The Knowledge and Practice of a Traditional Healer in Using Acupuncture for Disease Treatment among Ethnic Minority Communities: A Case Study from Pong District in Thailand

Abstract

This case study explored the acupuncture utilization among ethnic minorities and examined knowledge and folk wisdom of a traditional healer. The data was collected through a brief questionnaire with 370 ethnic minority villagers and an in-depth interview and observation with one traditional healer who utilized acupuncture techniques for disease treatment in Pong district, Phayao province, Thailand. Of the 370 villagers, 53.5% were aware of traditional healer practicing acupuncture and 20.3% had received the treatment. Most (91.6%) were satisfied with the treatment. The case study subject, a 69-year-old traditional healer with formal training in Chinese medicine, demonstrated a modified acupuncture technique characterized by fewer points and shallower needle insertion compared to traditional methods. This study reveals the acceptance of and satisfaction with acupuncture in the rural Thai ethnic minority communities. This study also highlights the integration of traditional knowledge with formal training and underscores the potential role of traditional healers in community healthcare. Further research is recommended to explore the integration of traditional practices into mainstream healthcare systems.