The salt bath is a signature treatment in our Health Spa Resort of Sovata, Romania. The water is pumped from a natural salt pond – Bear Lake – that lies just below the spa. Because of its extreme salt content and the floating effect it has on the body, Bear Lake is often referred to as the ‘Dead Sea’ of Transylvania. In summer, the salt traps the heat, maintaining its temperature at a pleasant 30°C, making it a wonderful, relaxing, floating outdoor spa treatment. This water is renowned for its healing effects for mobility disorders, skin diseases and certain gynaecology conditions. It is also an effective relaxation therapy.

Our individual salt bath is a signature treatment in our Health Spa Resort of Sovata, Romania. The water is pumped from a natural salt pond – the Bear Lake that lies just below the spa. Because of its extreme salt content and the floating effect it has on the body, Bear Lake is often referred to as the ‘dead sea’ of Transylvania (See: Salt Bath). In the spa itself, this water is heated to between 32-36°C and pumped into individual salt baths. Here the bathing time is between 15-20 minutes. The treatment is considered an effective therapy for chronic rheumatic and nervous system disorders, certain chronic skin complaints and even gynaecological problems. Because of the high salt content in the water, your body floats easily, making it feel light and relaxed – an effective de-stressing experience.

This treatment is a natural vaginal medical irrigation. During treatment, 8-10 liters of 38-39 C degrees salt water are circulated through the vagina, using a disposable tube for each treatment. The effects of the treatment include decreased inflammation, an antibacterial effect, and an improvement of the pH levels in the vagina and regeneration of the vaginal mucus.

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.

If you have requested a gynaecological check up, our nurse will refer you to our gynaecological specialist.  The aim of this examination is to check your health complaints, health history and that the treatments which will be prescribed are safe and effective. If necessary the doctor may prescribe additional examinations and/or laboratory tests.

If you have requested a gynaecological check up, our nurse will refer you to our gynaecological specialist.  The aim of this examination is to check your health complaints, health history and that the treatments which will be prescribed are safe and effective. We comlete each check up with ultrasound diagnostic. If necessary the doctor may prescribe additional examinations and/or laboratory tests.

According to the doctor's prescription, remove dirt with lukewarm water spray from the eardrum.

This treatment is similar in principal to the stepping bath (See: Stepping Bath) and is based on the Kneipp principle of hot and cold water on the body. The difference between the two treatments is in the stepping bath: you physically step into baths of alternating temperatures, whereas with our alternating temperature bath you sit comfortably with your feet in a basin whilst a gentle jet of water is sprayed onto the feet at a warm temperature with intervals of cold water. This procedure is repeated for the wrists and hands in the arm bath with water. This treatment improves the immune system, circulation and metabolism and leaves one with a rejuvenated feeling.

The carbon dioxide bath is an individual bath of normal water at a temperature between 32-34°C into which small ‘fizzy’ bubbles of carbon dioxide gas are pumped. The same carbon dioxide used in the food industry is pumped into the water through a tube. At our spa resort of Marienbad, natural gas is used, making this a signature treatment (See Balneotherapy: Individual Mineral Bath). The treatment can last between 10-20 minutes, during which you lie relaxed as small carbon bubbles caress and coat your skin while the gas is absorbed into the body. Medically, the carbon strongly congests the skin with carbon dioxide, thereby slowing down heart activity, reducing blood pressure and stress on the heart and improving blood circulation. This treatment is ideal for general relaxation, as there is a pleasant soothing feeling of general tickling from the carbon bubbles. The treatment in some of our spa locations is followed by a full body 15-minute dry wrap (See Other: Dry Wrap).

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.

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 is a specialised massage normally conducted by a physiotherapist which is intended to assist the lymphatic system, particularly in cases where there is or has been an irregularity. The massage involves light rhythmical movements of the hand, applied to the lymph nodes and the lymphatic system. It is this action that stimulates lymph node activity to cleanse the body and assist the flow of lymphatic fluid to remove toxins, debris, cell waste and dead particles. The massage is usually divided into the extremities of the body, with each extremity generally taking half an hour to massage.

Water rehabilitation, perhaps better known as ‘physiotherapy in water’ or ‘hydrokinesistherapy’ is conducted in water at a temperature of approximately 33 °C. In most of our spas the water used will be natural thermal water and the exercises lead by a qualified physiotherapist. Because of the buoyancy, resistance and chemical effects of the water, it is very effective for persons with degenerative diseases of weight-carrying joints in addition to post operative rehabilitation. Water rehabilitation is either conducted in groups with guests of a similar diagnostic profile or even individually.

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.

