Moxibustion treatment causes severe burns
Severe burns left a Flushing resident in agony following a traditional Chinese heat therapy session, according to a Queens Supreme Court lawsuit filed on Nov. 9.
Young Ma sought out a traditional Chinese mugwort treatment at Dodam Acupuncture and Pain Clinic in July for pain relief and relaxation, the New York Post reported. Workers at the clinic negligently performed the moxibustion treatment, leaving her with severe and painful burns, according to court documents.
Moxibustion involves burning dried mugwort, an herb known as moxa, on or near specific acupuncture points on the human body to stimulate blood flow, according to the Cleveland Clinic. Dating back to 500 B.C., the practice utilizes direct or indirect application methods.
Direct application places burning moxa directly on the skin until the patient feels the heat. Indirect application is more common in the United States because it is safer, according to the Virginia University Integrative Medicine.
Ma seeks damages in lawsuit against Dodam Acupuncture and Pain Clinic
Ma filed her lawsuit against Dodam Acupuncture and Pain Clinic in Queens Supreme Court, seeking unspecified damages for her injuries. It remains unclear exactly where on her body the burns occurred. Moxibustion is commonly performed on the lower back, abdomen, knees, hands, and feet.
Ma’s attorney, Gregory Newman, and representatives for Dodam Acupuncture and Pain Clinic both declined to comment on the pending litigation.
Frequently asked questions about the lawsuit
What is moxibustion?
Moxibustion is a traditional Chinese medicine therapy that burns the dried herb mugwort near or on the skin to stimulate blood circulation and promote healing.
When was the lawsuit filed?
The lawsuit was filed in Queens Supreme Court on Nov. 9.
What damages are being sought?
Ma is suing Dodam Acupuncture and Pain Clinic for unspecified damages.
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