Similar in procedure to the carbon dioxide bath (See Hydrotherapy: Carbon Dioxide Bath), the individual thermal bubble bath is a bath of thermal water at a temperature of between 32-34°C, which small ‘fizzy’ bubbles of normal air (as opposed to CO2) are pumped into. The treatment lasts 15-20 minutes, during which you lie relaxed as small air bubbles gently caress and coat the skin. The treatment is ideal for general relaxation, as there is a pleasant soothing feeling of general tickling from the bubbles. During the treatment, the heat from the thermal water helps the blood vessels dilate, reducing blood pressure and relaxing the muscles. The treatment in some of our spa locations is followed by a 15-minute full body dry wrap (See Other: Dry Wrap).

For this treatment we use sulphide mineral water with a concentration of 150-250mg hydrogen sulphide at a temperature of37-38° C. The duration of the treatment is 10 minutes. This mineral bath is extremely effective in absorbing hydrogen sulphide into the skin, which has beneficial effects on long-standing chronic skin diseases. The treatment concentrates on the lower extremities, particularly on the legs and feet, where the skin is much thicker than on the rest of the body. After the bath are a dry wrap and a rest for 10-15 minutes, according to the guest’s wishes. It is not recommended either before or after the treatment to have a bath in normal water, only a shower.

For this treatment we use sulphide mineral water with a concentration of 150-250mg hydrogen sulphide at a temperature of 37-38° C. The duration of the treatment is 10 minutes. This mineral bath is extremely effective in absorbing hydrogen sulphide into the skin, which has beneficial effects on long-standing chronic skin diseases. The treatment concentrates on the upper extremities, particularly on the hands, where the skin is much thicker than on the rest of the body. After the bath are a dry wrap and a rest for 10-15 minutes, according to the guest’s wishes. It is not recommended either before or after the treatment to have a bath in normal water, only a shower.

In the Mineral Bath Tub treatment, the bath is filled with natural mineral water with a concentration of 25mg, 50mg or 100mg sulphide to one litre of water. The temperature of the mineral bath is between 36 - 38°C. (Higher temperatures are not recommended, as they increase the release of hydrogen sulphide into the air). The natural thermal mineral water in Smrdáky is world famous for its effective treatment of skin diseases and arthritic conditions. The duration of the treatment and concentration of the sulphide is based upon a doctor's prescription following a medical consultation.

For this treatment we use sulphide mineral water with a concentration of 150-250mg hydrogen sulphide and at a temperature of 37-38° C. The duration of the treatment is 10 minutes. This treatment is prescribed for chronic skin diseases on the face or scalp. The sulphide mineral water is manually poured onto the head, where the skin is much greasier than on other parts of body. The external application of the water onto these areas helps break down the grease in the hair.

If you are staying with us on a traditional or therapeutic spa package you will, upon arrival, be booked in for a check up with one of our spa doctors. The aim of this initial consultation is to check your health complaints, health history, that the treatments prescribed are safe and effective. If necessary the doctor may prescribe additional examinations and/or laboratory tests.

If you are staying with us for one week or longer on a traditional or therapeutic spa stay, it is likely that you will receive a weekly control check up with one of our spa doctors. The purpose of this consultation is to ensure that your treatment plan is having the best results possible and that you are getting the best out of our spa services. In some cases the treatment plan might be adjusted and additional treatments advised, depending on your progress.

At the end of your stay our spa doctors will conduct a final consultation to ensure that the treatments prescribed have gone according to plan. This is also an opportunity for the doctor to give you the necessary medical and lifestyle advice to help continue the improvement in your health once you leave.

Throughout your stay our doctors are on hand to give you the necessary advice and guidance to ensure that you make the most from our spa facilities and treatments. They will also be able to answer questions that you may have and can give you important advice on our effective preventative therapies and improving your health in general. Some of our signature treatments, because of their unique effects, require a doctor’s consultation prior to booking. Your health spa or hotel reception will be able to give you further information on this and how you can book an appointment to see a doctor.

