Shaolin Monks Treated Mickael Pietrus’ Knee Injury

Mickael Pietrus played for the Phoenix Suns last season, the team with arguably the most innovative medical crew in the NBA. With the lockout in place, Pietrus sought knee injury relief from, um, a not-so-traditional source. Per the Sporting News: “Pietrus missed the last 12 games of the NBA season, and did not play for France in EuroBasket or pursue overseas opportunities this summer, because of the injury. Pietrus traveled to the Shaolin Temple in central China’s Henan Province, where he tried ‘several traditional Chinese medicine therapies, including acupuncture, massage and some unique remedies administered by Shaolin monks,’ the Chinese site What’s In Xiamen reported. Shaolin Temple, a Buddhist monastery, has had its own hospital for over 1,000 years, according to the report. Shaquille O’Neal has also sought treatment there. Pietrus returned to France this week before completing all the therapy, but said he was no longer experiencing pain in his knee and that he was ready to resume practicing soon.”