Effectiveness of cold mud packs on venous disorders and quality of life in patients with chronic venous insufficiency

Abstract

Background Venous diseases are very common in Germany and therefore of high socio-medical relevance. About 10 million people in Germany suffer from an advanced stage of this disease. While the positive effects of physical therapy on the quality of life in patients with venous diseases are confirmed, there is no controlled study for the effectiveness of cold mud packs on venous disorders and quality of life in patients with chronic venous insufficiency. Objectives To assess whether cold mud packs have a positive impact on venous disorders and quality of life of patients with chronic venous insufficiency and to enquire for relevant undesirable side effects. Methods Outpatients with venous disorders were randomized and divided into a study and control group. Patients in the control group retained their previous therapy, whereas patients in the study group additionally obtained a total of six cold mud (clay) packs, two per week, lasting 1 h each. Effectiveness of treatment was evaluated by changes in the circumference of ankle and calf, the transcutaneous partial oxygen pressure, light reflection rheography testing and the subjective sensation of stasis and pain in the lower limb on a five-point analogue scale. Quality of life was evaluated by a questionnaire, the Medical Outcome Short-Form General Health Survey (SF 36). All measures were taken three times, before and directly after the treatment period and three month upon its completion. Results Subjective and objective measures improved similarly. Light reflection rheography shows enhancement in venous functioning up to 25% after treatment by cold mud packs. Subjective measures of pain in the lower limb and sensation of stasis reduced up to 70%. There were no relevant side effects. Conclusions The application of cold mud packs seems to be a helpful therapy for patients with chronic venous insufficiency who want to ease their disorders and better their quality of live and moreover low in side effects.