Dermatitis conditions on the skin can be treated externally with a variety of creams and ointments. The application of ointments, creams and tinctures, which contain active ingredients, (for example: salicylic acid, urea, cignolin, tar, menthol) can help remove scales, lubricate the skin, reduce tenderness, restore flexibility and eliminate itching. The general rule follows that during the night greasy creams (ointments) are applied for better and longer effect and during day light creams are preferred. These daytime light creams require more applications, between 3-4 times per day.

Diseases and irritation in the scalp are typical symptoms of some skin diseases (e.g. psoriasis). As the hair covers the skin on the scalp it manages to block out the beneficial effects of sunlight or UV radiation.  To treat such conditions of the scalp we use oil containing salicylic acid, tar shampoo and cignolin tincture.

This treatment is specifically prescribed to remove blackheads (medically known as open comedones) using a warm wet gauze and an infrared lamp to release the clogged pores. A pressing motion with sterile gauze from the side to middle part of the pore is carried out to extrude blackheads. After this, the skin is disinfected with 3 % boric acid, a lotion containing alcohol, or alternatively a tincture of iodine.

This treatment involves stepping alternately into footbaths that are filled with water of contrasting temperatures. First your feet are placed into a footbath of water between 40-42°C, actively stepping for one to two minutes, then into a cold water footbath at a temperature between 10-16°C, again actively stepping for 15-30 seconds. This whole cycle is repeated between 6 and 10 times, always finishing in the cold footbath. This treatment has a positive impact on headaches, migraines, circulation disorders (cold feet) and early-stage varicose veins. It also helps improve the condition of ankle ligaments and leg joints, and is an appropriate treatment for injuries to feet and lower limbs.

‘Scottish spray’ is a stimulating and extremely vigorous treatment. Whilst standing in a swimsuit or naked, a pressurised jet of water (3 atm) is applied from a distance of 3-4 metres. For the first 30 seconds, the temperature is set at 38-42°C, followed by a spray at 16-18°C for 5-10 seconds. This procedure is repeated several times, first around the area of the upper and lower extremities, then on the torso and belly, following the course of the large intestine, from the front and back. The treatment ends with a cold spray. This treatment improves the immune system, circulation and metabolism, and leaves one with a rejuvenated feeling.

This treatment is taken in a hot bath at a temperature of 35-37°C and a relaxing massage with currents of whirling water. The effects are improved blood circulation and a loosening of muscle and joint stiffness. Aroma oils and essences can be added to the water to enhance the experience. The treatment can last between 10-20 minutes.

The treatment is given in a bath at a temperature of 35-37°C. A powerful, pressurised (0.5 – 2.0 atm) jet of water is released through a hose underwater and directed manually by the therapist to the main muscle groups from a distance of between 10 and 15 cm and at an angle, in strokes. By varying the distance and angle, it is possible to change the intensity of the water jet pressure on the body. The aim of this deep massage is to release stiffness in the muscles and connective tissues and to partially release the joints. It is also probably one of the most effective spa treatments for relaxation available.

The individual bubble bath is similar to the individual thermal bubble bath (See Balneotherapy: Individual Thermal Bubble Bath). However, instead of using thermal water, ordinary water that has been heated to a temperature of between 32-34°C is used. Small ‘fizzy’ bubbles of air are then pumped into this. The treatment lasts between 10- 20 minutes, during which you lie relaxed as small air bubbles gently caress and coat the skin. The treatment is ideal for general relaxation, as there is a pleasant soothing feeling of general tickling caused by the bubbles. The treatment in some of our spa locations is followed by a full body 15-minute dry wrap (See Other: Dry Wrap).

