This bizarre form of Thai hammer massage uses a wooden mallet to relax the muscles.

The unique massage technique called 'Tok Sen' hits different pressure points on the body to improve its alignment, increase blood circulation, and promote flexibility of the muscles.

It is offered in specialist massage outlets around the country, where a masseuse swiftly taps a hammer against different shaped pieces of wood along the spine and bones.

Masseuse Ar-Jarn Mhong runs a shop in Nonthaburi province and said he uses tools he inherited from previous generations.

He added: 'If someone is experiencing pain when I hit it in a certain position, it is because there is a problem in that spot.'

His customers also appear relaxed by the sounds of the tapping wood and are startled when the mallet makes a bone crackle.

Ar-Jarn added: ‘Once the massage is complete, you will feel relaxed.'