One of the most common diseases of the spine is lumbar osteochondrosis. Treatment with folk remedies can relieve symptoms, but to get the maximum effect, you should not abandon traditional methods of therapy.
At the first signs of pathology, it is necessary to consult a doctor and follow his recommendations in the future.
disease symptoms
A problem like osteochondrosis, which was once considered the fate of the elderly, now affects even the young. Particularly vulnerable are the lumbar and sacral spine areas. If you ignore the manifestations of the disease for a long time, a person risks losing the ability to move normally.
You should pay attention to these symptoms:
- aching, sharp pain in the lower back, which may radiate to the buttocks and abdominal region;
- the appearance of sloping;
- unsteady gait;
- numbness in the legs;
- phlebeurism;
- spasms of the lower extremities;
- deterioration of mobility, especially when turning and leaning.
It is these manifestations that are characteristic of lumbar osteochondrosis. They are made worse by heavy lifting, long periods of sitting or walking.
If you do not start treatment, in the future, pinching of nerve endings may occur, which leads to partial or complete paralysis of the legs.
Causes
The prevalence of lumbar osteochondrosis is explained by the fact that each person faces the triggering factors of the disease on a daily basis.
The reasons for the development of the problem can be:
- prolonged static load on the lower back;
- passive lifestyle;
- incorrect posture;
- improper lifting and carrying of weights;
- frequent stress;
- disturbances of metabolic processes;
- circulatory problems;
- vitamin and mineral deficiency;
- trauma;
- obesity;
- hypothermia;
- hormonal disturbances;
- frequent inclines and turns;
- uncomfortable bed;
- congenital pathologies of the spine;
- diseases of neighboring organs;
- age-related changes;
- heredity.
There is a huge load on the lower back. Any physical exercise and weight lifting affect the condition of this area. That is why loaders, builders, weight lifters, representatives of professions that require long walks or standing are most often sick with osteochondrosis. In office workers, not only the lower back suffers, but the sacrum as well. Without protection against influencing factors, the effectiveness of the treatment will be many times lower.
Possible complications
At the initial stage of osteochondrosis, a person does not have any special problems, with the exception of temporary discomfort. Gradually, the destruction of the intervertebral discs and the fibrous ring of the vertebra occurs, which causes an increase in symptoms and the development of complications. As there is a close relationship between the sacral and lumbar regions with neighboring organs, the development of various diseases is not excluded.
First, they suffer:
- gastrointestinal tract;
- pelvic organs;
- liver;
- kidneys;
- nervous and vascular systems.
In addition, there are a number of negative consequences related to the spine itself:
- generalized osteochondrosis;
- pinching of nerve roots and blood vessels;
- neuritis;
- intervertebral hernia;
- leg paralysis;
- sciatic nerve irritation;
- involuntary urination or emptying;
- osteophyte development.
To prevent severe pain and the development of disability, prompt treatment of osteochondrosis is necessary.
The lumbosacral zone is distinguished by the presence of the so-called cauda equina, that is, a bundle of nerve roots. If they are compressed, a person is at risk of becoming disabled.
Treatment with traditional methods
It is more reasonable to see a doctor if you suspect osteochondrosis to ensure the diagnosis is correct, determine the degree of progression of the disease, and obtain professional advice about its further treatment.
Traditional therapies include:
- medicinal effect. Novocaine blocks are used to stop attacks of pain, especially when a nerve is compressed. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, warming ointments, muscle relaxants, vitamin and mineral complexes are also prescribed. Glucocorticosteroids, condoprotectants and drugs that stimulate blood circulation and metabolic processes in the tissues may also be prescribed to accelerate recovery;
- Physiotherapy. These are the types of electrical, magnetic, laser, pneumatic and other stimulation of the problematic spine. It also includes reflexology techniques, mud therapy, salt baths and more;
- Massage and orthopedics. The patient receives a massage therapy course with the aim of accelerating tissue repair and relieving stress. Manual therapy can also be performed to align posture and lengthen the spine. Apply "dry" traction and water;
- exercise therapy. There is a set of exercises that aim to develop and strengthen the lower back. With intense pain, control by the coach is necessary, and in the early stages of the disease and for prevention, gymnastics can be performed at home;
- Surgical intervention. In advanced cases with pinched nerve roots, surgical treatment is necessary. Surgical intervention consists of opening the problematic vertebra, releasing the compressed tissues and, if necessary, installing a prosthesis to compensate for the wear of the intervertebral disc.
As auxiliary home methods, the use of folk remedies is allowed.
Osteochondrosis of the lumbar - treatment with folk remedies
In some cases, osteochondrosis can be defeated with folk remedies. It is recommended to consult a doctor in advance, as some prescriptions may be contraindicated.
The essence of popular methods is that with their help it is possible to achieve the following effects:
- eliminate pain;
- relieve stress;
- strengthen the body;
- stimulate blood circulation;
- restore the column;
- eliminate inflammation.
The following recipes are considered the most popular in home treatment:
- Compresses from the infusion of burdock leaves. Help relieve pain and stop the inflammatory process;
- Dandelion root decoction. A good anti-inflammatory agent, it strengthens the body;
- Baths with a decoction of chamomile and knotweed herb. Relax and relieve inflammation;
- Ointments based on beeswax and propolis, unrefined sunflower oil, honey and a decoction of St. John's wort. They help not only with osteochondrosis, but also with various joint problems;
- Alcohol tincture of white lilac flowers. Warms the back and relieves the symptoms of the disease;
- Alcohol tincture with horseradish root. Excellent heats, relieves inflammation, swelling and pain;
- Arnica, green walnuts and a decoction of the bulb. From these components, a mixture is prepared for oral administration before meals. Relieves inflammation, stimulates regenerative processes in the body.
The presence of complications may require adjustments to the treatment program, so unauthorized selection of prescriptions is highly undesirable.
Preventive actions
In order not to require surgical treatment of osteochondrosis and, even better, to completely prevent this disease, it is recommended to carry out preventive measures. They aim to strengthen the spine and protect it from injury.
Prevention tips:
- Avoid strenuous exercise, especially weight lifting;
- Wear an orthopedic belt or corset for heavy loads or as directed by a physician to support your back muscles and protect against intervertebral disc prolapse.
- Be aware of your own weight, as obesity is one of the causes of diseases of the musculoskeletal system;
- Do not sit in an uncomfortable position, observe your posture, get up periodically and warm up;
- Sleep on an orthopedic mattress in a position that is comfortable for you.
- Avoid injuries, sudden and often repeated movements of the same type, static load;
- The diet must be complete to promote health;
- Periodically visit a masseuse, rest and relax completely;
- Lead an active lifestyle, exercise.
Pay attention to your health and avoid factors that can harm your lower back. Don't start the disease if it couldn't be prevented!