GUA-SHA THERAPY
Gua-Sha is an ancient therapeutic technique rooted in East Asian medicine, practiced for thousands of years. Originally, hollowed animal horns were used for treatment, but today, materials like jade, quartz, and glass are common.
In Gua-Sha, a trained professional uses a smooth-edged tool to press and stroke the skin in a single direction, enhancing circulation and relieving tension. It can be applied to various parts of the body, including the back, chest, and face. Modern tools vary in shape and material, with some designed specifically for facial use, like jade rollers and sculpted stones.
How Does Gua-Sha Work? Gua-Sha involves using a smooth-edged tool to apply firm, steady strokes to the skin. This technique is believed to release muscle tension, improve circulation, and support the body's natural healing processes. The "pain-gate" theory suggests that Gua-Sha stimulates nerve fibres, potentially blocking pain signals to the brain. Additionally, the pressure applied during the treatment may reduce inflammation and enhance the immune response. Post-treatment, temporary redness (erythema) and small red spots (petechiae) may appear, indicating increased blood flow and the release of toxins. These marks typically fade within 7-14 days. Gua-Sha is also used in cosmetic treatments to boost skin elasticity, stimulate collagen production, and improve microcirculation. In medical practice, similar techniques, like the Graston technique, are employed by physical therapists to treat muscle tightness and scar tissue.
What Can Gua-Sha Treat?
Gua-Sha is a versatile therapy that addresses various health concerns by promoting physical healing and emotional well-being. It is commonly used for:
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Pain Relief: Effective for muscle tension, strains, sprains, back, neck, shoulder, and joint pain.
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Inflammatory Conditions: Helps manage arthritis, fibromyalgia, and gout.
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Respiratory Issues: Supports treatment of asthma, bronchitis, and other respiratory conditions.
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Skin Conditions: Aids in treating acne, eczema, and other skin concerns.
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Nervous System Disorders: Assists with carpal tunnel, sciatica, and neuropathy.
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Digestive Problems: Provides relief for IBS and other digestive disorders.
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Headaches and Migraines: Reduces frequency and severity.
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Hypertension: May help in lowering blood pressure.
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Reproductive Health: Supports fertility and alleviates gynaecological issues.
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Mental Health: Can alleviate anxiety and depression.
Cosmetic Gua-Sha
Cosmetic Gua-Sha offers benefits for skin and aesthetic concerns:
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Fine Lines and Wrinkles: Stimulates collagen production for smoother skin.
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Sagging Skin: Firms and tightens areas like the jawline and cheeks.
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Acne and Scarring: Reduces inflammation and promotes healing.
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Puffiness and Dark Circles: Improves circulation and reduces fluid retention.
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Cellulite Reduction: Enhances circulation and helps break down fat.
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Scar and Stretch Mark Reduction: Promotes healing and reduces visibility.
While Gua-Sha is widely used for these conditions, results can vary, and scientific evidence is still evolving. However, many find it beneficial for their specific health needs.
How Effective is Gua-Sha and Cosmetic Gua-Sha? Gua-Sha and cosmetic Gua-Sha have gained attention for their potential health and skincare benefits, but scientific evidence is limited and often inconclusive. Some studies show temporary relief with chronic pain, neck pain, and osteoarthritis but long-term effects need more research. Some evidence suggests benefits for conditions like hepatitis B and migraines, but more rigorous studies are necessary. Studies have shown conclusively that Gua-Sha might alleviate breast fullness and pain in breastfeeding mothers, improving comfort and ease of nursing. Studies have also shown that Cosmetic Gua-Sha may enhance circulation, reduce puffiness, and promote collagen production, leading to brighter, firmer skin. The results are often short-lived, requiring regular practice for sustained benefits. While Gua-Sha is generally safe with minor side effects, it should be used as a complementary therapy alongside conventional treatments. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting Gua-Sha, especially if you have existing medical conditions.
