The Effects of a Branding Iron

Branding, a form of faith healing in some third-world cultures by using a hot rod or metallic object to create third-degree burns on the skin, incurs medical risks. The theory behind branding assumes that a brief use of moderately intense pain (branding) relieves chronic illness or pain, a phenomenon called "counterirritation." The Journal of Medical Case Reports concludes that the severe complications from this type of healing outweigh any short-term benefits.

Healing

• Modern medical practitioners consider branding dangerous.

  Some third-world faith healers use branding as a form of therapeutic treatment for chronic conditions. However, because of lack of positive scientific evidence and also medical contraindications, most modern medical practitioners do not recommend its use.

Infection

• Infection occurs as a negative side effect of branding. The procedure is often performed in non-sterile environments with little or no long-term treatment of the wound. Third-degree burns affect deep tissue; therefore, topical antibiotics are not useful. If not treated properly or left untreated, this can result in infection.

Septic Shock

• Septic shock can lead to low blood pressure.

  Some branding victims have experienced septic shock. Septic shock occurs when the body produces an inflammatory reaction to the toxins from bacteria caused by infection. Septic shock can lead to poor organ function and low blood pressure; it is considered a serious condition that can result in death if left untreated.

Scars and Disfigurement

• The third-degree burns caused by branding can lead to scars and even disfigurement. Third-degree burns affect deep tissue, and scarring occurs.