Application of balneotherapy methods in the complex rehabilitation of patients with acute cerebrovascular accident (preliminary results)

The aim of the study was to scientifically substantiate the efficiency of using various balneotherapeutic procedures within the framework of spa and resort rehabilitation of patients after stroke. Material and methods. The study included 60 patients aged 45–75 years, who were divided into 3 groups (n = 20 in each). Patients in the control group received a full range of accepted methods of rehabilitation after stroke [exercise therapy, massage, robotic mechanotherapy with biological feedback: the Armeo Spring exoskeleton (Hocoma AG) was used, the C-Mill rehabilitation complex (Hocoma) was used for walking training, hardware physiotherapy]. The comparison groups, in addition to this standard program, additionally received balneotherapy. Group 1: standard program + general highly mineralized brine baths. For the procedures, we used the Physiotechnica bath (Italy) with highly mineralized mineral water (sodium chloride brine concentrate, the so-called "brine"); Group 2: standard program + dry carbon dioxide baths. The Reabox device for dry CO₂ baths was used. In all comparison groups, balneotherapy was carried out against the background of standard rehabilitation measures. Results. When analyzing the preliminary results, a reliable decrease in the severity of pain syndrome and muscle spasticity, an improvement in the biomechanics of walking, functional mobility and self-care ability were noted in patients who received highly mineralized (brine) baths. Conclusion. The most pronounced clinical effect was observed with the inclusion of general brine baths. All the balneotherapy procedures used demonstrated a high safety profile and good tolerability, without causing serious side effects.