Vacationers travel the globe in search of pleasant retreats that offer fitness and rejuvenation. From mud baths to sweat lodges, health-inspired getaways include the hollowed mountains of the American west. Here, radon spas occupy old mineral mines for underground relaxation.
Bedrock throughout much of the U.S. and the world often contains small amounts of uranium. As these deposits decay, they release radon gas. Spas have been built in some of these areas to take advantage of the higher radiation levels.
Some people visit radon spas as an alternative treatment, in hopes of finding relief from the pain of arthritis, bursitis, rheumatism and other chronic conditions.
Researchers continue to explore the positive benefits of low levels of radiation exposure for treating painful degenerative joint and spine diseases.
To learn more, visit the American Nuclear Society Web site at www.ans.org/pi/np/spas.
Montana's Free Enterprise Radon Mine offers a modern example of how cultures seek the curative powers of radiation. |
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