Thermotherapy
Heat therapy to feel better
Have you been suffering from muscle pain for some time, have you had a recent injury or do you have inflammatory skin problems? Then thermotherapy is the treatment you need to help relieve your symptoms. This type of treatment uses the application of heat to relax the muscles and combat pain in the affected areas.
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Thermotherapy: treatment with a healthy therapeutic effect
Have you ever heard about the positive effects of thermotherapy, also known as heat therapy? On this page you are going to find the most important information about thermotherapy, its efficacy, the wide variety of treatments and where to book your perfect vacation program to enjoy this treatment.
What is thermotherapy?
Thermotherapy derives from the words "thermo" as heat and "therapy" as treatment. Therefore, thermotherapy is a therapeutic treatment that uses heat or different temperatures. It can be used to improve a variety of health problems, from simple relaxation to deep treatment of disease.
The word "thermal" is also used in reference to hot springs and as such, thermotherapy often includes bathing in hot springs or thermal spas. For more information on this variation of thermal treatment, see our page dedicated to medical hydrology.
On the other hand, thermotherapy and another element of our thermal programs is cold treatment, known as cryotherapy. The interaction between cold and heat can have many health benefits. This concept for example can be found in the baths and water jets of the Kneipp therapy.
Indications: In what type of diseases is thermotherapy used?
Thermotherapy brings great benefits. In addition to improving the state of health and general well-being, it is especially indicated to treat the following conditions:
- Muscle pain
- Muscle stiffening
- Osteoarthritis
- Soft tissue rheumatic diseases
- Lower back pain
- Recovery of mobility after operations
- Injuries of the musculoskeletal system
- Stress
How do heat treatments work?
During heat treatments, either thermal energy/heat is applied to specific locations on the body, or heat is extracted (through cold).
When the body heats up, metabolism increases. This in turn increases blood circulation, especially in areas of the body where blood circulation is not so good. This has benefits for the skin, connective tissues and muscles, loosening and relaxing them. Muscle soreness is reduced and healing can be accelerated. Renal activity is also increased and the immune system is strengthened.
Increasing body temperature by just one degree increases metabolism by 7%. This is also the reason why heat therapy should not be excessive. If the metabolism continues to increase, this can become too taxing on the circulation.
The increase in heat creates a kind of "artificial fever" in the body, which activates the immune system's defenses and promotes healing. However, the treatment must be carried out in a correct and controlled manner to ensure that the effect remains positive.
When the body is well warmed up, it is much easier to move around and do sports. Therefore, thermal therapy is also directly related to physiotherapy. Hot thermal baths are also highly recommended because the water pressure and the reduction of gravity have a positive effect on the body.
Cryotherapy or cold treatments are the opposite of heat therapy.
Cold treatments usually last a very short time. The brief application of cold on the body mainly affects muscle tension and also causes a narrowing of the blood vessels. This can also relax cramps to some extent.
Cold also has an analgesic effect. This is related to the fact that nerves transmit fewer pain signals when cold and that small blood vessels (capillaries) are not as permeable and retain less water. Precisely for these reasons, we quickly cool burns on the stove or grill with cold water or ice.
Finally, cold temperatures also reduce metabolism, so certain metabolic disorders such as gout can be treated with cold.
Cryotherapy is the extreme use of cold, with ice or cold gases at temperatures as low as -110°C. It is used in both medical procedures and spa therapies and has become a favorite therapy of many for its invigorating and energizing, yet relaxing effect. Cryotherapy is also a part of physiotherapy.
Cryotherapy is also a part of physiotherapy.
What are the most common thermotherapy treatments?
- Thermal baths: bath in hot thermal water, temperature mostly between 34°C and 38°C.
- Thalassotherapy baths: therapy bath in seawater (salt water), different temperatures.
- Aromatherapy baths, Kneipp bath: complete bath with herbs, essential oils or bath salts.
- Mud therapy baths: mud bath diluted with medicinal water (usually 46°C - does not feel so hot).
- Mud or peat mineral mud masks with hot mud (mainly for the back, shoulders and knees).
- Paraffin treatments - Hand bath in warm wax.
- Hot stone massages - Massage with hot volcanic stones, which retain heat.
- Hot compression - Massage with the help of a hot wet towel, pressed on muscles.
- Sauna
- Steam room or Hammam
- Hot air blower
The most beautiful destinations for thermotherapy
Slovakia is Europe's hidden gem for spa getaways, boasting over 1,300 healing mineral springs scattered throughout the country. With a rich history dating back to Roman times, Slovakia's rejuvenating appeal is heightened by its stunning landscapes, castles, fortresses, and thermal baths. Offering exceptional value for money, Slovakia welcomes visitors with warm hospitality and comfort, providing a wide range of therapy treatments in its top-notch spas.
Germany is a premier destination for health-conscious travelers, boasting over 350 recognized spa towns and resorts. Expert staff offer effective detox and fitness treatments while picturesque locations cater to cycling, hiking, and leisurely strolls. Rich in history and culture, Germany's spa tradition dates back to Roman times, with kings convening in the 18th and 19th centuries. From romantic weekend getaways to intensive wellness retreats, Germany's diverse spa offerings exceed expectations.
Spain offers numerous spa resorts and natural wonders perfect for thermal therapy, particularly in the sunny Costa del Sol with its Mediterranean climate. Andalusia boasts many health-promoting spa resorts and thermal baths. From the inviting thermal baths and hot springs to the excellent wellness resorts in the Canary Islands, Spain provides a blend of rich culture, history, and culinary delights. Enjoy Mediterranean cuisine, explore breathtaking landscapes, and indulge in various leisure activities. Your stay in Spain promises an unforgettable experience, combining wellness and cultural immersion in a therapeutic paradise.
FAQ - Everything you want to know about thermotherapy
Wherever there are hot springs and thermal baths, you can also find thermotherapy offers. If you are a bit flexible as to your destination, you can always find interesting and affordable offers.
The following are our best-rated thermotherapy hotels:
- Terme Zrece - Hotel Vital - Rating: 4.8
- Hotel Saliter Hof - Rating: 4.7
- Santé Royale Hotel & Gesundheitsresort Bad Brambach - Rating: 4.5
- Reitenberger Medical Spa - Rating: 4.3
The most popular time to take a heat therapy vacation is during fall and winter. When it is less warm, hot baths, heat packs and saunas bring great benefits to the body. Especially popular are the days between Christmas and New Year's Eve, especially in traditional German and Eastern European spas, where you can enjoy a festive and cheerful holiday atmosphere.