Thailand to train 20,000 masseurs as medicine assistants
The Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine announced an initiative to train 20,000 traditional Thai masseurs as certified Thai traditional doctors’ assistants. This will enable them to address seven specific muscle-related conditions.
Doctor Somruek Chungsaman, the department’s chief, highlighted yesterday, April 2, the effectiveness of traditional Thai massage in treating various muscle-related conditions.
The upskilling programmes will focus on addressing frozen shoulder, trigger finger, piriformis syndrome, herniated disc, hemiparesis, paralysis, and knee pain.
The department’s comprehensive training programme aims to enhance the skills of traditional masseurs, integrating these conditions into medical rehabilitation practices.
This initiative aligns with the Ministry of Public Health’s broader strategy to raise the profile and value of traditional Thai medicine within the national healthcare system.
Dr Somruek stated that the department is developing a robust scientific database to highlight the benefits of traditional Thai massage.
This database is intended to increase confidence in these treatments and establish Thailand as a leading destination for medical and wellness tourism.
According to Doctor Thewan Thanirat, the department’s deputy chief, there are over 120,000 registered Thai masseurs, many of whom are eligible for this advanced training programme.
Upon completion, these masseurs will treat patients under licensed traditional Thai doctors in clinical or hospital environments, with their income expected to increase from 500 to 800 baht per case.
Dr Thewan expressed that the goal is to train 20,000 masseurs by the end of the year to meet rising market demand.
The training will encompass health science, specialised massage techniques, and legal and ethical considerations, with certification provided by the Thai Traditional Massage College.
Additionally, the department plans to raise the number of certified trainers by 1,000, totalling 20,000 soon, reported Bangkok Post.
In December last year, a seasoned Thai masseuse, caught up in controversy following the tragic death of luk thung singer Chayada Praohom in Udon Thani, is seeking justice.
The 20 year old singer died two months after undergoing a controversial neck-twisting procedure. While an autopsy cleared the massage of any wrongdoing, lingering questions and suspicions remain.
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