Alternative physiotherapy in ancient Egypt

Alternative physiotherapy in ancient Egypt

Alternative medical procedures were commonly practiced. Physiotherapy was depicted in a relief tomb in Saqqara showing massaging of a shoulder and a knee. Heliotherapy (exposure to ultraviolet sunrays) was mentioned in Ebers Papyrus for pain relief

“To relieve any painful part ……. The body is anointed and exposed to the sun”.

The Kalup Papyrus describes treatment by mud and clay

“Thou shalt do for it: rub her feet and legs with a mat (mud and clay) until she is well”.

Hydrotherapy (treatment by water) was also practiced. A sanatorium near Dendara temple has chambers equipped with basins. Water was poured over a statue, then flowed down a canal into the basins.