Balneotherapy in treatment of spastic upper limb after stroke.

INTRODUCTION: After stroke, spasticity is often the main problem that prevents functional recovery. Pain occurs in up to 70% of patients during the first year post-stroke.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 70 patients (30 female and 45 male) mean age (65.67) participated in prospective, controlled study.

INCLUSION CRITERIA: ischaemic stroke, developed spasticity of upper limb, post-stroke interval <6 months.

EXCLUSION CRITERIA: contraindications for balneotherapy and inability to follow commands. Experimental group (Ex) (n=35) was treated with sulphurous baths (31°-33°C) and controlled group (Co) with taped water baths, during 21 days. All patients were additionally treated with kinesitherapy and cryotherapy. The outcome was evaluated using Modified Ashworth scale for spasticity and VAS scale for pain. The significance value was sat at p<0.05.

GOAL: To find out the effects of balneotherapy with sulphurous bath on spasticity and pain in affected upper limb.

RESULTS: Reduction in tone of affected upper limb muscles was significant in Ex group (p<0.05). Pain decreased significantly in Ex-group (p<0.01).

CONCLUSION: Our results show that balneotherapy with sulphurous water reduces spasticity and pain significantly and can help in treatment of post-stroke patients.