Study on Dead Sea climatotherapy for rheumatic diseases

The aim of the DMZ Medical Center study was to evaluate the effectiveness of Dead Sea climatotherapy on vitamin D production in Norwegian patients with various rheumatic diseases and to investigate possible correlations between elevated serum vitamin D levels, musculoskeletal symptoms and disease severity.

Sixty Norwegian patients who came to the Dead Sea for 21 days of medical rehabilitation were divided into three groups according to diagnosis: chronic pain syndromes, i.e. back pain or fibromyalgia (group 1); rheumatoid arthritis (group 2); and osteoarthritis (group 3). Serum levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25-OH-D) were determined on arrival and before departure. The treatment protocol included daily sun exposure (climatotherapy), baths in the Dead Sea and mineral spring water (balneotherapy), mud treatments and fitness classes.

Serum levels of 25-OH-D increased significantly. After adjustment for initial pain levels (assessed using a visual analog scale) and disease severity, there was a direct correlation between increased serum 25-OH-D levels and pain relief as well as a reduction in disease activity.

Dead Sea climatotherapy leads to significant changes in vitamin D levels. Elevated serum 25-OH-D levels are associated with a reduction in musculoskeletal pain and disease severity.