Autogen training is one of the most well-founded and most researched relaxation techniques, and works by strengthening the natural self-healing mechanisms of the body. This is the only “mind and body” technique whose origins are the results of medical research. Autogen training enables controlling stress by teaching relaxation of the autonomic nervous system. The “switch” to a relaxed state can be achieved through well-performed practice; this means that we are able to regulate our physical and psychological self according to our needs. It is recommended for those who would like to learn to consciously relax their bodies, calming their mental state and general well-being.

This treatment is for the alleviation of lymph oedema using a special mechanical lymph massage developed by Dr. Emil Vodder (a biologist from Denmark).  
Symptoms mostly affect the lower extremities where gravitation is the strongest and include: swollen legs, distended pain, cellulite, restless leg syndrome and heavy legs. The treatment involves gentle pumping, circular movements to increase the lymph flow, helping to transport the non-necessary fluids into the blood circulation.
The result is that the swelling decreases, the heavy leg sensation disappears and the person feels lighter and slimmer. It also helps treat cellulite.
During the treatment the lymph drainage applicator is applied to a certain part of the body (arm, leg, and/or belly). The machine pumps up and down, applying an alternating pressure.
Because of hygienic reasons a long sleeved shirt or trousers are advised.
The lymph drainage is prescribed for a maximum of 10 times, the duration of the treatment is between 30-40 minutes. 1-2 treatments a week are recommended.

Transcutaneous Electric Neuro Stimulation     This uses the principle that pain and pain impulses in the body can be dispersed through stimulation of the nervous system with an electrical current. This electrical current is either applied in impulses in short bursts, in waves, or in a continuous stream. A pad is placed upon the site of the problematic area, and the current passes through the skin to the nerve. This treatment is especially effective for conditions that require pain relief, particularly on the back or neck. Specific examples include spinal diseases, headaches and post-traumatic pain.

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.

Water and a gentle electrical current are the components of this treatment, carried out in a bath at a temperature of 34°C whilst electricity is passed through the body. The electric current has a tranquillising effect for cases of agitated nerves. This makes the treatment suitable for all conditions of pain in the motor organs, in particular degenerative diseases, inflammatory arthritis and joint problems. It also has a positive effect on improving the metabolism of the tissues, the shrinking of oedemas and reducing pain and spasticity.

This treatment is especially beneficial for rheumatoid arthritis. The forearms and lower limbs are placed into water trays at a temperature of 34°C. Water and a gentle electrical current are the components of this treatment, and an electric current is passed through these particular body parts. Because only the limbs of the body are immersed in water, the electric current in the four-cell bath can be given at a stronger intensity that the full galvanic bath (See: Galvanic Bath). The treatment also has the benefit of improving circulation.

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.

The high frequency waves emitted by the device are converted into heat in the body. They warm the affected tissue, and improve circulation and blood flow to the tissue. The treatment reduces inflammation, increases hyperaemia, and has a regenerating effect, which beneficially relieves the uncomfortable symptoms associated with inflammation. In all cases, we offer this treatment to our guests according to doctor's prescription.

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.

Peat is used in Marienbad, and mud from the salt lake in Sovata for gynaecological treatments. The peat and mud act as a form of localised heat therapy, and are applied in the form of a tampon. Not only is the treatment effective for inflammatory conditions and rehabilitation after gynaecological operations, but is prescribed as a treatment for menstruation and menopause disorders. The salt mud from Sovata is renowned for successfully treating both primary and secondary infertility, especially hypoplasia uteri, as well as sterility caused by ovarian insufficiency and the occlusion of the oviduct.

Inhalation with medicine has the same effect and uses the same principles as salt inhalation or thermal water inhalation (See: Salt Inhalation), but has a stronger effect. A combination of water, sometimes mineral water and medicine, are inhaled through a tube. During this inhalation process, the medicine is inhaled directly into the respiratory system and lungs, where it helps to dissolve mucous and has a cleansing reaction. It is effective in the treatment of chronic respiratory conditions, allergies or the after-effects of a cold or respiratory infection.

Salt pulverized in mineral water or medicinal water is inhaled through a tube into the mouth. In Sovata, Romania, natural salt water is used. During the inhalation process, tiny salt particles are inhaled into the respiratory system and lungs. Since salt has an antibacterial effect, the salt particles help dissolve mucous and have a cleansing reaction in the respiratory system. Since salt is a natural substance, this treatment naturally is entirely based on natural resources. It is effective in the treatment of chronic respiratory conditions, allergies or the after-effects of a cold or respiratory infection.

Oxygen is inhaled through an intranasal tube into the nose whilst you lie comfortably in a reclining chair. The air being inhaled is enriched with about 40-60% oxygen at a reasonable level of humidity. An increased supply of oxygen into the body enhances the immune system, improves heart activity and the elasticity of the lungs, helps the condition and efficiency of the mind and is excellent for overall health. Sometimes a vitamin drink is also offered as part of the treatment.