How Long Do the Effects Last? The effects of Gua-Sha therapy vary depending on individual health conditions. Some may experience immediate relief after one session, while others might need multiple treatments for lasting results. For ongoing benefits, regular sessions are often recommended—typically every 6-8 weeks, or monthly for chronic conditions. Temporary skin redness, light bruising, or petechiae may occur post-treatment, usually fading within 7-21 days. The relief from symptoms like pain or muscle tension can be immediate, but results are generally subtle and not permanent, requiring consistent maintenance. Cosmetic Gua-Sha: Duration of Effects Cosmetic Gua-Sha can provide both immediate and long-lasting results. After a single session, you might notice brighter skin, reduced puffiness, and a more sculpted jawline. These effects can last a few hours, while improvements in skin texture and tone develop over the following days as any redness or swelling subsides. With regular practice, long-term benefits include enhanced collagen production, softer wrinkles, and a more lifted appearance. A typical treatment plan starts with 4-6 sessions spaced two weeks apart, then extends to four weeks apart. For sustained results, maintenance sessions every 6-8 weeks are recommended, along with a consistent skincare routine. Cosmetic Gua-Sha, being gentler, can be practiced more frequently, even daily. Temporary redness or minor bruising may occur, but these are part of the natural healing process. Results can vary, but many see significant improvements with consistent use.
Does It Hurt? Gua-Sha should not be painful, though some mild to moderate discomfort is possible. Gua-Sha and similar treatments are generally well-tolerated, but you may experience mild to moderate soreness, scratching or tingling feeling as the skin is scraped. Some individuals might also feel warmth or heat, particularly over bony areas. Pain levels can vary depending on your sensitivity and pain threshold. For most, the experience is similar to a deep tissue massage—slightly uncomfortable but often described as a "good sore." In cosmetic Gua-Sha, the procedures are designed to be as comfortable as possible, with minimal petechiae and tenderness as facial Gua-Sha is always performed with less pressure. Post-Treatment Sensitivity After treatment, the skin may feel tender, similar to a mild sunburn, with possible redness and swelling that usually subsides within a few days. Gua-Sha often leaves strong red marks on the skin, ranging from light pink to dark purple, which typically fade within 1-21 days, this is called petechiae (small red spots), these may have mild to moderate discomfort within the first 12-24 hours. If you have any concerns, especially if you plan to wear open-backed clothing, discuss them with your practitioner before treatment. Gua sha should only be performed by a licensed acupuncturist or practitioner of Chinese medicine
Is Gua-Sha Safe? Gua-Sha is generally safe when performed by a trained professional. However, Gua-Sha therapy is in an industry that is unregulated, and the level of training among practitioners can vary significantly. Unfortunately, some individuals are certified after completing short in-person or online courses with minimal practical training, such as a 1hour YouTube videos. These courses often provide only a superficial understanding of the treatment, anatomy and physiology and the precautions necessary for safe practice. When choosing a professional, it's important to ask about their qualifications. Inquire about where they trained, the level of their certification, the provider of their training, and the duration of their education. Ideally any cupping treatment should be a minimum of diploma level 2 with in-person teaching rather than purely online training. Keep in mind that the quality of practitioners varies. Not every practitioner with minimal training is unsafe, just as not every highly qualified practitioner is effective. The experience and skills of therapists can differ greatly based on their education and who trained them. In the UK, complementary, holistic, and beauty industries, including cosmetic treatments remain unregulated. This lack of regulation extends to the insurance companies that cover these practices, which can make treatments risky in some cases. However, the beauty industry is hopefully becoming more regulated in the future. While special certification isn’t always required, it's essential to choose a licensed and experienced professional. Avoid attempting Gua-Sha therapy at home. Without proper training, there's a risk of injury or complications. The most common side effects include temporary redness, bruising, and mild discomfort at the treatment site, which typically resolve within a few days. Gua-Sha can be offered by massage therapists, acupuncturists, physical therapists, chiropractors, and doctors. Potential Risks: Infection: To minimize the risk, ensure that your practitioner uses sterile equipment or disposable Gua-Sha tools. Bloodborne Diseases: There’s a risk of transmission if equipment is not properly sterilized between patients. Skin Reactions: Avoid Gua-Sha if your skin is scraped, oozing, or infected. Cosmetic Gua-Sha: When done by qualified professionals, cosmetic Gua-Sha is safe and effective. The most common side effects include temporary redness, bruising, and mild discomfort, which usually subside within a few days. Rare complications, like changes in skin pigmentation or scarring, can occur if the procedure isn't performed correctly. Follow post-procedure care instructions closely to support healing and achieve the best results. Some will use Jade Rollers and facial Gua-Sha at home as part of their skin care routine, these can be beneficial but may aggravate skin conditions and create infections. If you do intend to use this at home, ensure you clean your roller or stone with mild soap after every use and look for materials that are durable and will not chip and replace any broken tools to prevent skin damage.
