It’s estimated that eight out every 10 adults suffer from low back pain at some point in their lives. Backaches can be caused by just about anything. Injury, misuse, pregnancy, kidney infection, and even stress are just some of the culprits that can leave you doubled over with pain. Painkillers may be prescribed to dull symptoms, but drugs can cause prescription side effects. Here’s an alternative remedy you can try that could potentially ease low back pain: spa therapy.
Spas have become an urban phenomenon, cropping up on every other corner it seems. These indoor spas cater largely to corporate employees who need to de-stress from often frantic work schedules. Why not take advantage of this trend and see if it gives you therapy for your aching back?
Balneotherapy for Chronic Low Back Pain: Study
In a recent clinical trial, researchers investigated the effect of thermal water with high mineral content on clinical parameters and quality of life of patients with chronic low back pain. For the study, 60 patients with chronic low back pain were randomized into two groups. Group one, the treatment group, received “balneotherapy” (bathing as a therapy) with thermal-mineral water, while group two, the control group, bathed in tap water.
The researchers monitored changes in pain symptoms, range of motion in the lumbar spine, as well as other symptoms. They found that the mobility of the lumbar spine, pain symptoms, and quality of life scores improved significantly in the spa therapy group. The researchers concluded that balneotherapy should be considered a viable treatment for chronic low back pain.
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When looking for a spa, keep in mind that not all offer water therapy. Some spas also offer massage therapy. Combining water therapy with massage therapy should go a long way to relieve any back pain you may be experiencing. Regular visits to the spa for a period of time may also lead to other health benefits, included relaxing your mind.