One of the most common diseases of the spine is lumbar osteochondrosis. 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 such as osteochondrosis, once thought to be the fate of the elderly, now affects even young people. The areas of the lumbar and sacral spine are particularly vulnerable. If you ignore the manifestations of the disease for a long time, a person risks losing his ability to move normally.
You should pay attention to the following symptoms:
- pain and shooting pains in the lower back, can radiate to the buttocks and abdomen;
- the appearance of stooping;
- unstable gait;
- tingling in the legs;
- phlebeurism;
- spasms of the lower extremities;
- impaired mobility, especially when turning and tilting.
It is these manifestations that are characteristic of lumbar osteochondrosis. They get worse when lifting weights, sitting for a long time or walking.
If you do not start treatment, pinching of the nerve endings may occur in the future, leading to partial or complete paralysis of the legs.
Reasons
The prevalence of lumbar osteochondrosis is explained by the fact that every person is faced with disease-provoking factors on a daily basis.
The reasons for the development of the problem can be:
- prolonged static load on the lower back;
- passive lifestyle;
- improper posture;
- lifting and improperly carrying weights;
- frequent stress;
- disorders of metabolic processes;
- circulatory problems;
- deficiency of vitamins and minerals;
- trauma;
- obesity;
- hypothermia;
- hormonal disorders;
- frequent slopes and bends;
- uncomfortable bed;
- congenital pathologies of the spine;
- diseases of neighboring organs;
- age-related changes;
- heredity.
There is a huge load on the lumbar region. Every exercise and weightlifting affects the condition of this area. That is why osteochondrosis most often affects loaders, builders, weightlifters, representatives of professions that require prolonged walking or standing. In office workers, not only the lower back but also the sacrum suffers. Without protection from influencing factors, the effectiveness of treatment will be many times less.
Possible complications
In the initial stage of osteochondrosis, a person does not experience any special problems, except for temporary discomfort. The destruction of the intervertebral discs and the fibrous ring of the vertebrae gradually occurs, which provokes an increase in symptoms and the development of complications. As there is a close connection between the sacral and lumbar regions with the 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 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;
- sciatic nerve irritation;
- involuntary urination or defecation;
- development of osteophytes.
Immediate 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, ie a bundle of nerve roots. If pinched, a person risks being disabled.
Treatment with traditional methods
It is best to consult a doctor if you suspect osteochondrosis to make sure the diagnosis is correct, to determine the degree of progression of the disease and get professional advice for further treatment.
Traditional therapies include:
- healing effect. Novocaine blockades are used to stop pain attacks, especially when a nerve is pinched. 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 types of stimulation of the problematic spine. It also includes techniques for reflexology, mud therapy, salt baths and much more;
- Massage and orthopedics. The patient is prescribed a course of therapeutic massage aimed at accelerating tissue repair and relieving stress. Manual therapy can also be performed to straighten the posture and stretch the spine. Apply "dry" adhesion and water;
- exercise therapy. There is a set of exercises aimed at developing and strengthening the lumbar region. In case of severe pain, the coach's control is necessary, and in the initial stages of the disease and for prevention, gymnastics can be performed at home;
- Surgical intervention. In advanced cases and with pinched nerve roots, surgical treatment is required. Surgical intervention consists of opening the problem vertebra, releasing the compressed tissues and, if necessary, installing a prosthesis to compensate for the wear of the intervertebral disc.
The use of folk remedies is allowed as ancillary home methods.
Osteochondrosis of the lumbar region - 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 folk methods is that with their help it is possible to achieve the following effects:
- pain relief;
- stress relief;
- strengthening the body;
- stimulate blood circulation;
- restoration of the spine;
- eliminate inflammation.
The following recipes are considered the most popular in home treatment:
- Burdock leaf infusion compresses. Helps relieve pain and stop the inflammatory process;
- Decoction of dandelion root. Good anti-inflammatory, strengthens the body;
- Baths with a decoction of chamomile and herb leotard. Relax and relieve inflammation;
- Ointments based on beeswax and propolis, unrefined sunflower oil, honey and decoction of St. John's wort. 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;
- Alcoholic tincture of horseradish root. Excellent warms, 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 adjustment of 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 take preventive measures. They are aimed at strengthening the spine and preventing it from injury.
Prevention tips:
- Avoid strenuous exercise, especially weight lifting;
- Wear an orthopedic belt or corset under heavy loads or as directed by a doctor to support your back muscles and prevent intervertebral disc prolapse;
- Monitor your own weight, as obesity is one of the causes of diseases of the musculoskeletal system;
- Do not sit in an awkward position, observe your posture, get up periodically and warm up;
- Sleep on an orthopedic mattress in a comfortable position for you;
- Avoid injuries, sudden and frequent movements of the same type, static load;
- The diet should be complete to promote health;
- Periodically visit a masseur, rest completely and relax;
- Lead an active lifestyle, exercise.
Monitor your health and avoid factors that can damage your lower back. Do not start the disease if it was not possible to prevent it!