What are the contraindications. reasons I can’t have treatment?
Is generally safe when performed by trained professionals. However, there are conditions that may not be suitable or need adaptions such as:
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For cosmetic guasha only: recent skin fillers, Botox or other injectables into the treatment area.
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Currently menstruating.
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Active cancer or undergoing oncology treatments.
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Low blood pressure.
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Severe uncontrolled hypertension
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Uncontrolled Epileptic and Seizure disorders.
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Organ failure or recent organ donation.
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Pacemaker fitted or history of cardiovascular disease.
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Insulin-Dependent Diabetes.
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Pregnancy or recent Childbirth.
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a history of Haemorrhage or bleeding and clotting disorders.
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Recent DVT, Embolism or thrombosis still requiring medication.
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taking blood thinning, anticoagulant or clotting medication.
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Active severe bruising, cuts or abrasions
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Recent surgeries, procedures, injections, fractures or sprains.
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Keloid tendency.
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Moles, freckles, skin tags or other growths that change in size, shape or bleed
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Uncontrolled or undiagnosed Skin Disorders such as: Psoriasis, Eczema, Dermatitis, Acne Vulgaris, Vitiligo, Rosacea, Chloasma.
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Infectious skin diseases, such as: impetigo, shingles, Herpes Simplex, Ringworm, Scabies, Conjunctivitis, MRSA, Warts, Verrucae’s.
It is always important to consult with a qualified practitioner to determine if Guasha is appropriate for your specific needs.
How to Prepare for your Appointment. Preparing for an appointment involves a few simple steps to ensure you get the most out of the treatment: Medications & Supplements:- Try to avoid taking Vitamin C, Vitamin A, NSAIDs and Aspirin or Blood thinning medications for at least 5 days prior to the appointment where possible. Skin Care:- Try to avoid using any Retinol, exfoliants, AHA acids, BHA acids, Vitamin C, or Vitamin A products on the treatment area for several days prior to the appointment. For Cosmetic Gua-Sha please - Cleanse your skin thoroughly twice a day for 48 hours prior to the appointment. Remove all make up within 30 minutes of the appointment and ensure your face has been cleaned. Please don’t forget to apply any numbing agents if provided 1 hour prior to the appointment as advised. Stimulants:- Try to avoid Caffeine, Alcohol, or Nicotine for 12 hours before your session, as these can affect your body's response to the treatment. Fluids:- Drink plenty of water and try to stay hydrated, before your appointment. Being well-hydrated can help your body respond better to the treatment. Diet:- have a small, balanced meal or substantial meal about 1-2 hours before your appointment. This helps maintain your energy levels during the session. Avoid arriving with an empty stomach, as this can lead to dizziness or light-headedness. Attire:- Wear loose, comfortable or easily removable clothing that can be rolled up or removed to access treatment areas like your face, head, shoulders, neck, arms, entire legs, back or abdomen. Please tie up long hair or bring along a hairband to do so for access to the face, ear and neck vicinity. Punctuality:- please arrive on time, giving yourself enough time to arrive at your appointment without rushing will help you to reax. Please try not too early though as the clinic does NOT have any waiting area and space in the car park is limited. Consultation:- be prepared to discuss your health, medical history, current symptoms, medications, and any concerns you have with your practitioner. This information helps tailor the treatment to your specific needs. Please don’t forget to bring with you a full list of medications, medical conditions, any skin care routines or products used regularly, and any reading glasses required. Mindset:- Approach the session with an open mind and a calm attitude. Treatments works best when you're relaxed, so try to clear your mind and focus on your breathing during the treatment. Following these tips can help you be more prepared for your appointment aiding you to have a more positive, effective and relaxing treatment.
