Study on lowering blood pressure through Kneipp hydrotherapy

Hydrotherapeutic measures according to Kneipp are said to lower elevated blood pressure levels. The study at the Bad Wörishofen clinic aims to clarify whether this is only due to relaxation and the new health-conscious lifestyle.

The controlled, randomized study was carried out on hypertensive patients who were undergoing three to four weeks of rehabilitation due to an underlying cardiovascular disease. The sample consisted of 48 patients who were divided into a control group (without hydrotherapy) and a treatment group (Kneipp water treatments). The usual basic therapy for cardiac rehabilitation was continued in both groups. Blood pressure was measured using a measuring device at rest, under ergometer stress and by means of a 24-hour long-term measurement. Weight loss and medication intake were also recorded.

During treatment, blood pressure fell significantly in both groups. Nevertheless, it was noticeable that the drop in blood pressure was significantly greater in the treatment group than in the control group. After the end of the treatment, the group with the water applications showed an improvement in overall performance. It was therefore possible to reduce the amount of medication taken by these patients.

In conclusion, the study proves that Kneipp treatments are an additional, helpful measure for patients with hypertension .