Original Research Articles

Traditional Bone-Setters and Fracture Care in Nigeria

Owoseni Joseph Sina¹*, Oluwadare C. Taiwo² and Ibikunle Michael Ayodele²

¹College of Medicine and Health Sciences (Medical Sociology), Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria
²Ekiti State University Ado Ekiti, Nigeria, Department of Sociology

*Corresponding Author's E-mail: owoshynah@yahoo.com; Tel: +2348066504953

Accepted August 29, 2014
 

Abstract

In Nigeria, the practice of traditional bone setting (TBS) is extensive as in other developing nations. Traditional bonesetters play an imperative role in fracture care. Though, the outcome of the intervention of TBS treatment is usually poor with profound effects on the patient in the future. This study seeks to examine the activities of traditional bone setters on fracture care in Ekiti State, Nigeria. Survey method was applied in the study. 250 questionnaires were administered to owners of traditional bone centres and their clients respectively. Ten (10) of such centres were selected for the study in Ekiti. The findings indicated that majority of the bone setters had little or no formal education. Many of them acquired the schema used through ancestral/supernatural power. The TBS lack basic knowledge of investigations and wound care while most of their clients patronized them because of poverty, ignorance and superstitious beliefs. Provision of adequate basic equipment in health institutions may reduce the rate at which people utilize Traditional bone centres against medical advice.

Keywords: Traditional Bone Setters, Fracture, Care, Nigeria.