Application of Pressure Algometry In Balneology for Evaluation of Physical Therapeutic Modalities and Drag Effects

SUMMARY

Objectives: The value of pressure algometry [PA] in evaluation of treatment results will be assessed based upon several controlled double-blind trials.

Findings: Four controlled studies using PA to assess the efficacy of sulphur-baths and two controlled investigations on the efficacy of radon-baths are reviewed. Some treatments induced a stimulation of physiological functions and of general well being. Other trials have found bath-additives of humieic acids and bitumino-sulfonate ineffective. Concerning physical medicine, new results of studies with cryotherapy are presented. A non-sedative myotonolytic agent [tolperisone hydrochloride] which does not have the usual side effects of centrally active muscle relaxants was effective.

Conclusions: Algometry Is a suitable method to evaluate the efficacy of different treatments of musculoskeletal pain. By PA reproducible and reliable quantitative data on muscle tenderness may be obtained even in trials involving relatively small numbers of patients [ca. 20–50 patients]. Algometry was used for the assessment of deep muscle tenderness. Tenderness is an accompanying symptom of inflammation and reflex muscle spasm and correlates with functional limitations and pain on movement. Algometry was useful in distinguishing effective from ineffective therapies.

KEYWORDS:

• Algometry
• sulphur
• radon
• tolperisone
• balneology