Consistent results

Obtaining consistent results with gua sha boils down to listening to your client and taking a thorough history of the the condition. When I choose to use gua sha I listen for key statements including the following (listed in order of importance) :

1) The condition has persisted for more than 4 weeks. Unless the inflammatory stage has been prolonged by other circumstances, one can assume that collagen tissues / scar / adhesions, are maturing and can tolerate gua sha. Avoid treating any inflammatory / recent injury.

2) The client complains of a tight feeling that restricts movement. Example: Thumb opposition is restricted after removal of a cast (distal radius fracture). The dorsal aspect of the thumb CMC, MP, and IP joints lack sufficient soft tissue elasticity. Gua sha increases blood flow to the skin increasing tissue temperature and elasticity. Once treated, the stiff joint(s) are placed on a pain-free stretch for between 1 and 5 minutes.

3) Myofascial pain. Identify the muscle, treat it, stretch it, strengthen the antagonist, correct postural habits, done!

If I had to pick one condition that responds best to gua sha I would pick shoulder impingement. Once the pecs and biceps have been treated and stretched, clients without significant rotator cuff tears demonstrate an immediate improvement in range of motion with decreased pain. More challenging patients require the levator and upper trap to be treated as well. Facilitating the deltoid with kinesiotape after treatment has also provided excellent carryover.
Thoughts, comments, personal experience anyone?