Lumbago from the perspective of an internist and naturopath

A lumbago is a pain originating from the lumbar spine, sometimes radiating down to the toes, which can be triggered by a sudden wrong movement or prolonged physical and especially psychological stress. Initially, it may be merely the result of local inflammation and muscle spasm without any organ abnormality, but in cases of recurring complaints, a unilateral or bilateral bulging of the intervertebral disc between the lumbar vertebrae, or in more severe cases a herniation, may be behind it, which can rupture under further strain. The latter is accompanied by symptoms ranging from numbness and mild muscle weakness to muscle paralysis, with pain intensity depending on individual tolerance. The severity of the abnormality can generally be estimated based on symptoms, but an accurate diagnosis is provided by an MRI scan of the affected spinal segment in the hands of a neurologist specialist.

Man bending over and straining his lower back, illustrating lumbago

Treatment


The best outcome is when we already focus on prevention, and the complaints do not even develop. If mild symptoms begin to appear, it is advisable to utilize all methods of alternative medicine

  • starting with physiotherapy,
  • yoga,
  • application of local anti-inflammatory ointments, and in case of stronger complaints, in addition to the above, the use of
  • anti-inflammatory and muscle relaxant medications in tablet form, or
  • in the form of muscle injections administered in a course,
  • in cases of pronounced numbness or muscle paralysis, surgical solutions are considered.

If our efforts for prevention are successful, or at least if we change our lifestyle when mild symptoms appear, we can avoid the most severe symptoms and surgery.

How can we prevent lumbago?


The most important thing is that our soul is in balance with the world. Stress affects all of us; it cannot be eliminated, but how we respond to it depends on us. We should regularly relax and rest in a place, if nothing else, in meditation, which brings us happiness, recharges us, and gives us strength for further struggles.

The next important aspect is maintaining a body weight appropriate for our height regardless of age (BMI index should be between 20-25, calculated as: weight/height in meters squared, e.g., a person 160 cm tall and 60 kg has a BMI of 60kg/1.6m x 1.6m = 60 kg/2.56 m2 = 23.4375 kg/m2), and in case of obesity, weight reduction should be started as soon as possible.

The third important preventive activity requires a physiotherapist who shows the correct posture and how to perform activities in a way that causes the least harm to our spine, and at the same time, the use of assistive devices is also advisable, which help maintain the proper position of the spine for those who do prolonged sitting work or drive for long periods, and of course, regular exercise with a form and intensity suitable for our spinal condition.

Dr. Gabriella Eszes internist, naturopath