Modern methods of physiotherapy in Comprehensive Thermal Treatment Assessed by patients

Abstract

Introduction: In rehabilitation, the symbol of the 21st century is the presence of new technologies related to the virtual world (VR), biofeedback, and rehabilitation robots. These trends are also observed in thermal treatment. The complexity of this form of treatment introduces therapies based on modern devices for balance exercises, body stability, gait re-education with biofeedback, and virtual reality. How do patients rate this new quality in the thermal station? Aim: The study aimed to collect the subjective opinions of patients undergoing treatment in a thermal and rehabilitation hospital on therapy using modern devices for balance exercises, stability with biofeedback, and virtual reality. Material and methods: The study included a group of 184 patients staying at the 21st Military Thermal and Rehabilitation Hospital in Busko-Zdrój as part of benef i ts reimbursed by the National Health Fund and as part of treatment and prophylactic stays with anti-stress training for soldiers returning from missions abroad fi nanced by the Minister of National Defense. Apart from traditional thermal treatment methods, the subjects performed an exercise program on stabilometric and dynamographic platforms and two types of treadmills during the treatment. Results: In the respondents’ opinion, therapy based on devices using modern technologies (virtual reality and biofeedback) was interesting, patient-friendly, and increased their motivation to exercise. The surveyed soldiers in all age groups and civilians aged 41-60 expressed their willingness to re-use the therapy on devices using modern technologies. The results were analyzed statistically. Conclusions: Thermal treatment in the 21st century is gaining a new quality, in which devices based on modern technologies of computer games, virtual reality, and biofeedback unquestionably participate in the therapy of patients. Patients, regardless of their age or type of stay, in a subjective opinion expressed a positive opinion about the therapy on devices using modern technologies.