Brain - Derived Neurotrophic Factor - a Marker for the Balneal Treatment of Chronic Low Back Pain?

Up till now, to our knowledge, there are no studies evaluating serum Brain - Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) levels in patients with degenerative chronic low back pain under rehabilitation treatment. BDNF is a neuroprotein associated with neuropathic pain and represents an important mediator of the effects of physical exercise. Complex balneal treatment with hot Techirghiol sapropelic mud reduces pain and increases serum levels of BDNF in these patients.