Influence of Hydrotherapy on Fatigue Symptomatology - a Narrative Review

Background Fatigue in the context of a chronic fatigue syndrome can be accompanied by significant limitations for activity and participation. Hydrotherapeutic measures can have a positive effect on the autonomic nervous system. The aim of this paper is therefore to present the effect of such measures on fatigue symptomatology.Materials and Methods A literature search was performed in three electronic databases for randomized controlled trials, which investigated hydrotherapy in patients. Relevant data were extracted and qualitatively analyzed.Results 137 studies were found, of which eight were included in the review. All of them analyzed the effect of full baths partly combined with other therapies on fatigue and other parameters such as pain. Patients with hydrotherapy showed in all studies significantly more improvement in the measured parameters, than patients without.Conclusion Hydrotherapy is a safe and easy to apply procedure and seems to have a positive effect on fatigue symptoms. Further large studies - also with objectifiable parameters - are necessary to give a final and reliable judgement on the effectiveness.

Automated summary

Hydrotherapy has a positive effect on relieving fatigue symptoms in patients with chronic fatigue syndrome, and it is easy to apply and safe to use.