[An evaluation of the effect of the sauna on the clinical, laboratory and psychological indices in rheumatoid arthritis].

The direct effect of sauna procedures was assessed in 196 patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in minimal or moderate activity stage. Three temperature and humidity regimens were tested. The optimal conditions occurred at 80 +/- 5 degrees C and relative air humidity 10-20%. Sauna produced a positive effect on locomotor system, psychoemotional status, alleviated pain. Clinico-biochemical and immunological indices of the peripheral blood underwent insignificant transient shifts.