Balneotherapy as a Complementary Intervention for Stress and Cortisol Reduction: Findings from a Randomized...

Area of Science:

• Environmental Medicine
• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Psychoneuroendocrinology

Background:

• Stress is a pervasive modern challenge impacting neurological function and rehabilitation.
• Elevated cortisol levels associated with stress negatively affect cognitive function and recovery.
• Effective stress-reduction methods are crucial for enhancing mental health and overall well-being.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the seasonal impact of balneotherapy on distress and well-being.
• To assess the effect of winter balneotherapy on salivary cortisol levels.
• To investigate balneotherapy's role in supporting neurological rehabilitation.

Main Methods:

• A multicenter, single-blind, randomized controlled trial involving six Lithuanian medical spa centers in 2023.
• Participants with stress intensity >3 (VAS) received 1-2 week natural resource-based therapies.
• Outcomes measured via General Symptom Distress Scale (GSDS), Arizona Integrative Outcomes Scale (AIOS), and salivary cortisol.

Main Results:

• Balneotherapy significantly reduced distress (1-3.5 points VAS), with winter treatments being more effective than summer.
• Participants reported increased well-being (up to 3 points VAS) and improved stress management (up to 1.9 points VAS).
• Winter balneotherapy led to a reduction in salivary cortisol levels (0.9 units).

Conclusions:

• Balneotherapy demonstrates significant stress-reducing effects, with winter interventions showing enhanced efficacy.
• Findings support balneotherapy's utility in neurological rehabilitation by improving autonomic regulation and supporting neuroplasticity.
• Seasonally optimized balneotherapy offers a holistic strategy for stress management and promoting neurological health.