Woman, 57, Suffers ‘Spider Web’ Burn During Massage Session At Farrer Park TCM Clinic
A 57-year-old woman in Singapore is seeking S$7,000 in compensation after allegedly suffering second-degree burns during a massage session at a traditional Chinese medicine clinic in Farrer Park.
The incident reportedly took place on Jan. 23, 2026, at Tang Shan TCM & Massage, located inside City Square Mall, Shin Min Daily News reported.
According to reports, the woman, identified only as Lin, had visited the clinic for a massage treatment. During the session, a therapist allegedly used an infrared therapy lamp to help relax her muscles.
However, the therapist reportedly attempted to move the lamp using her foot and accidentally knocked it over, causing the hot device to fall directly onto Lin’s back.
Burn Injury Left Distinct ‘Spider Web’ Pattern
Lin said she experienced severe pain immediately after the accident and later sought medical treatment at a nearby clinic.
Doctors reportedly diagnosed her with second-degree burns. The injury allegedly left a visible scar pattern resembling a spider web due to the design of the infrared lamp.
According to Lin, her son later joked that she should tattoo a spider over the scar because of its appearance.
She was prescribed painkillers and medication but claimed the injury caused significant discomfort for weeks. Lin said she could not wear a bra comfortably and had to sleep on her stomach while recovering.
The case has sparked online discussions surrounding workplace safety standards, customer protection, and liability issues involving wellness centres, TCM clinics, and beauty treatment providers in Singapore’s growing health and wellness industry.
Compensation Dispute Emerges Between Customer And Clinic
Lin said the therapist apologised shortly after the incident and transferred S$1,000 to her two days later. However, she returned the money because she believed compensation should officially come from the clinic rather than an individual employee.
The clinic’s director, identified as Max, reportedly told local media that the business had no intention of avoiding responsibility and had been actively communicating with Lin regarding medical costs.
According to screenshots of messages shared with reporters, the clinic stated it was willing to cover expenses related to her treatment. However, the clinic also requested that Lin undergo an assessment by either the clinic’s physician or a doctor appointed by them before compensation arrangements could proceed.
Lin said she felt the request appeared to delay or complicate the compensation process.
She subsequently lodged a complaint with the Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioners Board and also filed a police report.
Woman Says Future Laser Treatment Could Cost Thousands
Lin claimed she has already spent more than S$560 on medical treatment and believes additional aesthetic procedures may be required to minimise the scarring.
She estimated that future laser treatment at an aesthetic clinic could cost between S$5,000 and S$6,000. Taking into account medical consultations and transport costs, she is seeking a total compensation amount of S$7,000.
The clinic reportedly responded that it remained open to paying medical expenses if treatment plans and quotations were provided.
The matter has not been reported as a court case at this stage.
Image Source: Shin Min Daily News and Google Maps