A high school student in Bangkok was hospitalized with a rare and potentially fatal condition after being forced to perform 200 squats as punishment for failing to submit homework on time.
The incident has sparked public outcry and prompted an official disciplinary probe into the teacher responsible.
Student Developed Rhabdomyolysis Days After Punishment
According to a doctor who treated the student and later shared the case with the popular Thai Facebook page Drama-addict, the student began experiencing severe leg pain and dark brown urine three to four days after performing the squats.
These symptoms led to a diagnosis of rhabdomyolysis, a serious condition caused by the breakdown of muscle tissue that can lead to kidney failure if untreated.
The doctor explained that during rhabdomyolysis, dead muscle cells release toxic substances into the bloodstream, stressing the kidneys.
While the student’s condition was considered life-threatening, the doctor confirmed that kidney damage was not severe, though dialysis may still be necessary depending on the student’s recovery.
Education Officials Take Action Against The Teacher
Following public attention, the Office of the Basic Education Commission (OBEC) acknowledged the incident.
According to Daily News, on June 12, OBEC Secretary-General Thanu Wongchinda stated that the involved teacher, employed at a school under the Bangkok Secondary Educational Service Area Office 1 (SESAO 1), had been temporarily reassigned to district duties while an official disciplinary investigation takes place.
Student Recovered and Returned to School
The student’s parents were briefed about the incident and expressed no further concerns. It was also confirmed that the student’s health had improved, and they had returned to school.
Call for Reform in Disciplinary Practices
The treating doctor expressed concern that such punishments are still being used despite the wide access to medical information today.
The doctor emphasized the importance of raising awareness to prevent similar cases in both educational and military settings:
“Situations like this should no longer happen in this day and age, whether in schools or the military. I’d like to raise awareness among the public about how certain punishments can have life-threatening consequences.”
OBEC officials have reminded educators to abide by official disciplinary guidelines, which limit punishments to verbal warnings, probation, points deduction, and behavior improvement activities.
Thanu emphasised that while discipline is important, it should be handled in a way that’s fair and appropriate.
Background: What is rhabdomyolysis?
Rhabdomyolysis can result from trauma, extreme exertion, or muscle compression.
Symptoms typically include:
- Muscle pain,
- weakness,
- and dark-coloured urine, often described as cola or tea-coloured.
If not treated early, it can lead to permanent kidney damage or even death.
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