The thermal cure is a medical treatment which uses the waters of natural mineral springs and their derived products (gas, mud, poultice, etc.) in different treatments, with the aim of treating or relieving certain illnesses. We explain to you in which cases a spa treatment can help you feel better.
Specific benefits of each thermal water
Natural mineral waters are classified according to their composition (bicarbonate, sulfur, sulfate, chloride-sodium water, etc.) and their temperature. Below 20°C, we speak of cold or hypothermal waters.
Waters between 35 and 50°C are considered thermal waters or mesothermal.
Hyperthermal waters have a temperature above 50°C.
In theory, each thermal water provides specific benefits depending on its mineralization. But you should know that certain thermal waters with very different compositions can have similar therapeutic effects.
The benefits of chlorinated thermal waters
Chlorinated water or saline water is loaded with calcium chloride. These waters are indicated in:
- the treatment of developmental disorders in children (in particularenuresis) ;
- the treatment of rheumatism;
- the treatment of certain neurological disorders.
The Pyrenees and the Jura are the two regions where you can find spas with chlorinated water.
The benefits of bicarbonated thermal waters
These waters are rich in bicarbonate. Those that contain sodium are used for the treatment of digestive conditions. They have the effect of facilitating digestion, calming digestive spasms and accelerating the healing of the intestinal mucosa.
Those that are rich in calcium are known for their anti-inflammatory, soothing and healing properties for the skin. They are indicated to treat acne or the after-effects of burns.
The thermal spas which offer bicarbonate waters are mainly located in the Massif Central (Vichy thermal baths).
The benefits of sulfated thermal waters
These waters contain sulfur in the form of sulfates. Calcium sulfate waters (rich in calcium) are indicated to treat urinary conditions and metabolic diseases, in particular kidney and digestive problems.
Mixed sulfate waters (rich in calcium and magnesium) are recommended for certain dermatological problems (eczema for example).
Sulfated thermal waters can also be used in neurology and phlebology (venous problems).
They are found in the north of the Pyrenees, the Alps and the Vosges (Contrexéville).
The benefits of sulphurized thermal waters
Sulfur waters are rich in hydrogen sulfide and sulfur, known for their antibacterial properties. They are used to treat respiratory tract conditions (asthma, rhinitis, bronchitis, otitis).
Sulfur is also good for skin and cartilage weakened by rheumatism. The spa resorts of Bagnères-de-Luchon and Cauterets, in the Pyrenees, offer sulfur water.
Is the spa treatment reimbursed?
To be reimbursed by Health Insurance, a spa treatment must be prescribed by a doctor as part of the treatment of an illness recognized for reimbursement (among 12 “therapeutic orientations”).
In addition to cures, spas also offer complementary, shorter programs specific to certain illnesses, which are not covered by Health Insurance.
Each year, nearly 600,000 patients benefit from a thermal treatment in France.
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