Fango mud is applied to the thighs and knees

Study on pain relief for knee osteoarthritis with mud

Ersin Odabasi et al.

June 2008

Fango treatment

Rheumatism / Joints / Arthritis / Arthrosis

The aim of the study was to determine the effectiveness of mud on patients with knee osteoarthritis and, in particular, to find out whether the mud itself contains chemically active substances.

Out of a total of 60 participants, the first group of 30 patients received the mud packs heated to 43 °C directly on both knees; in the other group, the knees were covered with an impermeable nylon sheet before the same type of mud pack was applied. Both groups received a total of 15 treatments per session of 30 minutes. Tests were carried out using WOMAC and VAS, and patient statements and medical findings were also evaluated. Examinations were carried out before and immediately after the end of the treatment series, with follow-up examinations every 4 weeks over a period of 24 weeks.

A significant improvement in pain and functionality was observed in both groups, regardless of whether the mud was applied directly or indirectly (with nylon foil). However, the improvements observed were more pronounced in the first group during the entire post-treatment phase.

This suggests that the mud contains chemical components that contribute to the therapeutic effect of the mud packs.

The most important information on the study at a glance

Indications: Osteoarthritis
Institution: Department of Medical Ecology and Hydroclimatology, Gulhane School of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
Title: Study on pain relief for knee osteoarthritis with mud
Brief description: The study shows that mud improves pain and functionality in knee osteoarthritis, with direct contact having a more lasting effect.
Original title: Does mud pack treatment have any chemical effect? A randomized controlled clinical study
Link to the study: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18564957/