The Complete Oil Bath has both a moisturizing effect and also retains water in the skin for a considerable time after the treatment.  According to the status and type of skin dermatitis there are two possibilities. In the first oil additives with higher dose of emulsifiers are added to the water, these disperse particles of oil evenly throughout the bath. In the second the oil is added in a smaller proportion and therefore only remains on the surface of the bath.  At the end of the treatment the oil covers the whole surface of dry skin, locking in the moisture.

The lymph system is crucial in draining toxins and bacteria from the body. All forms of lymph massage are known to be effective in improving the function of the lymphatic system. This particular massage only concentrates on the upper extremities and is conducted in water using a very light pressure combined with soft pumping movements to stimulate the lymph nodes and vessels. This is a different treatment to Lymph Drainage which is carried out by a physiotherapist for serious health conditions, whereas this special Lymph Massage for the upper extremities can be carried out by a trained therapist.

The Permanganate Bath has a disinfecting and soothing effect on irritated skin and is especially suitable for guests suffering from skin diseases or irritated skin, particularly as a result of an allergic reaction or excessive sunbathing. The bath is prepared by dissolving the crystals in a small dish, then the concentrated solution is added to the bath water according to the doctor’s prescription. The time and temperature of the bath is also prescribed by the doctor, ranging from between10 – 15 minutes at a temperature of between 35-38 °C.

The bath with ingredients is a bath filled with normal water into which is added salt, corn flakes, bran for their moisturizing and soothing effect. The varieties of ingredients depend according to type of the skin inflammation - acute or chronic. This will be prescribed by the doctor after a consultation, as will the temperature of the bath.

This treatment is experienced in an individual thermal bath of 35 - 37 °C and in combination with the currents of swirling water to give a relaxing massage. The effects are improved blood circulation and a release of muscle and joint stiffness. 

This treatment is designed to gentle massage the lower extremities with whirling water. The whirlpool bath has a suitable effect for the treatment of conditions such as trauma, inflammation and nervous disorders. It helps to improve the blood circulation, activate the skin receptors and relieve muscle and joint stiffness. Also, it is a good overall regeneration treatment. 

The whirlpool bath applied to the upper extremities is a device designed to massage the entire upper extremities. The whirlpool bath is effective as the treatment for conditions such as trauma, inflammation, nervous disorders, and excessive physical exertion and after athletic performance.

Therapeutic exercise is a crucial part of the recovery process and instrumental to any rehabilitation program. This therapy is led by an expert physiotherapist, normally for a group of guests with a similar diagnostic profile. An example of our classes includes therapeutic exercise for spine or joint conditions, osteoporosis, obesity, vascular conditions of the brain and exercise for cardiac patients. The therapy uses exercises designed to relax overloaded muscles, strengthen weak muscle groups, improve joint, spinal and pelvic mobilisation,and strengthen static/dynamic functions necessary for correct body positioning. An inseparable part of these classes are breathing exercises, in addition to training for speed, agility, endurance, balance, strength and overall fitness.

A qualified physiotherapist conducts all individual therapeutic exercise sessions as prescribed by a doctor. These classes are designed to maintain or restore physical mobility as well as develop functional capabilities. The therapy includes active and passive movements as well as mobilisation and manipulation. Other methods may include visualisation, active muscle contraction, active assisted movements and free active movement. An inseparable part of these classes are breathing exercises in addition to training for balance, strength and flexibility.

After the doctor’s examination and diagnosis, a specific area of the body is prescribed for massage.  The aim is to stimulate blood circulation in this specific area, release muscle tension and improve the mobility of the connective tissue and joint.

This uses a very specialised massage technique, targeting nerve connections and endings. The massage is carried out in one of four areas: the head and neck, the back, the chest or the pelvis. Using the thumb and forefinger, the masseur presses firmly along short or long, direct or curved lines. This massage action is very particular and not only promotes healing in the area being massaged, but through a ‘reflex’ effect it promotes healing in the entire body, which is why it is sometimes referred to as a ‘reflex’ massage. In addition, it has been found to be very effective in relieving stress, fatigue, sleep and digestive disorders and high blood pressure. The massage is a very sensitive body intervention that can have certain unexpected side effects, such as short breath, stomach pain, the lowering of blood pressure and sudden fatigue. As a result, prescription is given with care and under the guidance of a doctor.

