Like the Claw tool, the Leopard Paw is inspired by the ancient Chinese recovery technique of Gua Sha—known to modern trainers as Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM). The continuous treatment edge allows the user to safely and precisely “scrape” damaged muscle tissue, potentially improving blood flow and promoting faster healing.
While early Gua Sha treatments were conducted with horns or animal bones, the Leopard Paw provides a much more effective, modern design—made in the USA from medical grade stainless steel with treatment benefits on all edges and two different finish options to choose from:
- Laser-Engraved Spots: Best for everyday self-use.
- Raised Spots: Best for practitioners or anyone who prefers a little extra grip.
With both versions, the non-spotted side of the tool features the words: “The Ready State.”
No matter which area of the body you’re treating, MobilityWOD recommends using an emollient on the skin to provide a smooth glide for the tool. A water-soluble product can help neutralize your skin’s pH by preventing bacterial growth. This also helps promote healthy skin and minimizes clean-up when you are done scraping.
Important: During a treatment session, it is recommended that athletes discontinue the use of the Leopard Paw on a targeted area once they see the appearance of the little red spots called petechiae. There is no need to cause visual bruising because that will require the body to clear the damaged tissue.