Clinical Research Directory
Browse clinical research sites, groups, and studies.
Effect of Hot Spring Therapy on Cognitive Function Recovery During Altitude Training
Sponsor: Macao Polytechnic University
Summary
This randomized controlled trial aims to investigate the effects of hot spring bath therapy on cognitive function recovery, cerebral hemodynamics, and athletic performance in athletes undergoing altitude training. Participants will be randomly assigned to either a hot spring intervention group, a hot water control group, or a blank control group. The hot spring intervention group receives hot spring baths (38°C, 20 minutes) combined with altitude training; the hot water control group receives hot water baths (38°C, 20 minutes) combined with altitude training; and the blank control group receives standard recovery procedures combined with altitude training. Primary outcome measures include cognitive performance assessments (Stroop test, psychomotor vigilance test) and cerebral hemodynamic indicators (functional near-infrared spectroscopy, transcranial Doppler ultrasound). Secondary outcomes included exercise capacity (maximal oxygen uptake, triathlon performance, 500-meter test), blood lactate, and hematological parameters (white blood cells, neutrophils, platelets). These findings may provide evidence for non-pharmacological interventions to enhance cognitive recovery and brain adaptation during altitude training.
Official title: A Randomized Controlled Trial Investigating the Effects of Balneotherapy on Cognitive Performance, Cerebral Hemodynamics, and Exercise Capacity in Healthy Adults Undergoing Simulated Altitude Training
Key Details
Gender
All
Age Range
11 Years - 17 Years
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Enrollment
27
Start Date
2026-05-25
Completion Date
2026-06-25
Last Updated
2026-05-27
Healthy Volunteers
Yes
Conditions
Interventions
Control Group：Natural Recovery
Control group participants will undergo the same altitude training protocol (altitude 1600 meters) for 4 weeks. After each training session, participants will receive standard recovery procedures, including 20 minutes of passive rest in a thermoneutral environment (room temperature 24°C), supplemented with mild hydration and self-selected stretching. No hydrothermal intervention will be provided.
Hot water immersion group
The hot water immersion group will undergo a 4-week altitude training at 1600 meters above sea level. Subjects will receive a 20-minute hot water immersion (daily tap water, 38°C±1°C) in a standardized indoor hot spring facility. The immersion protocol includes whole-body immersion up to the neck for 20 minutes, followed by a 10-minute rest before leaving the facility. Three times per week.
hot spring immersion group
The hot spring immersion group will undergo a 4-week high-altitude training at an altitude of 1600 meters. Subjects will receive a 20-minute hot spring therapy (natural hot spring water, 38°C ± 1°C) in a standardized indoor hot spring facility. The immersion protocol includes whole-body immersion to the neck for 20 minutes, followed by a 10-minute rest before leaving the facility. Three times per week.
Locations (1)
Macao Polytechnic University
Macao, China