The main principal of reflexology is based on the fact that in the human body there are more than 70,000  nerve endings located in the foot. These nerve endings connect to internal and external organs throughout the body, through energy channels. This massage specifically targets the hands and feet, stimulating the nerve endings to produce a general healing effect. In particular, it has a positive ‘reflex’ effect on the blood circulatory and lymphatic systems, the immune system, and regulates the functioning of the endocrine glands. The massage also has relaxing and pain-alleviation effects particularly effective for back pain and headaches. It can also help with cases of anxiety, insomnia and digestive system disorders.

This is a manual technique used for the treatment of joint ‘blockages’ that cause pain and restrict movement and may also cause reflex changes such as aches and spasms. In most cases, these are in the so-called ‘joint’ sections of the spine. The purpose of the treatment is the release of the segment and the restoration of a freely-moving joint. First of all, the problem area is overstressed, and then the ‘blockage’ is released through a small quick movement with mild force. This technique is continued using short repetitive movements, starting from a marginal to a neutral position, without impact but permanent overstress. This results in a mitigation of the ‘blockage’ or even in its direct elimination. This manipulation should be carried out by a specially-trained and licensed doctor. Mobilisation techniques, on the other hand, such as slower muscle pulling and release, stretching and others, are normally carried out by a qualified physiotherapist.

Ultrasound uses sounds of high frequency and intensity that are converted to mechanical and heat energy. 30% of this mechanical energy results in a type of micro-massage in the tissues of the body that are targeted, resulting in heat generation. The treatment is administered by placing the head of the device in continuous or pulse application into the skin, which has been given a coating of paraffin oil or conductive gel. The depth of impact varies between 2-6 cm and the effect stimulates the molecules, causing subsequent chemical reactions. It also improves blood circulation as well as nutrition of the tissues with an analgesic and antispastic effect. The site of application needs to be prescribed by a doctor, but it is generally an area that is in pain or in need of relief.

In this treatment, different electrical pads at a medium frequency are placed onto the body together with a small vacuum. The effect is one of a micro-massage on the damaged tissue. Depending on the pre-set frequency, the muscles can be stimulated to a so-called muscle gymnastic condition, or alternatively produce relaxation in the muscle tone to have an analgesic effect. The treatment has two advantages: firstly, it reduces pain, and secondly, the micro-massage improves the circulation and flow of oxygen to the tissue, resulting in a healing effect.

This treatment uses a mixture of electric currents, (both galvanic and impulse), which have an inhibitory or facilitatory effect, depending on the frequency, intensity and other parameters. The result is both pain relief and an improvement in circulation. In general, the treatment is prescribed for conditions such as sprains, bruises, oedemas, joint and spine deterioration and disc degeneration.

This treatment is conducted while lying down on a bed or couch, while the treated body part is exposed to an artificial magnetic field (magnetic blanket, contact treatment head or magnetic cylinder). By creating a weak pulsating magnetic field around the body, it has the effect of recharging the magnetic stimulation of the cells. This results in normalising the metabolism and regeneration of cells, thereby supporting the healing process. The treatment also has contraindications, such as implanted cardio stimulators (pacemakers), fungal diseases, tumours and pregnancy.

In this treatment, the guest lies on a bed. Around the body or limb is placed a magnetic cylinder. A pulsing magnetic field is released from the cylinder and acts as a ‘charger’ to stimulate the cells of the body. The effect of the treatment is a stabilization of the metabolism and improved cell regeneration, supporting the overall healing processes in the body.

