Gastein is effective – scientifically proven

It isn’t only therapy participants who are talking about the benefits of the Gastein Cure...

... science has also confirmed the positive effects. At the Gastein Research Institute, scientific studies are conducted in order to research the therapy benefits. Why, in what form and how effective is Gastein therapy, and for what physical complaints in particular. These are the questions which the team at the Research Institute, under the direction of Univ.-Prof. Dr. Markus Ritter, are investigating.

Paracelsus Medical University Salzburg

The Gastein Research Institute is part of Paracelsus Medical University Salzburg. The university is partially supported by public funding from the city and province of Salzburg. Every year, some 50 medical students receive professional training at the location in Salzburg – a study program that is accredited across Europe.

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Clinical studies of the "Gastein Cure"

At the Gastein Research Institute, independent clinical studies of Gastein therapy treatments are conducted. Goals include greater understanding, quality assurance and ongoing development of Gastein’s health programs. The primary focus is on balneology, physical therapy, research into treatment and rehabilitation, as well as pain research.

Browse a compilation of studies

What is balneology?

Balneology involves research into the benefits of bathing, natural hot springs, gasses and peloids such as peat. Balneological treatments are some of the oldest forms of therapy, many of which have been around since the 16th century.

Fields of research at the institute

Needless to say, the Research Institute’s main focus is on the therapeutic benefits of radon in all forms of application, including the Healing Gallery, thermal water as well as vapor baths. The primary disorders being investigated are rheumatic complaints, ankylosing spondylitis and arthrosis affecting the joints. Fundamental research is being done to examine the effects of radon on cellular culture, the immune system and cytokines. Cytokines are protein structures in the body that control important functions within cells, such as growth and cell repair. Findings to-date include the fact that greater quantities of TGF-Beta Cytokine are released in the course of radon therapy. In turn, this spurs the cells’ own internal repair systems, the immune system kicks back into high gear and other anti-inflammatory messenger substances are produced.

The Research Institute is part of the Institute for Physiology and Pathophysiology, dealing with the origins and development of chronically altered physical functions. This ensures comprehensive research into the therapies which are offered in Gastein.

Independence is fiercely protected

Research Fund

Gastein Research Institute has its own research fund. This awards grants to independent research institutions for projects that focus on radon. The evaluation and approval of projects occurs in cooperation with international experts who are independent of the Gastein Research Institute itself.

Cooperation

In addition, the Gastein Research Institute cooperates closely with a variety of health-focused entities as well as international universities including Salzburger Landeskliniken, Paris Lodron University Salzburg, University Clinic Graz, Friedrich Alexander University Erlangen and the International University of Restorative Medicine in Moscow.