Gold in Her Knees: When Alternative Therapies Hide Unexpected Surprises
When knee pain becomes a daily struggle, most people expect simple solutions: painkillers, exercises, or physical therapy. But for a 65-year-old woman in South Korea, her quest for relief uncovered something entirely unexpected—tiny pieces of gold embedded in her joints.
Her battle with osteoarthritis had made ordinary movements painful. Walking, climbing stairs, or even bending to tie her shoes caused swelling and stiffness. Conventional treatments—painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs—offered minimal relief and upset her stomach. Seeking an alternative, she turned to acupuncture.
In her treatment, small gold threads or needles were intentionally left inside her knees, a method used in some parts of Asia to provide ongoing relief for arthritis. While intended to help, this approach carries hidden risks.
Medical experts warn that leaving foreign objects in the body can trigger complications. “Anything that doesn’t belong in the body can cause swelling, infection, or scar tissue,” explains Dr. Ali Guermazi, a radiology professor at Boston University. Metal implants can also interfere with imaging scans, making X-rays less reliable and MRIs potentially dangerous if magnets move the needles near sensitive tissues.
This case illustrates a surprising reality: even therapies rooted in tradition aren’t without consequences. What was meant to bring relief became a hidden complication, a “treasure” with potential hazards.
The Takeaway
Alternative and traditional treatments can offer benefits, but patients must be fully informed about risks. This story serves as a reminder that even treatments seen as harmless can leave lasting—and sometimes unexpected—marks on the body.