What to Expect During Treatment. Before starting your treatment, you'll need to sign a consent form, acknowledging that you understand the procedure and its potential outcomes. This form confirms that you are aware the treatment may involve direct skin contact and that multiple sessions might be necessary to achieve the best results. It also clarifies that while the treatment aims for improvement, individual results may vary, and some cosmetic concerns may not be fully resolved. Your treatment begins with a brief consultation, typically lasting 10-20 minutes. During this time, your practitioner will assess your health, lifestyle, and specific concerns. This may include an examination of relevant areas and a review of your health history. The procedure will be explained in detail, including potential risks and complications. You'll have the opportunity to ask questions and discuss any concerns. It's important to note that while the cosmetic treatment aims to enhance your health or appearance, no guarantees are made regarding the outcome. Your practitioner will help set realistic expectations and may recommend additional sessions for optimal results. The Treatment Process: at the start of the treatment, you will lie down in a relaxed position, every effort will be made to make you comfortable, and any necessary clothing removal will be minimal and respectful. The practitioner will begin the treatment by sterilising the skin area and, if needed, apply a topical anaesthetic to minimize any discomfort. Once the area is prepared, the practitioner may apply products such as Hyaluronic Acid, or oils like Tiger balm, Dit Jow Jow, Coconut or Aloe Vera, depending on your consultation. This will help the tool to glide more easily, this may need to be applied more than once during the process. The practitioner will hold the tool touching your skin at a 35–45-degree angle; using a light to medium pressure with even upward and outward motions they will scrape repeatedly at the area from the inside to the outer edges. As the session goes on, the practitioner may slowly add more pressure to the strokes if you feel comfortable with this. During the procedure, you may experience various sensations, including warmth, tingling, tightness or a sense of movement. These sensations are normal, but if you feel discomfort or pain, please inform the practitioner. Throughout the session, you're welcome to rest quietly or engage in conversation—whichever makes you feel most comfortable. To enhance the treatment's effectiveness, the practitioner may also incorporate additional techniques such as massage, cupping, acupuncture, electromagnetic energy impulses, or other heat-based therapies. Any adjunctive therapies will be discussed and agreed upon with you before the treatment begins. Cosmetic Gua-Sha Techniques: Cosmetic Gua-Sha uses jade tools in specialized techniques to achieve desired results. On the face, the process is much slower and gentler. The tool will be moved smoothly in one direction, avoiding vigorous back-and-forth motions that can irritate the skin. The aim is for slight redness without causing discomfort, applying only as much pressure as feels comfortable. After Cosmetic Gua-Sha, cooling elements may be applied, followed by soothing serums or moisturizers to aid healing and support collagen production. After any Gua-Sha treatment, take your time getting up, as you may feel lightheaded or dizzy. It’s important to reorient yourself gradually before stepping of the treatment couch. At the end of the appointment the practitioner may offer aftercare advice, before taking payment and arranging any further appointments.
What are the after-effects of Treatment? While generally a safe treatment for all age groups and the majority of people when administered by a qualified, insured, registered and experienced practitioner, treatments can still have after-effects. These effects are typically mild and temporary, but it's important to be aware of them. Common After-effects: Skin reactions:- there may be possible skin marking, reddening, Petechiae, rashes, darker patches, altered skin pigmentation, Lymphatic leakage, skin sensitivity, tightness, itching or altered skin sensation from the local vicinity of the treatment site that may persist for up to 14 days post treatment, taking up to 21 days to fully subside or disappear. During this time the skin may also be tender or sore and can have an elevated risk of infection, Keloid scarring or an increased susceptibility of Sunburns. Bruising:- where possible treatment is designed to minimize bruising but these can still occur. Occasionally, bleeding, swelling, bumps, inflammation or small bruises can appear at the treatment site. These are usually harmless and will fade within a few days but can sometimes be more severe in some people especially with anticoagulant usage or disposition to bleeding. In this event any of these occurring the use of a topical arnica lotion will help. Muscular Discomfort:- for some, it is very common to experience mild soreness, aching, tenderness or localized pain at the treatment site or in the body following a treatment. This may be similar to how a person feels after a hard day’s work or workout at a gym but can be more extreme as the body is trying to regulate following the treatment. This usually resolves within the 24-48 hours but may persist for 7-10 days. BP & Blood Glucose fluctuations:- patients often experience a lowering of their blood pressure, heart rates and blood glucose levels following treatments – this can leave people feeling slightly woozy, nauseous, light-headedness, or dizzy and may persist for a few hours following treatment, plenty of clear fluids and a light sugary snack will help with this. Energy & Fatigue:- It's not uncommon to feel tired or fatigued following a session. This is typically a sign that your body is responding to the treatment and