In a heartbreaking incident, 20-year-old Thai folk singer Chayada Prao-hom passed away on December 8, 2024, after suffering severe complications linked to neck-twisting massages she received at a parlour in Udon Thani. The young artist had been documenting her health struggles on social media since mid-October, revealing the alarming progression of her symptoms following her visits to the massage establishment.
Chayada initially sought relief from shoulder pain and had visited the same massage parlour three times within a month. During her first two sessions, she underwent neck-twisting techniques performed by the same masseuse. Just two days after her first visit on October 5, she began experiencing pain in her neck, which escalated after her second session, leading to severe stiffness and pain throughout her body.
In a candid Facebook post, Chayada expressed her disbelief at her condition, stating, “My mum is a masseuse, and I’ve studied Thai massage since I was a kid. I love massages so much that I didn’t suspect anything. I thought this was simply a side effect of getting another massage.” Unfortunately, her health continued to deteriorate, and by her third visit, she was treated by a different masseuse who applied excessive pressure, resulting in severe swelling and bruising.
Despite taking painkillers, Chayada’s symptoms worsened, leading to persistent tingling in her fingers and extreme fluctuations in temperature sensations. Within weeks, she lost the use of her right arm and reported that over 50% of her body had become paralyzed. By November 18, her condition had worsened to the point where she was bedridden and unable to move independently.
Chayada’s boyfriend revealed that she had contemplated legal action against the massage parlour but was uncertain about the strength of her case. Tragically, she was pronounced dead in the ICU due to complications from a blood infection and brain swelling early on December 8.
In the wake of her death, the Udon Thani Provincial Public Health Office launched an investigation into the massage parlour. Authorities discovered that only two of the seven masseuses employed there held valid licenses, while the others were under scrutiny. The parlour’s manager stated that the establishment has been operating since 2005 and emphasized that licensed staff are trained to avoid dangerous neck-twisting techniques, which are discouraged due to their associated risks.
Medical experts have warned that neck-twisting can lead to serious complications, including damage to arteries supplying blood to the brain, potentially resulting in strokes and paralysis. Professor Dr. Thiravat Hemachudha highlighted the dangers of such practices, noting that repeated neck manipulation can harm both nerves and blood vessels.
As the investigation continues, the tragic case of Chayada Prao-hom serves as a stark reminder of the potential risks associated with certain massage techniques, particularly for individuals with underlying health issues. The incident has sparked discussions about the need for stricter regulations and oversight in the massage industry to ensure the safety and well-being of clients.