve overall tissue quality and range of motion.
How painful is the Graston Technique?
Graston may feel intense in areas of restriction, but most clients describe it as “relieving discomfort.” Mild soreness may occur afterward, but it typically subsides within a day or two.
What does Graston scraping do?
Graston scraping breaks up fascial adhesions and scar tissue using controlled pressure. This process stimulates blood flow, promotes collagen production, and supports tissue regeneration.
How often should you do Graston?
Frequency depends on individual needs. For injury recovery or chronic issues, sessions may start weekly. As progress is made, spacing out treatments every few weeks is common. Your therapist will recommend a schedule based on how your body responds.
Book Now, Feel Better Sooner
Schedule your therapy massage session in Centennial, CO and start feeling the benefits.