Efficacy of balneotherapy on pain, function, and sleep quality in patients with chronic low-back pain: a prospective observational study

Abstract

The aim of this prospective observational study was to evaluate the e cacy of a cycle of sulphatearsenical-ferruginous mud-bath therapy on pain, function and sleep quality in patients with Chronic Low Back Pain (CLBP). One hundred twenty three patients treated at Levico Spa Center (Italy) with 12 daily local mud packs and generalized thermal baths, were included in this experience. General medical assessments were performed before starting the therapy, at the end of the treatment and three months later. Pain intensity and stiffness were measured by a 0 to 10 cm Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), the range of mobility of the lumbar spine was evaluated using the Schober test and functional disability by the Roland-Morris Disability Questionnaire (RMDI). The Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) was used to assess the sleep quality. The VAS score for pain and stiffness showed a signi cant reduction (p<0.0001) at the end of the treatment persisting for 3 months of follow-up. Similarly, a signi cant improvement was found for the Schober test and RMDQ. Finally, we showed a signi cant decrease of PSQI score at the end of the cycle of mud-bath and at 3 months of follow-up. The Spearman analysis showed a signi cant positive correlation between the score of PSQI and VAS pain, VAS stiffness and RMDQ. In conclusion, this preliminary study con rms the bene cial and longterm e cacy of balneotherapy on pain and function and, for the rst one, shows the positive effect on quality of sleep in patients with CLBP treated with a cycle of mud-bath therapy.