One of the most common diseases of the spine is lumbar osteochondrosis. Treatment with folk remedies can alleviate the symptoms, but for 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.
Symptoms of the disease
A problem such as osteochondrosis, formerly considered the fate of the elderly, now affects young people as well. 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 such symptoms:
- aches and pains in the lower back, may radiate to the buttocks and abdominal region;
- bending appearance;
- unstable gait;
- numbness in the legs;
- flebeurism;
- spasms of the lower extremities;
- deterioration of mobility, especially when turning and tilting.
It is these manifestations that are characteristic of lumbar osteochondrosis. They are aggravated by lifting weights, long sitting or walking.
If you do not start treatment, scratching of the nerve endings may occur in the future, leading to partial or complete paralysis of the legs.
Causes
The prevalence of lumbar osteochondrosis is explained by the fact that every person faces provocative factors of the disease every day.
The reasons for the development of the problem can be:
- prolonged static load on the lower back;
- passive lifestyle;
- wrong attitude;
- improper lifting and holding of weights;
- frequent stress;
- violation of metabolic processes;
- circulatory problems;
- lack of vitamins and minerals;
- trauma;
- obesity;
- hypothermia;
- hormonal disruptions;
- anime and frequent twists;
- uncomfortable bed;
- congenital pathologies of the spine;
- diseases of neighboring organs;
- age-related changes;
- inheritance.
There is a large load in the lumbar region. Any physical exercise and heavy lifting affects the condition of this area. This is why loaders, builders, weightlifters, representatives of professions that require long walks or standing are more often sick with osteochondrosis. In office workers, not only the lower back suffers, but also the sacrum. Without protection from the influencing factors, the effectiveness of the treatment will be many times less.
Possible complications
In the initial stage of osteochondrosis, a person does not experience any particular problem, except for temporary discomfort. Gradually, destruction of the intervertebral discs and fibrous vertebral ring occurs, which provokes an increase in symptoms and the development of complications. Since there is a close connection between the sacral and lumbar regions with neighboring organs, the development of a number of diseases is not excluded.
First of all, they suffer:
- gastrointestinal tract;
- pelvic organs;
- liver;
- kidneys;
- nervous and vascular systems.
In addition, there are a number of negative consequences associated with the spine itself:
- diffuse osteochondrosis;
- constriction of nerve roots and blood vessels;
- neuritis;
- intervertebral hernia;
- leg paralysis;
- irritation of the sciatic nerve;
- involuntary urination or emptying;
- development of osteophytes.
Immediate treatment of osteochondrosis is required to prevent severe pain and the development of disability.
The lumbosacral area is distinguished by the presence of the so-called cauda equina, i. e. a bundle of nerve roots. If they are tight, a person risks becoming incapacitated.
Treatment with traditional methods
It is more reasonable to consult a doctor if you suspect osteochondrosis to make sure the diagnosis is correct, to determine the degree of disease progression, and to seek professional advice for its further treatment.
Traditional therapies include:
- medicinal effect. Novocaine blockers are used to stop pain attacks, especially when a nerve is crushed. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, warming ointments, muscle relaxants, vitamin-mineral complexes are also prescribed. Glucocorticosteroids, chondroprotectors, and drugs that stimulate blood circulation and metabolic processes in tissues to accelerate recovery may also be prescribed;
- Physiotherapy. These are electrical, magnetic, laser, pneumatic and other problematic spinal stimulations. It also includes reflexology techniques, mud therapy, salt baths and much more;
- Massage and orthopedics. The patient is prescribed a therapeutic massage course aimed at accelerating tissue repair and relieving stress. Manual therapy can also be performed to adjust the posture and alignment of the spine. Apply "dry" towel and water;
- exercise therapy. There is a set of exercises aimed at developing and strengthening the waist area. With severe pain, coach control is required, and in the initial stages of the disease and for prevention, gymnastics can be performed at home;
- Surgical intervention. In advanced cases and with suppressed nerve roots, surgical treatment is required. Surgical intervention consists of opening the problematic vertebra, releasing the tight tissue, and, if necessary, installing a prosthesis to compensate for the consumption of the intervertebral disc.
As a home help method, the use of folk remedies is allowed.
Lumbar osteochondrosis - treatment with folk remedies
In some cases, osteochondrosis can be defeated by 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;
- stress relief;
- force the body;
- stimulation of blood circulation;
- spine restoration;
- eliminate inflammation.
The following recipes are considered the most popular in home treatment:
- Compresses from the infusion of burdock leaves. Helps relieve pain and stop the inflammatory process;
- Decoction of dandelion root. A good anti-inflammatory agent, strengthens the body;
- Bath with a decoction of chamomile and herb. Relax and relieve inflammation;
- Beeswax and propolis based ointment, unrefined sunflower oil, honey and St. John's wort decoction. They help not only with osteochondrosis but also with various joint problems;
- Alcoholic tincture of white lilac flowers. Warms the back and relieves the symptoms of the disease;
- Alcohol tincture with horseradish root. Excellent heat, relieves inflammation, swelling and pain;
- Arnica, green walnuts and a decoction of the bulb. From these ingredients, a mixture is prepared for oral administration before meals. It 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 damage.
Preventive tips:
- Avoid strenuous exercise, especially heavy lifting;
- Wear an orthopedic belt or corset for heavy loads or as instructed by a physician to support the back muscles and protect against intervertebral disc prolapse;
- Look at your weight, as obesity is one of the causes of diseases of the musculoskeletal system;
- Do not sit in an uncomfortable position, watch your posture, get up periodically and warm up;
- Sleep on an orthopedic mattress in a comfortable position for you;
- Avoid injuries, sudden and often repetitive movements of the same type, static load;
- The diet should be complete to promote health;
- Periodically visit a massage therapist, rest completely and relax;
- Lead an active lifestyle, exercise.
Take care of your health and avoid factors that can damage the lower back. Do not start the disease if it has not been possible to prevent it!