Young Thai Singer Passes Away Due to Neck-Twisting Massage

The tragic passing of 20-year-old Thai singer Ping Chayada has sparked widespread discussions about the safety of massage therapy, especially neck-twisting techniques. Chayada, a beloved Thai country singer, succumbed to complications from nerve and brain damage after undergoing several massage sessions aimed at alleviating shoulder pain.

A Warning from Personal Experience

On Oct. 5, Chayada visited a massage parlor in Udon Thani to relieve her back pain. Following a "neck twist" performed by the therapist, she began experiencing numbness in her left arm, which later spread to her entire body. Despite these warning signs, Chayada initially dismissed the symptoms as normal side effects of the massage. In her social media updates, she shared her ordeal, aiming to educate her fans about the risks of excessive and improper massage techniques.

By the time of her third session, her symptoms had worsened significantly, with severe bruising, stiffness, and pain spreading throughout her body. Despite taking painkillers, her condition deteriorated rapidly, leaving her unable to move more than half her body. She documented her experience to caution others, writing, “I want my story to be a lesson for those who like being massaged a lot.”

Medical Insights and Expert Warnings

Chayada’s untimely death has drawn attention to the potential dangers of neck-twisting massages. Professor Thiravat Hemachudha, a neurologist and advisor at Rangsit University’s College of Oriental Medicine, issued a public warning, emphasizing that such maneuvers can cause severe harm if performed incorrectly.

“Twisting the neck or massaging the cervical spine can lead to paralysis, stroke, or even death,” Thiravat explained. The abrupt movements may damage blood vessels supplying the brain, leading to tissue death, hemiplegia, and other life-threatening complications. Individuals with pre-existing conditions such as obesity or high blood pressure face elevated risks.

Thiravat recommended alternative self-relief exercises to alleviate neck pain, such as gentle, controlled neck movements that strengthen muscles and improve posture without risking injury.

Investigation Underway

Authorities are currently investigating the massage parlor where Chayada received treatment. While the establishment confirmed that all its therapists are licensed, questions remain about the standards and techniques used. Arkom Praditsuwan, Deputy Director-General of Thailand’s Department of Health Service Support, noted that improper adaptations of traditional Thai massage methods could pose serious health risks.

In a similar incident, a 52-year-old Singaporean tourist died in Phuket after a beachside oil massage, further underscoring the potential dangers of improperly administered treatments.

Industry Accountability and Public Awareness

The tragic loss of Ping Chayada serves as a stark reminder for both the massage industry and the public. While massage therapy can provide relief for minor discomforts, experts stress the importance of seeking professional medical advice for persistent or severe pain. Licensed practitioners must also adhere to safe practices and avoid techniques that could endanger clients’ health.

Ping Chayada’s story is a poignant call to action, urging both practitioners and clients to prioritize safety and informed decision-making when considering therapeutic treatments. Her legacy lives on as a lesson to exercise caution and ensure the highest standards in health and wellness practices.