Radon helps fight fibromyalgia pain

New investigation shows pain relief by more than 30 percent

02/18/2015

The diagnosis fibromyalgia describes a chronic disease that manifests itself in severe muscle and connective tissue pain. In addition, patients complain of pain when pressure is applied to certain pain points, so-called tender points. Fatigue and sometimes depressive moods often accompany the condition. So far, fibromyalgia is considered incurable. The only treatment option for sufferers is usually a drug treatment for pain relief. However, only 30 to 40 percent of patients respond. For sufferers who are not on medication or who do not want to put up with the side effects of analgesics, there is now new hope: new research shows that treatment series with radon and heat can lead to significant pain relief.

The therapy is carried out as part of a cure in former mine tunnels. Of course, many hundred meters inside the mountain radon emerges from the rock. In order to use it therapeutically, those affected drive by train to the therapy stations. Patients take the inert gas through the skin and lungs in small amounts for several one-hour sessions. In the body, it stimulates cell repair and has an immune-stabilizing and anti-inflammatory effect. „Above all, it inhibits the transmission of painkillers, resulting in significant pain reduction“, reports Univ.-Doz. Dr. Bertram Hölzl, radon expert and medical director of the Gasteiner Heilstollen. In addition, there is a tropical climate in the interior of the mountain, which leads to a slight overheating of the body. Under these conditions, the body core temperature rises and blood circulation is promoted. As a result, muscles relax and the organism absorbs radon much better.

A new observational study now confirms these effects. Fibromyalgia patients were asked about pain, fatigue, and depressed mood before, during, and after treatment. The mean extent of pain relief was 27 immediately after treatment and 31% after 4 months. Up to 12 months after the cure, the value rose again to 20 percent. „This coincides with our experience“, explains Dr. hölzl. „Many fibromyalgia patients use radon heat therapy once a year and benefit from a significant reduction in the need for medication and a significant improvement in the feeling of exhaustion until the next treatment.“ Many sufferers need after a two-week course some months even no more tablets and feel noticeably fitter.

In addition, people with fibromyalgia should take measures such as physical therapy, sports therapy, holistic movement therapy, exercises for gentle muscle building and relaxation procedures. Cures with Radonbehandlungsserien are recognized by health insurance companies, the extent of the cost must be approved by the health insurance. Otherwise, for example, an application in Gasteiner Heilstollen costs about 60 euros. (Pm)