Balneotherapy

Balneotherapy is the treatment of disease by bathing, usually practiced at spas. While it is considered distinct from hydrotherapy, there are some overlaps in practice and in underlying principles. Balneotherapy may involve hot or cold water, massage through moving water, relaxation or stimulation. Many mineral waters at spas are rich in particular minerals (silica, sulfur, selenium, radium) which can be absorbed through the skin. Medicinal clays are also widely used, which practice is known as 'fangotherapy'.

Special Precautions of Balneotherapy

• If you have any illnesses or diseases, or are pregnant, consult with your physician before using spa therapy.
• Avoid soaking in a hot spring alone and the elderly should use with caution. Don’t use a spa if you are under the influence of alcohol or drugs, especially heart medications. Don’t overheat, drink plenty of cool water and use private pools if you have a skin disease.

The benefits of Balneotherapy are

• Bathing in hot springs gradually increases the temperature of the body, thus killing harmful germs and viruses.
• Thermal bathing increases hydrostatic pressure on the body, thus increasing blood circulation and cell oxygenation. The increase in blood flow also helps dissolve and eliminate toxins from the body.
• Hot springs bathing increases the flow of oxygen-rich blood throughout the body, bringing improved nourishment to vital organs and tissues.
• Bathing in thermal water increases body metabolism, including stimulating the secretions of the intestinal tract and the liver, aiding digestion.
• Repeated hot springs bathing (especially over three- to four-week period) can help normalize the functions of the endocrine glands as well as the functioning of the body’s autonomic nervous system.
• Trace amounts of minerals such as carbon dioxide, sulfur, calcium, magnesium, and lithium are absorbed by the body and provide healing effects to various body organs and system. These healing effects can include stimulation of the immune system, leading to enhanced immunity; physical and mental relaxation; the production of endorphins; and normalized gland function.
• Mineral springs contain high amounts of negative ions, which can help promote feelings of physical and psychological well-being.
• The direct application of mineralized thermal waters (especially those containing sulfur) can have a therapeutic effect on diseases of the skin, including psoriasis, dermatitis, and fungal infections. Some mineral waters are also used to help the healing of wounds and other skin injuries.
• CHRONIC DISEASES
  • Chronic rheumatic diseases
  • Functional recovery of central and peripheral neuroparalysis
  • Metabolic diseases, especially diabetes, obesity, and gout
  • Chronic gastrointestinal diseases
  • Chronic mild respiratory diseases
  • Circulatory diseases, especially moderate or mild hypertension
  • Peripheral circulatory diseases (affecting the hands and feet)
  • Chronic skin diseases
  • Psychosomatic and stress-related diseases
  • Autonomic nervous system dysfunction
  • Vibration disorder (a middle ear disorder affecting balance)
  • Sequela of (conditions resulting from) trauma
  • Chronic gynecological diseases