Integrated Thermal Rehabilitation Care: An Intervention Study

Area of Science:

• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Gerontology
• Physiotherapy

Background:

• Evaluating the impact of integrated thermal rehabilitation care (ITRC) on postural balance and quality of life in individuals with basic autonomy.
• Focus on subjects maintaining basic independence in daily activities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the efficacy of ITRC in improving postural control and health-related quality of life.
• To quantify changes in balance parameters and subjective well-being.

Main Methods:

• A cohort of 50 individuals with basic autonomy (Katz Index score of 6) participated.
• Evaluations included baropodometry (static, dynamic, stabilometric) and the EuroQol 5-Dimension (EQ-5D-5L) questionnaire.
• The study was conducted at a National Health Service thermal center in Italy.

Main Results:

• ITRC led to significant improvements in postural control, reducing body imbalance.
• Statistically significant enhancements were observed in quality of life, including improved health status, walking motility, self-care, and habitual activity.
• Participants reported reduced pain/discomfort and anxiety, with a notable increase in the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) for life perception.

Conclusions:

• ITRC effectively improves postural balance and quality of life through subtle postural adjustments.
• The approach is well-tolerated and shows promise for managing various musculoskeletal disorders.
• ITRC offers a viable treatment option for enhancing functional independence and well-being.