Wisdom of folk healer for lumbar disc herniation treatment

Abstract

This research aimed to analyze a theorem of  lumbar disc herniation treatment with Thai folk healer and its effect on patients. For collecting qualitative data, an observation technique, semi-structure and in-depth interviews were conducted from a Thai folk healer and 10 patients. The data were analyzed by using typology and taxonomy, induction analysis, and content analysis. The results showed the therapeutic massage practice by a folk healer, called “Chap-Sen”. It conprise 1) master worshiping, 2) patient’s history taking, 3) vertebrae examination, 4) vertebrae stretching, 5) Chap-Sen massage according to patient’s symptoms, 6) post treatment examination, and 7) restriction of exertion in related muscles for fifteen days after treatment. If the symptoms remained, the treatment was rearranged in next four days. A course of treatment can last from one day to three months depending on patient’s symptoms. After treatment, patients’ pain was relieved or it completely disappeared. However, the symptom was possibly to recurrent depending on patient’s behavior. Even though muscle feeble improved and muscle numbness eased, it was not cured completely. In conclusion, the practices are interesting and show logics. Our findings can be used as a guideline for further improvement of Thai Traditional therapeutic message and further study on its efficacy in clinical trial.