Natural Wool Fabrics in Physiotherapy

Prevention of heat loss, thermal insulation and heat treatment play an important role in physiotherapy. For example, peripheral vascular disease associated with metabolic diseases (e.g., diabetes, arteriosclerosis), arthritis, paresis and paralysis of peripheral nerves all require interventions involving heat therapy. Wool products such as garment linings, shoulder-straps, knee pads and lumber pads exert a very positive effect on the above mentioned circulatory disturbances. Moreover, due to its unique physical and chemical properties, knitwear increases the pain threshold and reduces muscle tension; knitwear can be used both before and after exercise to prolong the therapeutic effect. Physiotherapy sessions for little children on wool mattresses also evoke additional sensory impulses thus improving sensorimotor outcomes. Extending the heat effect on the skin resulting from physical procedures such as massage, heat therapy and ultrasounds is regarded as one of the main theraputic advantages. Last but not least, there are also some easily perceivable economic benefits.