Objective: A large share of rheumatism patients who are treated by rheumatologists use unconventional therapies additionally. What is the frequency in patients with ankylosing spondylitis who present for treatment at a radon spa? Patients: 75 patients with ankylosing spondylitis presenting for treatment at the Gasteiner Heilstollen Hospital agreed to participate in the study (6 refused). Design: In an open interview a research assistant asked the patients to name all interventions which they have used for the treatment of ankylosing spondylitis. Results: Unconventional therapies (beside treatment at the Gasteiner Heilstollen) were used by 39 patients. Most frequently cited were acupuncture (15×), diet (8×), herbal therapy (7×), and homeopathy (6×). In total 40 different forms of unconventional therapies were mentioned. All patients claimed to have used at least two conventional therapies. Conclusion: Patients presenting for treatment at a radon spa claim to have used conventional therapies more frequently than unconventional forms of treatment.
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