This is an electrotherapeutic device that uses the following: a galvanic current, pulsed direct currents (DC), bipolar midrange currents, transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) currents, midrange myo-stimulation and a classic quadruple interference with or without a vector. This multipurpose device with electrotherapeutic amperage is programmed according to the sensitivity and condition of the guest. Its effects are depend on the modulation frequency  prescribed, these include toning, de-toning, analgesic, hyperemic. The effect of the treatment helps to speed up the metabolism in tissues - accelerating the healing of sprains and swelling and stimulating the nerve performance.

The mud used at our hotels comes from the famous Hévíz thermal spring in Hungary, and from sediment collected by the hot springs of the river Vág in Piešťany in Slovakia. The therapeutic mud has a similar effect to that of the medicinal waters. The most characteristic feature of mud is its good heat storage and heat dissipation capacity. Warmth dilates the blood vessels and accelerates the metabolism. As a consequence, the treatment eases chronic inflammations. Warmth also relaxes the muscles and tendons and eases cramps. Of the mineral components of mud, iodine and bromine have a loosening effect, calcium, bromine and magnesium have a relaxing effect and sulphur boosts local metabolism. The temperature of the mud pack is usually 38-42°C, but the doctor can specify a lower temperature. The mud pack is applied on the body areas and joints prescribed by the doctor. The body is then wrapped into an insulating sheet. After 20 minutes, the mud is washed off, which at some hotels can be followed by a 15-minute dry body pack, but at least 15 minutes of rest is definitely recommended. The treatment eases the swelling of joints, muscular tension, and improves the nutrient supply of cartilages, connective tissue and spinal discs. Furthermore, it also strengthens the body’s anti-inflammatory and immune processes. The mud can also be applied partially (see: Partial mud pack). In Sovata, Romania, the mud is extracted from Bear Lake (Lacu Ursu) (see Balneotherapy: Salt bath) and is used in the same way. In addition to musculoskeletal disorders, the salty mud is also suitable for the treatment of certain skin disorders and gynecological diseases (see: Gynecological mud/peat therapy treatment).

A maximum of four local areas are permitted without a doctor’s prescription. The mud pack results in a reduction of local swelling around the joints as well as an easing of muscle tension. It also strengthens anti-inflammatory activity and immune processes within the body, improving the function of the cartilage, connective tissues and spinal discs.

Paraffin packs take advantage of the heat-conducting effectiveness of paraffin as it hardens at a temperature of approximately 55°C. There are several different types of application methods, such as soaking a part of the body in paraffin, brushing paraffin onto parts of the body in layers, or applying a thin sheet of paraffin onto the problematic area. The local application of heat relaxes the muscles, causing spasm release, easing chronic pain and supporting the healing and nutrition of the tissues. It also has sedative and immunobiological features.

Paraffin packs take advantage of the heat conduction effectiveness of paraffin as it hardens at a temperature of approximately 55 °C. There are several different types of application methods, such as soaking a part of the body in paraffin, brushing paraffin onto parts of the body in layers or applying a thin sheet of paraffin onto the problematic area.The local application of the heat relaxes the muscles, causes spasm release, eases chronic pain and supports the healing and nutrition of the tissues. It also has sedative and immune biological features.The treatment in some of our spa locations is followed by dry wrap , immediately after the application of paraffin,  which increases the effect and comfort of the whole treatment

Using the same rays that are contained in sunlight, the body is exposed either partially or fully. U.V. rays can be used for different medical effects. Applied with care, U.V. light can improve the body’s immune system, muscle performance and the formation of red blood cells. U.V. light is also used in the treatment of many skin disorders, such as psoriasis and eczema, particularly in our health spa in Smrdáky, Slovakia, which specializes in treating conditions of this type.

Solariums use solar radiation which can have positive effect on skin diseases and dermatitis. The length of the tanning session is based according to your skin type ranging from I – IV. In this treatment we combine hydrogen sulfide water with the solarium. The hydrogen sulfide water is sprayed onto the skin during the tanning session in the solarium. The hydrogen sulfide water and mineral salts have a positive effect on the treatment process in the solarium, promoting the healing of skin diseases.

