Massage Recipient Behavior: A Case study of Thai Traditional Medicine Center, Thai Traditional Medicine Center, Chiang Mai Municipality, Phra Singh Subdistrict, Mueang District, Province of Chiang Mai

Abstract

This research aims to examine 1) the behavior of Thai traditional medicine service users, 2) the physical effects following Thai traditional massage treatment, and 3) the symptoms before and after receiving Thai traditional massage, including treatments from both Thai traditional and modern medicine practitioners at the Thai Traditional Medicine Center of Chiang Mai City Municipality, Phra Sing Sub-district, Mueang District, Chiang Mai Province. The study employs a mixed-method research approach, utilizing in-depth interviews and questionnaires to collect data from a sample of 20 massage service users. The research is grounded in concepts of ancient medicine, Thai medical etiology, modern medical theory, and contemporary medical perspectives on disease causation.

The findings reveal that behaviors leading to physical discomfort among massage service users include prolonged sitting at work, standing while teaching, performing household chores, gardening, as well as accidents and side effects from COVID-19 vaccinations. These factors contribute to body aches, particularly in the neck, shoulders, and upper back areas. Most users sought treatment due to chronic pain that did not improve over time. Post-treatment, the majority of massage service users reported improvement, though not a complete return to their original condition. Notably, most users lacked motivation for treatment as they decided to seek care independently. However, some received encouragement from family members and massage therapists. Many massage service users reported feeling relaxed and physically lighter after treatment, attributing this to targeted massage of affected areas. Importantly, most users had previously sought treatment from modern medicine practitioners but turned to Thai traditional medicine when their symptoms did not improve.

The study reflects the demanding lifestyle of Chiang Mai residents, who work hard for their livelihood, often at the expense of their health. This has led to an increasing trend in seeking Thai traditional massage services, as they require less time and are more cost-effective compared to hospital treatments.