beginning the healing process. Conversely, some people may feel a surge of energy following their session, which can last for several hours or even days. Short flu-like symptoms:- as the body rebalances itself it enters a detoxification period which can leave people experiencing 24-48 hours of flu-like symptoms – enlarged tender glands, achy bodies, Headaches, Sinus congestion, energy and temperature fluctuations, these are a good sign of your body responding to treatment. Its best to allow your body to rest during this timeframe and keep hydrated. Temporary Symptom Exacerbation:- In some cases, a person’s pre-existing medical conditions or symptoms may briefly worsen or flare before they improve. This is often seen as a sign that the treatment is taking effect and may require further treatment or adjusts to treatment to resolve. Digestion:- many do find treatment aids in their digestive systems, reducing bloating and aiding with appetite but can report issues with Nausea, Heartburn, passing wind more or changes in their usual toilet habits finding the consistency and frequency are often improved or altered, this can include having looser more often bowel movements that should subside within 48 hours. Sleep:- Many individuals find that their sleep improves after treatment, either by falling asleep more easily or experiencing deeper, more restful sleep. Equally, some people find following treatment their sleep is altered and more difficult, they often report changes in their dream patterns which can be more vivid and negative. Emotional Release:- Some people report an emotional release during or after treatment, which can manifest as unexpected feelings of sadness, tearfulness, despair, grief, anger, frustration, irritability, happiness, joy, mania, boredom or relief. This is a normal response to the body's energy balancing and the therapeutic aspects of touch especially where repressed emotions have been the source of disharmony in a person’s health. Most aftereffects of treatment are mild and resolve within a few days to weeks especially when following the aftercare. Although safe, sometimes more serious complications or after-effects can occur with this treatment. Rare But Serious Side-Effects - Severe Skin Reactions:- Persistent discoloration or altered pigmentation. Temporary or Permanent marking, Scarring or disfigurement. Keloid Scarring. Scalds. Burns. Infections such as Sepsis and Cellulitis can occur. Internal Complications:- Risks of serious complications such as: Movement of Blood Clots. Thrombosis. Embolism. Strokes. Haemorrhage. Kidney damage. Liver damage. Muscle, Nerve, or Tendon damage. Significant Allergic reaction such as Anaphylaxis. Neuro-physical reaction:- Fainting, Dizziness, Syncope, Shock, Hypoglycaemia, Severe Hypotensive Crisis, Tachycardia or alteration in body temperature. Please contact your practitioner or Healthcare provider as soon as possible if you experience any unusual or severe reactions especially within 12 hours post treatment or your symptoms are not showing signs of improvement 48 hours after the treatment.
Aftercare and Recovery
Following treatment, due to the delicate nature of the vasculature, particularly around the face, your skin can have visible bruising, redness, swelling or feel warm, sore or tight. These effects may last from 5 to 14 days, and some individuals may also experience fatigue and tenderness. To support your recovery and optimize the results of your treatment, please adhere to the following guidelines:
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Apply an ice pack or a cooling aloe vera gel to the area for the first 24-48 hours.
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Skin care: for facial treatments Avoid wearing makeup for the first 24 hours post-treatment and cleanse your skin daily using a water-based moisturizer to reduce redness.
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Products: for facial treatment Apply daily sunblock with SPF 20 or higher daily for 14 days to prevent post-operative hyperpigmentation and maximise the skin outcome. Consider applying vitamin A or C serums daily for 30 days after treatment and avoid any harsh skincare products for 30 days post-treatment
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Environment: Avoid hot baths, showers, saunas, sunbeds, or sunbathing for 24 hours after treatment to prevent skin damage. it’s vital to avoid direct sun exposure, or intensive sunlight exposure from solariums for 2 weeks or until the skin is fully healed.
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Additional Treatments: Refrain from undergoing any other treatments for 48 hours to prevent potential interactions.
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Hydration: Increase your water intake over the next 7 days to support detoxification. Herbal teas and fruit juices are also beneficial.
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Caffeine and Alcohol: Reduce caffeine intake and avoid alcohol, energy drinks, and recreational drugs for 24 hours post-treatment and 12 hours prior.
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Smoking and Vaping: Minimize or avoid smoking, vaping, and all nicotine products for 48 hours.
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Activity Level: Avoid strenuous activities, heavy exercise, or long drives for 24 hours to allow your body to rest and recuperate.
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Wellness: Try to reduce stress, maybe try light exercise, going for a walk, breathing or mediation to help.
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Follow-Up Care: Adhere to any specific aftercare instructions provided by your practitioner.
By following these guidelines, you can help ensure a smooth recovery and achieve the best possible results from your treatment.
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