Study on the effect of hydrotherapy on peripheral neuropathy

Bernhard Uehleke et al.

September 2008

Healing & thermal therapy

Kneipp therapy

Charité Universitätsmedizin, Immanuel-Krankenhaus and DABIO Gesellschaft für Auftragsforschung were interested in the effects of Kneipp hydrotherapy on patients with peripheral neuropathy (PNP). With the help of a prospective study, they tested the effectiveness and feasibility of hydrotherapeutic self-treatment for PNP by having test subjects apply at least two of four treatments (knee cast, cold foot bath, alternating foot bath, wet socks) daily for eight weeks.

The data from 27 patients were analyzed and a significant decrease in dysesthesia and improvement in hypesthesia was observed after completion of the therapy. Pain sensation and paresis remained unchanged. Acute relief of symptoms was recorded after 30-62% of treatments, with acute exacerbations occurring in only 5-9% of cases.

The results suggest that hydrotherapy is effective under realistic everyday conditions, but further studies are required.

The most important information on the study at a glance

Indications: Peripheral neuropathy
Institution: Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Immanuel-Krankenhaus, Dep. for Natural Healing, Berlin, Germany
Title: Study on the effect of hydrotherapy on peripheral neuropathy
Brief description: The study shows that Kneipp hydrotherapy significantly alleviates dysesthesia and improves hypesthesia in peripheral neuropathy.
Original title: A prospective "Study by Correspondance" on the effects of Kneipp hydrotherapy in patients with complaints due to peripheral neuropathy
Link to the study: https://www.zora.uzh.ch/id/eprint/13526/