Appropriateness and efficacy of Spa therapy for musculoskeletal disorders. A Delphi method consensus initiative among experts in Italy

Authors: Paoloni M , Bernetti A , Brignoli O , Coclite D , Fraioli A , Masiero S , Napoletano A , Quirino N , Rengo F , Ruosi C , Viora U , Vitale M , Santilli V

Affiliations:

Source: Ann Ist Super Sanita. 2017 Jan-Mar;53(1):70-76

DOI: 10.4415/ANN_17_01_13 Publication date: 2017 Jan E-Publication date: Not specified Availability: full text Copyright: Not specified

Language: English Countries: Not specified Location: Not specified Correspondence address: Not specified

Keywords

Article abstract

OBJECTIVE:

The aim of the study was to identify the main aspects concerning appropriateness and efficacy of Spa therapy for musculoskeletal pathologies.

METHODS:

A committee of 8 experts from Italian universities, public hospitals, territorial services, research institutes and patient associations was set up. Clinicians from Italian medical centers specialized in rheumatology, rehabilitation and thermal medicine took part in a Delphi process aimed at obtaining consensus statements among the participants.

RESULTS:

Large consensus was obtained for statements grouped under the following main themes: treatment indications; choice of treatment modality and treatment efficacy.

CONCLUSIONS:

The experts developed a number of consensus statements which may be used as a practical reference to guide the choice of physicians to treat musculoskeletal diseases with Spa therapy.

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