Muscle Indentations and Hardness After Gua Sha Treatment

Depression and hard lumps after gua sha on the calf muscles?

The coach discovered that the cause of the knee pain might be due to excessive tightness in the calf muscles.
During a scraping therapy similar to gua sha, 1.
there was a localized indentation in the midsection of the calf muscles.
What could be the reason for this, doctor? 2.
After gua sha, ice therapy was applied two hours later, and subsequently, the calf became congested and swollen to 1.5 times its normal size.
After 24 hours, heat therapy was initiated, and a large hard lump approximately 10 centimeters in size developed in the calf muscle.
It has not improved after two weeks.
What can be done to address this? Thank you, doctor, for your response!

Kai, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/04/22

Dr. Zhang Weidong reply Traditional Chinese Medicine

Hello, Kai.
The first question is difficult to answer without a physical examination to determine the cause.
Regarding your second question, swelling in the calf indicates that there may be a rupture in the internal blood vessels.
Normally, you would see bruising; if you don't see any, it may be that the bruising is deeper.
If the bruising does not fully resolve on its own, it can form the lump you mentioned.
In this case, applying heat and massage can help improve the condition.
If there is no improvement after these treatments, you might consider consulting a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner for acupuncture, which could also help address your issue.
Dr.
Chang Wei-Dong, Traditional Chinese Medicine Department, Changhua Hospital.

Reply Date: 2021/04/22

More Info

Understanding muscle indentations and hardness after Gua Sha treatment can be quite complex, as it involves various physiological responses to the treatment. Gua Sha is a traditional Chinese therapy that involves scraping the skin with a smooth-edged instrument to improve circulation, relieve muscle tension, and promote healing. However, it can also lead to some unintended side effects, particularly if not performed correctly or if the individual has underlying conditions.

1. Muscle Indentations: The indentations you observed in the mid-section of your calf muscles during the Gua Sha treatment could be attributed to several factors. One possibility is that the scraping action may have caused localized trauma to the muscle tissue, leading to temporary changes in the muscle's shape. This can occur if the pressure applied during the treatment is too intense or if the muscle is already in a state of tension or spasm. The indentations may also be a result of the muscle fibers being compressed and then relaxing, which can create a temporary visual effect. Additionally, if there is any underlying muscle tightness or fascial restrictions, the Gua Sha technique may exacerbate these conditions, leading to noticeable indentations.

2. Post-Treatment Symptoms: The swelling and hardness you experienced after the Gua Sha treatment are concerning. The initial ice application was a good choice to reduce inflammation and numb the area, but the subsequent swelling to 1.5 times the normal size indicates a significant inflammatory response. This could be due to microtrauma caused by the scraping, leading to localized edema. The development of a hard lump approximately 10 cm in size suggests that there may be a hematoma (a localized collection of blood outside of blood vessels) or a significant muscle spasm that has not resolved.

Given that these symptoms have persisted for two weeks without improvement, it is crucial to take appropriate steps to address the issue. Here are some recommendations:
- Consult a Healthcare Professional: It is essential to seek evaluation from a healthcare provider, such as a physical therapist or a physician specializing in sports medicine. They can assess the area for any underlying injuries, such as muscle tears or significant hematomas, and provide a tailored treatment plan.

- Continue Ice Therapy: In the initial stages of swelling, continue to apply ice to the affected area for 15-20 minutes every hour as needed. This can help reduce inflammation and pain.

- Gentle Stretching and Mobilization: Once the acute swelling has decreased, gentle stretching and mobilization of the calf muscles may help restore normal function and reduce tightness. However, avoid any aggressive techniques until cleared by a healthcare professional.

- Heat Therapy: After the initial inflammation has subsided, applying heat can help relax the muscles and improve blood flow to the area. This can be beneficial in promoting healing.

- Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can provide specific exercises to strengthen the calf muscles, improve flexibility, and address any underlying issues contributing to the tightness.

- Avoid Further Gua Sha: Until you have a clear understanding of the cause of your symptoms, it may be wise to avoid further Gua Sha treatments or any similar techniques that could exacerbate the condition.

In conclusion, while Gua Sha can be beneficial for muscle tension and pain relief, it is essential to approach it with caution, especially if you experience adverse effects. Persistent symptoms warrant professional evaluation to ensure proper management and recovery.

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