Study on hydrotherapy & training for PAVK

Joanna Kapusta et al.

May 2019

Healing & thermal therapy

Heart / Circulatory system

The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of massage and controlled physical exercise on the temperature of the lower extremities in patients with atherosclerotic peripheral vascular disease.

The study conducted by the Medical University of Lodz involved 50 patients, women and men aged 39 to 79 years, with impaired peripheral circulation of the lower extremities. The patients were randomly divided into two groups, with 25 patients in each group. In Group I, 10 lower limb vortex massage procedures and individually selected training including breathing exercises, relaxation techniques and active lower limb exercises were performed. In group II, only individually selected training was performed. The temperature of the lower extremities was measured in all patients using an infrared multifunction thermometer (IR). The measurements were taken at the beginning and after completion of the rehabilitation program.

Astatistically significant increase in the temperature of the lower extremities was observed in Group I.

The applied vortex massages had a significant effect on the improvement of lower extremity heat. Hydrotherapy treatments have a positive effect on the treatment of patients with chronic ischemia of the lower extremities.

The most important information on the study at a glance

Indications: Peripheral arterial occlusive disease
Institution: Medical University of Lodz: Department of Internal Diseases and Cardiac Rehabilitation, Poland
Title: Study on the effect of hydrotherapy & training on peripheral arterial occlusive disease (PAD)
Brief description: The study shows: Massages & controlled training led to a significant increase in temperature of the lower extremities in PAD.
Original title: The influence of treatments in the field of hydrotherapy and controlled physical training on the temperature of lower limbs in patients with atherosclerotic peripheral vascular disease
Link to the study: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31152534/