Balneotherapy for rheumatoid arthritis

Can spa therapy help my rheumatoid arthritis?

In the last two decades, balneotherapy which includes use of natural mineral waters, spas, mudpacks and other soils have been widely promoted for people with all types of arthritis. There are spas and mineral springs in almost every touristic area these days claiming that the therapy can relieve pain and swelling in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. There are 1000s of people going each year to the Dead Sea (Israel) and to the famous Bath spas (England) to expose their joints to the miraculous soil and water. But do all these mud packs and other similar therapies work for people with rheumatoid arthritis?

First the facts- spa and related therapies are very expensive. Most mineral spas can charge anywhere from $50-$100 just to soak your joints for 30 mins. Secondly, the spa and natural spring water for health is a billion dollar business. Third, most of the reports on the medical benefits of spas and mineral waters have never been scientifically verified. Finally all the hype you read is written by people who have a vested interest in selling this therapy to gullible and desperate people seeking miracle cures.

The majority of people who undergo spa therapy do feel great while they are soaking their body in the mud and soil. However, while mudpacks and spas do increase joint mobility for a short while, they do not decrease the intensity of pain or swelling.  None of these therapies have long-lasting benefits.

At the moment, there is Zero evidence that balneotherapy can provide pain relief or slow down rheumatoid arthritis. While spas and mud therapies are safe and soothing, they are not cheap. So for people who have money to burn, sure go ahead and fly to Israel or Bath and try out the natural spas for yourself. For those of you who do not have money to waste, do not worry you are not missing out on anything. Save your money for food and other important things in life. You can get the same experience of Bath spa or Dead sea by soaking yourself in dirty warm water mixed with manure in your bath tub at home.