Lesson 4: Pediatric Gua Sha for Immunity, Allergies, Cough & Colds (Ages 5 & Up)

Pediatric Gua Sha, also known as Scraping Massage is one of my favorite techniques to use for kids ages 5 and up.

Kids love this technique because it feels so good. It’s great for treating allergies, flu, coughs, colds and fever and most kids respond really quickly, especially when used in addition to regular pediatric acupuncture treatments.

What is Gua Sha, or Scraping Massage?

Don’t be afraid of the name, scraping massage feels really good! Most kids love it and once they know what it is, many come into my office asking for their gua sha treatment! I like to teach parents because it’s so effective, easy, and fun to do.

Gua sha is a type of massage done by using a special tool on specific areas of the body to increase blood flow and stimulate as well as regulate the immune system.*

Here is What You Will Need To Do This Technique:

1. Oil:  In younger children, I use almond, coconut, or jojoba oils. In older kids, I often use a special Chinese oil called Po Som On that has peppermint, cinnamon, and other essential oils infused into it.

2. Gua Sha Tool: This is an easy to hold jade tool that you can find online or in your local acupuncturist office. You can see what it looks like in the pictures below and in the video, too.  You can buy a top-quality Gua Sha tool like the one in the photos by clicking here.

Gua Sha or Scraping Massage Is Easy and Fun and it Feels Good- Here’s How To Do it:

• First, put a layer of oil on your kid’s upper back focusing on the area on both sides of the spine between the spine and the shoulder blade
• Using a firm, but gentle pressure, rub the edge of the gua aha tool down the fleshy area on one side of the spine until it starts to turn light pink
• Then move to the other side of the spine and repeat
• You can go back and forth between the two sides until the skin there is pink
• Remember, this should feel good!

Here are Some Extra Tips for Success:

• Use a firm but gentle pressure

• Be sure to check in often with your child to see how the pressure is

• Watch body language – if they squirm the pressure is probably too hard

• Change sides periodically so one side doesn’t get sore

• Aim for turning the skin pink on white skin or darker color on dark skin

With a little practice, you'll be a pro before you know it.  This technique can also be used on adults with upper respiratory conditions and tight neck and shoulder muscles.