Mud is magic! Mud moisturizes, soothes and heals! In all spas, thermal mud is one of the most popular and sought-after wellness practices. It is, in fact, a true natural therapy with documented benefits for the health and well-being of our body.

What is thermal mud therapy?

Mud therapy is a natural therapy that uses thermal mud in the form of compresses on the skin, masks and sometimes baths. The whole process is managed by specialists in qualified spas. The mud used in these treatments is mainly composed of a solid and a liquid component.

The solid part is made up of inorganic elements such as clay and organic materials, i.e. microflora (diatoms, bacteria, algae) and microfauna present in humus. The liquid component, on the other hand, is largely composed of mineral or thermal water. This mixture is matured so that the clay absorbs minerals and nutrients from the water.

"Mud wraps are a popular therapeutic method used to treat rheumatic conditions such as arthritis, arthrosis, inflammatory rheumatism and other joint and soft tissue disorders. The main properties of sludge are: analgesic and anti-inflammatory effect (sludge contains minerals, trace elements and organic substances that can have an anti-inflammatory and analgesic effect on the body. These substances can penetrate the skin and help to reduce inflammation in joints and tissues) and the heat factor effect on the body (the sludge is heated to 40-42 degrees C.) Thus, the increased temperature in the affected area helps to dilate blood vessels and improve blood flow, which can help to reduce inflammation and pain. The heat generated by the mud can stimulate the circulation of blood and lymph, making it easier to flush toxins out of the body and reducing swelling and pain specific to rheumatic conditions," says Dr. Mihaela Sușcă, specialist in rehabilitation, physical medicine and balneology within the Ensana Health Spa Hotels.

Mud applications are in the form of total or partial mud packs, depending on contraindications, mud baths or mud pads in the treatment of gynecological diseases.

How does mud work to relieve pain and inflammation in rheumatic conditions?

In this case, the specialist informs us that "Sludge contributes significantly to the relief of pain and inflammation in rheumatic diseases through a combination of physical, chemical and biological effects. Specifically, these are manifested through several mechanisms acting on the affected area and the whole body. In this respect, there are ways in which mud helps to reduce pain and inflammation in rheumatic conditions: the thermal effect, the anti-inflammatory analgesic properties of mud, stimulation of the immune system, detoxification and elimination of toxins, muscle relaxation.".

What types of rheumatic conditions are mud packs recommended for?

The most common rheumatic conditions are arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, gout, systemic lupus erythematosus, bursitis and tendonitis, fibromyalgia, psoriatic arthritis.

Are there any contraindications for mud packs?

As in all situations, the specialist warns that there are also a number of contraindications, emphasizing the general ones:

• Acute or sub-acute illnesses, febrile conditions and any acute (or acute chronic) infectious or contagious diseases;
• Leukemias and malignant tumors (spa treatment is allowed only after a minimum of 5 years after tumor removal, rigorous annual check-up and recent medical consultation confirming no theoretical risk of tumor recurrence);
• Haemophilia, severe anemias, thrombophlebitis, deep vein thrombosis, skin ulceration, venereal diseases;
• Recent myocardial infarction, recent stroke, uncontrolled hypertension, NYHA III/IV heart failure;
• Pregnancy, hyperthyroidism (Basedow's disease), epilepsy, major mental illness, drug addiction.

How important is mud temperature in the effectiveness of the therapy and at what stage of the disease are mud packs most effective?

"The temperature of the mud is an essential factor in the effectiveness of the therapy, having a significant impact on blood circulation processes, reducing inflammation, relieving pain and relaxing muscles. Applying mud at the appropriate temperature can maximize therapeutic benefits, but must be done carefully to avoid the risks of irritation or burning.", explains the balneologist.

Can there be any risks during or after mud treatment?

Of course! The medical specialist warns that for a correct application of mud treatment there are a few conditions of correct use to prevent any immediate side effects:

• The right temperature: sludge should be applied at a controlled temperature, generally between 40°C and 45°C, to maximize benefits and prevent risks;
• Duration of treatment: it is important that the duration of the treatment is adapted to the patient's condition and is not too long to avoid overstraining the body (15-30 min);
• Doctor's advice: patients with cardiovascular, respiratory, diabetic or other health problems should consult a doctor before starting mud treatment;
• Proper hydration: it is essential that the patient is well hydrated before and after treatment to prevent dehydration;
• Hygiene: sludge should be applied in a clean and hygienic environment to prevent the risk of infection.

Ensana Health Spa Hotels.