Nov
25
Spa Therapy in Fibromyalgia Syndrome
Spa therapy can be useful as part of a multidisciplinary approach to treating Fibromyalgia Syndrome, a recent article concludes.
A team of Italian researchers carried out a review of the data from 2000 to 2007 concerning the use of spa therapy as a treatment for Fibromyalgia Syndrome (Fibro). [1]
This data confirmed that spa therapy should be a valid tool in the multidisciplinary approach of Fibro, as it may be useful for the chronic widespread musculoskeletal pain that patients experience. [1]
The researchers note that the mechanisms of action of spa therapy are not completely known, but most probably the benefits could be derived from mechanical, physical and chemical factors. Muscle tone and pain intensity can be positively influenced by mud packs and thermal baths. [1]
Various spa therapies are more widely used in continental Europe, where medical spa resorts still operate and where complmentary therapies are often far more widely used alongside medications by conventional healthcare professionals.
The EULAR evidence based recommendations for the management of Fibromyalgia Syndrome recommend that:
"Optimal treatment of FMS mandates a multidisciplinary approach, which should include a combination of nonpharmacologic and pharmacologic interventions." [2]
Specific recommendations on the nonpharmacologic management of Fibro include:
"Heated pool treatment, with or without exercise, is effective." [2]
"Based on the specific needs of the patient, relaxation, rehabilitation, physiotherapy, psychological support, and other modalities may be indicated." [2]
References:
- Giannitti C, Bellisai B, Iacoponi F, Petraglia A, Fioravanti A. [New evidences on spa therapy in fibromyalgia.][Article in Italian] Clin Ter. 2008 Sep-Oct;159(5):377-380.
- Carville SF, Arendt-Nielsen S, Bliddal H, Blotman F, Branco JC, Buskila D, Da Silva JA, Danneskiold-Samsøe B, Dincer F, Henriksson C, Henriksson KG, Kosek E, Longley K, McCarthy GM, Perrot S, Puszczewicz M, Sarzi-Puttini P, Silman A, Späth M, Choy EH; EULAR. EULAR evidence-based recommendations for the management of fibromyalgia syndrome. Ann Rheum Dis. 2008 Apr;67(4):536-41. Epub 2007 Jul 20.