Skin burns from applying leaves to treat back pain.

Recently, the Traditional Medicine Department of Vietnam-Sweden Uong Bi Hospital ( Quang Ninh ) received a patient admitted for treatment of back pain with skin burns on the back.

The male patient suffered skin burns from self-treating back pain with medication.

Reportedly, the patient had self-treated their back pain by applying leaves to their skin, resulting in not only no relief but also second-degree burns.

The patient, Mr. LVN (39 years old, residing in Dong Trieu town), has a history of back pain for many years. One week before being admitted to the hospital, Mr. N. experienced a recurrence of back pain, radiating down both legs with constant numbness and fatigue. The pain worsened with movement, coughing, sneezing, and limited bending and straightening.

Notably, Mr. N. did not go to the hospital for examination but instead read online and found a type of leaf to crush and mix with salt to apply as a treatment. After 3 days, his back pain did not improve, and the skin area where the remedy was applied even blistered.

When he noticed that his skin burns were not healing, Mr. N. went to the Vietnam-Sweden Uong Bi Hospital for examination and was admitted to the Traditional Medicine Department for treatment with the following diagnoses: lumbar disc herniation, lumbar spinal degeneration, and second-degree burns in the lumbar region measuring approximately 3x6 cm.

At the Traditional Medicine Department, Mr. N. received treatment for pain relief, anti-inflammation, muscle relaxation, and burn wound care, combined with traditional medicine procedures such as electroacupuncture, hydroacupuncture, and massage.

After more than a week of treatment, Mr. N's back pain has decreased, he can bend and straighten his back more easily, and the burns on his lower back have scabbed over and formed scars…

Through the case of Mr. LVN, Dr. Nguyen Thi Song An, Head of the Traditional Medicine Department at Vietnam-Sweden Uong Bi Hospital, advises people that when they are not fully aware of the effects and uses of medicinal leaves, they should absolutely not follow unproven methods or self-medicate with drugs of unknown origin, unregulated drugs, or drugs widely advertised online. If they notice any changes in their physical condition or health, they should immediately go to reputable medical facilities for examination, consultation, and proper treatment to avoid unwanted complications.

Source: https://thanhnien.vn/bong-da-vi-dap-la-tri-dau-lung-185240511115053623.htm