The abbreviation ‘SUP’ stands for Selective Ultra Phototherapy in English, in German-speaking countries the letters ‘SFT’ are used meaning - Selective Foto Therapie, but both refer to the same treatment. During the treatment a high-pressure mercury vapor lamp is used with the spectrum UVA and UVB (305-325 nm). This has a significant therapeutic effect on psoriasis, because it inhibits excessive rapid cell division. The procedure is administered by three stands located in the triangle, on each stand a lamp, the lamp distance 90 cm. The dosage is prescribed according to skin type and condition and starts at half a minute. During the procedure the guest slowly rotates to ensure the full application of the skin. Special protective glasses are necessary and any spots on the skin are covered with a zinc paste. This treatment is very effective for inveterate psoriasis. It is not permitted to combine UV radiation with natural sun exposure as this significantly increases the risk of sunburn and skin cancer.

In this treatment a narrow spectrum of UV radiation (UVA 340-370nm) is used. Compared to other tanning devices this UV spectrum has the lowest negative long-term consequences regarding skin aging or cancer.  The source of the UV is from tubes with a photoluminescence layer, which emits the required UVA wavelength. The tubes are in a panel and during the procedure the person being treated rotates in front of it to ensure a total application of the UV onto the skin. During the treatment it is necessary to use special protective glasses. Any skin spots are covered with a zinc paste.

This treatment uses a form of UV radiation spectrum (UVB 311 nm), which is the most effective for the treatment of psoriasis and other skin diseases. It also has the smallest number of negative long-term consequences compared to other UV tanning devices with regards to aging or skin cancer.  The UV comes from small short tubes with a photoluminescence layer, which emit the desired wavelength. These are placed in a comb, to allow a comfortable and effective application of the UV onto scalp of the head, which is normally hard to treat, since with normal UV treatments the hair blocks the light.

This form of applying UV radiation spectrum is centered on UVB 311 nm, which is the most effective for the treatment of psoriasis and other skin diseases. It also has the fewest negative long-term risks compared to other UV tanning devices with respect to aging or skin cancer. The treatment uses short tubes with a photoluminescence layer, which emit the desired wavelength. The tubes are in a panel and during the procedure the person being treated rotates in front of it to ensure a total application of the UV onto the skin. During the treatment it is necessary to use special protective glasses. Any skin spots are covered with a zinc paste.

This form applying UV radiation spectrum is centered on UVB 311 nm, which is the most effective for the treatment of psoriasis and other skin diseases. It also has the smallest negative long-term risks of UV tanning devices with respect to aging or skin cancer.  It uses short tubes with a photoluminescence layer, which exude the desired wavelength. They are placed in a rack, allowing a single current application on the palms and feet, where the skin is much thicker than on the rest of body. Because of the thickness if the skin the treatment requires a more intensive application of radiation.  

It consists of a arrangement of 3 panels placed aroun the guest. This form of applying UVB narrow radiation is centered on UVB 311 nm, which is the most effective spectrum for the treatment of psoriasis and other skin diseases. It also has the fewest negative long-term risks compared to other UV tanning devices with respect to aging or skin cancer. The treatment uses short tubes with a photoluminescence layer, which emit the desired wavelength. It is prescribed for serious conditions that require higher doses. During the procedure, it is enough if the guest turns just1 time to ensure application to the entire skin. During the treatment it is necessary to use special protective glasses. Any skin spots are covered with a zinc paste.

Local skin cryotherapy is performed using liquid nitrogen. From a container that is holding the liquid nitrogen, the liquid nitrogen is applied with a cotton bud and placed directly to the skin. The time which the liquid nitrogen is placed onto the skin depends on the size and depth of the skin lesions but can be from 20 – 30 seconds or more.