The Wisdom of Folk Healers in the Treatment of Fractures of the Upper Northern Region

Abstract

          This study aimed to investigate the bone fracture treatment process of traditional healers in the Upper Northern Region of Thailand and its integration with modern medical approaches. A qualitative research methodology was employed, involving document analysis, in-depth interviews, and both participant and non-participant observations. The participants were selected through purposive sampling and included traditional healers renowned for their expertise in bone fracture treatment across six provinces: Lampang, Lamphun, Chiang Rai, Nan, Phayao, and Phrae. All selected healers had a minimum of ten years of experience and were still actively providing treatment at the time of the study. As a result of the research process, six traditional healers who met the inclusion criteria and consented to share their knowledge were included in the study. The data collected through in-depth interviews and various forms of observation were analyzed and categorized in accordance with the research objectives.

         The findings revealed that 1) The backgrounds and traditional knowledge of healers were diverse in terms of education, occupation, and learning pathways. Most acquired their knowledge through intergenerational transmission or apprenticeship with a master healer, often embedded in ritual and cultural contexts. This reflects a deeply rooted and community-based body of knowledge. 2) The bone fracture treatment process demonstrated a distinctive integration of traditional medical science and art. The procedures generally involved ritual offerings to the ancestral teachers, patient history-taking, physical examination, application of sesame oil, bone realignment, splinting with bamboo or PVC tubes, and post-treatment dietary and activity restrictions. While formal follow-up systems were lacking, healers often monitored patient outcomes informally through community networks, reflecting strong healer-patient relationships. 3) The core remedy used was sesame oil, prepared via cold-press or steaming techniques. Some healers enriched the oil with specific herbs to enhance pain relief and bone healing. Despite its long-standing efficacy, this traditional formula remains at risk of being lost due to the lack of systematic documentation and limited knowledge transmission across generations. This study underscores the importance of systematically documenting, preserving, and transmitting traditional healing knowledge. Such efforts can help safeguard this cultural heritage while promoting its integration into the modern Thai healthcare system in alignment with the holistic principles of Thai traditional medicine—rooted in nature, community, and ethical practice.