-IBIS-1.7.6-
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musculoskeletal system
Low back pain
Integrative Therapies

Home Care

Before you attempt to alleviate any back pain on your own, make sure you understand the cause.
Three major sources of back pain are:

1. Sciatica, which is an irriation of the sciatic nerves. The pain usually radiates down the leg.

2. Disk herniation or bulging of the disk material in between the vertebrae, which presses on the nerves.

3. Muscle spasm.

There are many other sources of back pain such as arthritis, tumors, or even pain that originates in the kidneys or abdomen. If you have long-lasting sharp pain, numbness in your legs or feet, or involuntary urination or bowel movements, consult a physician immediately.

For all cases of long-term or repeated espisodes of back pain, pay special attention to the following:

1. Posture – Maintain straight posture while sitting and standing. Avoid slumping.

2. Proper lifting – Bend at the knees and not at the waist. High heels often create a strain on the back.

3. Being overweight, especially when concentrated on the abdomen, also causes back strain.

4. Lack of exercise and a sedentary lifestyle lead to weak muscles. Insufficient stretching before working or lifting can lead to muscle strain.

5. Regular bowel movements are necessary for elimination of waste from the body. Constipation can aggravate back pain.

Add fiber to your diet and increase the intake of fluids to at least 8 glasses per day. If you need further information on constipation, refer to the article on that topic.


THE FOLLOWING SUPPLEMENTS ARE USED, AND YOU CAN TAKE THEM UNTIL SYMPTOMS IMPROVE:

1. Vitamin C helps in the formation of collagen fibers. Use it in combination with bioflavo-noids – 1,000 milligrams, 3 to 8 times a day. If you experience loose bowel movements, reduce the dose. Use it in this amount for 2 to 3 weeks or for extended use only under a physician's supervision. People suffering from kidney stones should not take more than 2,000 milligrams of Vitamin C per day.

2. Calcium – 800 milligrams per day.

3. Magnesium – 400 milligrams per day.

4. Bromelain – 2 capsules of 250 milligrams 3 times a day between meals. This is a natural anti-inflammatory agent


NOW, LETS LOOK AT THE HERBS USED FOR LOW BACK PAIN:

• A useful combination for muscle spasm and pain is made from equal parts of Hops, Black Cohosh, and Valerian. As a tea, you can add 1 teaspoon of each dried herb to 2 cups of boiling water. Steep for 20 minutes and drink 2 to 4 cups a day.

You can use the same herbs in a tincture, which is a liquid herbal extract. Take 1 teaspoon 2 to 4 times a day.


PHYSICAL THERAPY MEASURES FOR LOW BACK PAIN INCLUDE:

1. Epsom salt bath – To relax the muscles, use 1 cup of salts in a tub of warm to hot water and take a 15- to 25-minute bath.

2. For the first 24 hours after an injury or onset of pain, use an ice pack for 10 to 20 minutes with 10 minutes rest between applications.

3. After a day or two if stiffness or tight muscles are present, apply alternating hot and cold packs. Use 15 minutes of hot followed by 5 minutes of cold. Repeat a total of 3 times ending with cold. Do this once or twice a day.

4. Stretching exercises or Yoga are very important in treating a painful back and for prevent–ing return of symptoms. Consult a chiropractor or a physical therapist for specific exercises for your problem.

5. Ultrasound treatments and acupuncture can also be effective for this condition. Look for a licensed practitioner in your area.


HOMEOPATHY
From the following homeopathic medicines choose the one that best matches your symptoms. Dissolve 3 pellets under the tongue.

• Arnica 30C: Taken as soon as possible after a strain or any other injury – 3 times a day or more often for the first 48 hours.

• Rhus tox 12C: For back pain and stiffness in the morning that is relieved after moving around. Taken 2 times a day.

• Ruta graveolens 12C: Is especially indicated when ligaments are strained. Taken 3 times a day.

Note: A wide range of homeopathic medicines can be helpful for individuals with both acute and chronic low back pain. Consultation with a health care professional trained in homeopathic prescribing will usually be the best way to select the correct medicine.

Clinic

Footnotes

BarShalom R, Soileau J. (eds.) Natural Health Hotline. Beaverton, OR: Integrative Medical Arts, 1991-1999.