An X-ray revealing numerous foreign objects resembling parasites scattered throughout the head of a woman in her 60s has recently been made public. These objects were caused by a controversial treatment known as gold acupuncture, where thin strips of pure gold are injected into specific pain points in the body. Medical professionals warn that if this procedure is performed with foreign objects left inside the body, it can lead to inflammation and secondary infections.
Dr. Yang Seong Kwan, head of the Family Medicine Department at Uijeongbu Paik Hospital in South Korea, recently shared a post about gold acupuncture on his social media, titled Korean-style Treatment.
In his post, Yang described the patient’s X-ray, noting that several foreign objects, each about 1 cm in size, were visible. “In most other countries, this would be seen as a bizarre medical anomaly,” he commented. “But here in Korea, doctors recognize it immediately and can’t help but shake their heads. These aren’t parasites or electronic chips—they’re remnants from a treatment known as gold acupuncture.”
Gold acupuncture, also known as gold thread therapy, involves inserting tiny strands of pure gold—less than 1 cm long—into areas of pain. Supporters of the treatment believe that the embedded gold provides continuous stimulation to the affected area, boosting its therapeutic benefits. However, healthcare professionals warn that leaving foreign objects in the body can cause inflammation and increase the risk of potentially harmful secondary infections.
Despite the concerning X-ray, Yang diagnosed the patient with tension headaches. “We conducted thorough brain MRI and MRA scans, and both came back clear. We can definitively rule out any bleeding, brain cancer, or stroke,” he explained, reassuring the patient that while her symptoms were troubling, her condition was not life-threatening.
The medical community remains cautious regarding gold acupuncture and similar treatments that involve inserting foreign substances into the body. Experts continue to warn about the unpredictable side effects and risks, which can have serious consequences for patients’ health.