Water-soluble sapropel extract gel for external use

The aim is to develop methodology for treatment and diagnostics, verification and assessment of therapeutically effects of sapropel on musculoskeletal diseases in a clinical study of sapropel applications for improving lymph and blood circulation in joints. The composition of water-soluble sapropel extract gel contains the sapropel extract in a liquid form, sodium salt of carboxymethyl cellulose, glycerol solution, ethanol water solution, structure stabilizer, eucalyptus oil and water. The treatment effects assessed using digital thermography, measurements by dynamometer, goniometer and Nine Hole Peg test, at two points – before the first procedure and before the discharge from the hospital. Additionally, the patients will surveyed using questionnaire. Sapropel extract gel and method of preparation are ready and suitable for external use in medicine, skin care and cosmetics. Effects on hand pain analysed using visual analogue scale and Boston Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Questionnaire score. Nine Hole Peg test and measurement of muscle strength and determination of the amplitude of hand movements can be applied. Our tests demonstrate the efficacy of sapropel applications for patients with carpal tunnel syndrome and can be achieved only by ten-application course. The resulting gel has skin moisturizing, anti-inflammatory and regeneration-enhancing properties; it can be used in medicine and skincare, as well as for the preparation of other cosmetic products. Musculoskeletal disorders have constantly the highest prevalence of all occupational diseases in Latvia in recent years and they are very prevalent in general population with carpal tunnel being the leading single cause for musculoskeletal disorders. Our tests show that there are beneficial effects of sapropel applications in patients with carpal tunnel syndrome. The research was co-financed by project "Analysis of characteristics of medical sapropel and its usage for medical purposes and elaboration of industrial extraction methods", No.1.1.1.1/16/A/165.