One of the most common diseases of the spine is lumbar osteochondrosis. Treatment with folk remedies can relieve 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 like osteochondrosis, which used to be considered a phenomenon of old age, now affects even young people. The areas of the lumbar and sacral spine are particularly at risk. 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:
- aching and stabbing pain in lower back, may radiate to buttocks and abdominal region;
- the appearance of stooping;
- unsteady gait;
- leg numbness;
- phlebeurysm;
- cramps of the lower extremities;
- Deterioration in mobility, especially when turning and tilting.
It is these manifestations that are characteristic of lumbar osteochondrosis. They are made worse by heavy lifting, sitting for long periods, or walking.
If you do not start treatment, pinching of nerve endings may occur in the future, which will lead to partial or complete paralysis of the legs.
causes
The prevalence of lumbar osteochondrosis is explained by the fact that every person is exposed to disease-causing factors on a daily basis.
The reasons for the development of the problem can be:
- prolonged static loads on the lower back;
- passive lifestyle;
- incorrect posture;
- lifting and improperly carrying weights;
- frequent stress;
- violations of metabolic processes;
- circulatory problems;
- lack of vitamins and minerals;
- Trauma;
- Obesity;
- hypothermia;
- hormonal disorders;
- frequent tipping and turning;
- uncomfortable bed;
- congenital pathologies of the spine;
- diseases of neighboring organs;
- age-related changes;
- inheritance.
The lumbar region is heavily loaded. Any physical exertion and heavy lifting adversely affect the condition of this area. Because of this, loaders, builders, weightlifters and representatives of professions that require long walking or standing are most often ill with osteochondrosis. In office workers, not only the lower back suffers, but also the sacrum. Without protection from influencing factors, the effectiveness of treatment will be several times less.
Possible complications
At the initial stage of osteochondrosis, a person does not have any special problems, except for temporary discomfort. Gradually, there is destruction of the intervertebral discs and the fibrous ring of the vertebra, which leads to 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.
Above all, they suffer:
- gastrointestinal tract;
- pelvic organs;
- Liver;
- kidneys;
- nervous and vascular system.
In addition, there are a number of negative consequences associated with the spine itself:
- widespread osteochondrosis;
- pinching of nerve roots and blood vessels;
- Neuritis;
- intervertebral hernia;
- paralysis of the legs;
- irritation of the sciatic nerve;
- involuntary urination or voiding;
- development of osteophytes.
Prompt treatment of osteochondrosis is necessary to prevent severe pain and the development of disability.
The lumbosacral zone is characterized by the presence of the so-called cauda equina, that is, a bundle of nerve roots. If they get pinched, a person risks becoming disabled.
Treatment with traditional methods
The most sensible thing to do when suspecting osteochondrosis is to consult a doctor in order to make the correct diagnosis, determine the degree of progression of the disease and get expert advice on further treatment.
Traditional therapies include:
- medicinal effect. Novocaine blocks are used to stop attacks of pain, especially when a nerve is pinched. Nonsteroidal 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 speed up recovery can also be prescribed;
- Physical therapy. These are electrical, magnetic, laser, pneumatic and other types of stimulation of the problematic spine. It also includes reflexology techniques, mud therapy, salt baths and much more;
- massage and orthopedics. The patient is prescribed a therapeutic massage aimed at accelerating tissue repair and relieving stress. Manual therapy can also be done to align posture and stretch the spine. Apply "dry" traction and water;
- exercise therapy. There are a number of exercises aimed at developing and strengthening the lumbar spine. With severe pain, the control of the trainer is required, and at the initial stage of the disease and for prevention, gymnastics can be done at home.
- Surgical intervention. In advanced cases and with pinched nerve roots, surgical treatment is required. The surgical procedure consists of opening the problem vertebra, releasing the trapped tissue and, if necessary, inserting a prosthesis to compensate for the wear and tear on the disc.
As a supporting home remedy, the use of folk remedies is allowed.
Osteochondrosis of the lumbar spine - treatment with folk remedies
In some cases, osteochondrosis can be defeated using folk remedies. It is recommended to consult a doctor beforehand, as some prescriptions may be contraindicated.
The essence of folk methods is that with their help it is possible to achieve the following effects:
- eliminate pain;
- Reduce stress;
- strengthen the body;
- stimulate blood circulation;
- restore the spine;
- 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;
- Decoction of dandelion root. A good anti-inflammatory, strengthens the body;
- Baths with a decoction of chamomile and knotweed. Relax and relieve inflammation;
- Ointments based on beeswax and propolis, unrefined sunflower oil, honey and St. John's wort decoction. 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 warms up, relieves inflammation, swelling and pain;
- Arnica, green walnuts and a brew from the tuber. A mixture for oral administration before meals is prepared from these components. 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 measures
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 are designed to strengthen the spine and protect it from injury.
Prevention Tips:
- Avoid strenuous exercise, especially heavy lifting;
- For heavy loads, or as directed by a doctor, wear an orthopedic belt or corset to support the back muscles and protect against a herniated disc.
- Watch your own weight because obesity is one of the causes of musculoskeletal disorders;
- Do not sit in an uncomfortable position, watch your posture, get up regularly 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 kind, static loads;
- Diet should be complete to promote health;
- Visit a massage therapist regularly, rest and relax;
- Lead an active lifestyle, exercise.
Take care of your health and avoid factors that can harm your lower back. Do not start the disease if it was not possible to prevent it!