ABSTRACT
In the literature relevant knowledge is available about the properties and physiological effects of CO2 and H2S. Both gases penetrate the skin easily and increase microcirculation of the skin. Additionally, effects on thermal receptors (CO2) and pain perception (H2S) have been demonstrated in several trials. Other effects of H2S refer to a modulation of immune cells. From this knowledge indications and contraindications may be derived. However, there is a need for prospective controlled trials to prove the efficacy of such treatments. Future directions and perspectives of research using these balneological remedies will be discussed.
ABSTRACT
Balneotherapy is defined as a group of treatment modalities using natural remedies. The term also is used to describe complex multimodal interventions for the prevention, treatment and rehabilitation of (chronic) health conditions. The use of the term rehabilitation also is dual: on one hand it is used for a health strategy to overcome disability and to improve functioning. On the other hand it is defined as a set of measures used in multidisciplinary teams. Thus, the definitions of balneotherapy and rehabilitation are different but have some overlap too. It needs to be discussed, how balneotherpy can be used for rehabilitation of chronic health conditions and what the evidence of the added value is. Secondly, the tradition of comprehensive treatments in health resorts should be analysed using the criteria of rehabilitation measures and also here the added value must be demonstrated.
ABSTRACT
Balneotherapy is defined as a group of treatment modalities using natural remedies. The term also is used to describe complex multimodal interventions for the prevention, treatment and rehabilitation of (chronic) health conditions. The use of the term rehabilitation also is dual: on one hand it is used for a health strategy to overcome disability and to improve functioning. On the other hand it is defined as a set of measures used in multidisciplinary teams. Thus, the definitions of balneotherapy and rehabilitation are different but have some overlap too. It needs to be discussed, how balneotherpy can be used for rehabilitation of chronic health conditions and what the evidence of the added value is. Secondly, the tradition of comprehensive treatments in health resorts should be analysed using the criteria of rehabilitation measures and also here the added value must be demonstrated.
ABSTRACT
In the literature relevant knowledge is available about the properties and physiological effects of CO<sub>2</sub> and H<sub>2</sub>S. Both gases penetrate the skin easily and increase microcirculation of the skin. Additionally, effects on thermal receptors (CO<sub>2</sub>) and pain perception (H<sub>2</sub>S) have been demonstrated in several trials. Other effects of H<sub>2</sub>S refer to a modulation of immune cells. From this knowledge indications and contraindications may be derived. However, there is a need for prospective controlled trials to prove the efficacy of such treatments. Future directions and perspectives of research using these balneological remedies will be discussed.