10-12-2024 (BANGKOK) A promising young Thai folk singer’s untimely death has prompted calls for investigation after a series of massage treatments allegedly led to a fatal medical crisis. Chayada Prao-hom, known professionally as Ping Chayada, passed away on Sunday at the tender age of 20, succumbing to septicaemia following weeks of deteriorating health.
The sequence of events began on 5th October when Chayada sought treatment for neck and shoulder discomfort at a licensed massage establishment in Udon Thani province. According to Provincial Health Chief Dr Somchaichote Piyawatwela, the young performer’s condition worsened progressively after three separate massage sessions, which included neck manipulation procedures.
In a social media post dated 6th November, Chayada had mentioned undergoing neck manipulation during her treatment. Her health declined rapidly, with symptoms ranging from arm numbness to leg paralysis, leading to multiple hospital admissions across several medical facilities in the region.
Medical records indicate that whilst no cervical fractures were detected, Chayada developed transverse myelitis, a serious neurological condition characterised by spinal cord inflammation. Despite temporary improvement following initial treatment, her condition deteriorated dramatically, culminating in seizures and admission to intensive care at Udonthani Hospital.
“The circumstances surrounding this tragic case warrant thorough investigation,” Dr Piyawatwela stated. “Whilst the massage establishment and its seven practitioners hold valid licenses, we stand ready to support any investigative efforts, including post-mortem examination, should the family pursue this course of action.”
The exact correlation between the massage treatments and the fatal blood poisoning remains unclear. Health officials noted that prolonged bed rest could have contributed to the septicaemia, though multiple factors may have played a role in the young artist’s decline.
