A Study of Indigenous Wisdom of Bone Healer in Ratchaburi Province

Abstract

The Qualitative Research were designed to study indigenous wisdom of bone healer in Ratchaburi Province. The participants were four indigenous bone healers from purposive sampling.  The data was collected by using semi-structure interview, participant observation, taking notes, sound recording and photographing. The data were analyzed using descriptive and interpreted. The study found that four indigenous bone healers gained their knowledge of bone treatment from their ancestors and teachers. The process of indigenous wisdom of bone healing had three steps: 1) pre-treatment process; respect payment, patient interview and physical examination 2) treatment step; The process of treatment was adjustment a bone, using coconut oil with directed spells and utilizing bamboo splint and 3) completion of treatment; the treatment did not focus on the payment but involved in the favor. The knowledge of indigenous bone healers was not recorded, so these wisdoms would be disappeared together with the indigenous bone healers in the same time. This study showed the benefit of collecting indigenous bone healers’ knowledge which could lead to future studies and promotion for use in primary health care are expected to help relieve common health problems in the country into the future.