Thailand Massage Tragedy: Doctor Shares Safety Tips, Warnings After 2 People Lose Lives In 'Neck Twisting' Massages

While it is still not known whether the victims in Thailand had any underlying health conditions that could have caused their deaths, one of them mentioned in a Facebook post prior to her death that she had gone to the parlour for two sessions of a 'neck twist' massage, and another session of a massage with a 'heavy hand'.

DEATH BY MASSAGE? Two persons lost their lives recently, purportedly after undergoing massage therapy in Thailand. While their exact causes of death are yet to be ascertained, both the victims -- a 20-year-old Thai folk singer Chayada Prao-hom, and a tourist from Singapore named Lee Mun Tuk, 52 -- had gone to massage parlours in different parts of the country, after which their health started to deteriorate. Even though investigating authorities found the parlours and their masseuses have proper licences, Chayada died on December 8 after suffering from health complications after a series of 'neck twisting' massages in Udon Thani city. She had been experiencing shoulder pain and had even become paralytic. Lee, meanwhile, died after a 45-minute oil massage on Patong beach. He had reportedly 'fallen asleep' during the session, only to show 'symptoms of distress' later.

What Could Have Caused These Deaths? Are They Related To Massages?

As mentioned earlier, Chayada had reportedly taken a series of 'neck twisting' massages, and had even been updating her fans and followers on Facebook about her deteriorating health. According to news reports, a few days after receiving the first massage, the singer felt a strange numbness that spread through her body. She was eventually bedridden. Later, when she booked consecutive sessions with the masseuse to get relief, it worsened the situation. She became paralytic within two weeks, and one of her last posts on Facebook read: "I want my story to be a lesson for those who like being massaged a lot. I must recover. I want to work already."

The hospital where she died mentioned that Chayada had suffered from a 'blood infection and brain swelling'.

It was not immediately known whether the two deceased persons -- who belonged to different age brackets -- had underlying health issues that could have been key factors in their deaths. Chayada, however, did mention in one of her Facebook posts that she had gone to the parlour for two sessions of a 'neck twist' massage, and another session of a massage with a 'heavy hand'.

Warnings From A Doctor For Massage Safety

While the two aforementioned cases have shocked doctors and other health experts, we reached out to Dr Sheetal Radia, ENT and head-neck surgeon at Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road, who answered some pressing questions about exercising caution during massage sessions. Read on.

What Is To Be Kept In Mind While Undergoing A Massage Session?

While undergoing a massage session ensure that you choose the right therapist and inform them in advance about your medical conditions, if any. Avoid massages, in case you have any type of injuries, infections, or blood clots. Do not compromise on the quality and authenticity of the massage parlour or clinic, the doctor said.

Particular Precautions To Be Taken While Massaging Head, Neck, Shoulders...

According to Dr Radia, areas like the neck, head, and shoulders are sensitive. "One needs to follow safety measures and take precautions to avoid injuries or complications. If forceful pressure or improper technique is used, it can lead to various injuries, fractures, or even paralysis in some cases. Only gentle pressure needs to be applied. Avoid putting deep pressure near the spine or the arteries to prevent complications."

Can Massages Make A Person Paralytic?

Massage can make a person paralysed if proper technique is not used. It can cause damage to the nerves or arteries. One must always opt for professional massages.

What Does Recovery Look Like After Paralysis?

"The recovery process may differ from person-to-person depending on the severity of the injuries and how promptly it has been diagnosed. Recovery can be improved with the help of rehabilitation or physiotherapy," said Dr Radia.

Should These Victims Have Sought Timely Medical Help?

Yes, early medical intervention can help prevent any type of serious complications that can become problematic in the future. It also increases the chances of recovery if the injury is minor or mild.