Woman dies after suspected electromagnetic treatment

June 22, 2015 14:12

Police officers search the clinic after a patient died while undergoing treatment for back pain. The clinic allegedly used an electromagnetic machine (inset) on her. Photo: RTHK

A 59-year-old woman died after undergoing therapy for back pain.

Ho Pik-wah, a widow and mother of three, was found unconscious during the session at a Tai Kok Tsui private clinic.

Apple Daily is reporting she was certified dead in hospital from a suspected heart attack.

The actual cause of death is being investigated.

The clinic's 57-year-old owner was arrested for violation of the medical clinics ordinance.

Police seized several medical devices including a China-made bioelectromagnetic equipment believed to have been used on the patient.

She had been diagnosed with early diabetes but had no known heart-related problems

Dr. Ho Hung-kwong, a council member of the Hong Kong Medical Association, said the sudden introduction of electric impulses to the body can alter the heartbeat, regardless of the condition of the patient.

He warned the public against such procedures, saying there's no evidence these are effective.

Ho Pik-wah had completed 11 sessions for muscle pain and bought an additional HK$3,000 worth of treatment.

On Sunday, she booked a 2 p.m. appointment to treat her back pain.

Ho was fine during the first 30 minutes but became unresponsive when her lower back was being treated.

The therapist was the clinic's owner herself, according to Apple Daily.

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