Pain in the lumbar spine

Almost every person experiences pain in the lumbar spine at least once in their life. It is this section that receives the maximum load and changes in it are quite common. According to statistics, more than half of the population periodically experiences back pain and about eighty percent of them are in the lumbar region.

Low back pain can suddenly become intense, which can lead to temporary immobility.

This situation is not only physical discomfort, but also a whole system of diseases that can be a consequence of the absolute lack of motor performance of a person.

Why does lower back pain occur? How to prevent it? How to diagnose? How to treat? We will try to answer all these questions, revealing the essence of this problem as widely as possible.

But, nevertheless, it should be understood that this information is provided for informational purposes only. Self-diagnosis and self-medication are extremely dangerous things.

Pain in the lumbar spine can appear at almost any age, but most often occurs between the ages of thirty and sixty. The nature of algesia can vary from moderate to sharp and intense with irradiation to the buttocks and lower extremities. To prevent these painful sensations, it is recommended to exercise regularly, lead a healthy lifestyle, distribute loads evenly, avoid hypothermia and stress.

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Causes of Pain in the Lumbar Spine

So, the main task that is necessary to eliminate pain in the lumbar spine is to identify the cause of its occurrence.

Myofascial pain in the lumbar spine is myalgia in diseases of the spine.

The main factors that cause pain include excessive strain on the spine, especially for loaders and other professions where physical stress is constant.

Let's look at the diseases that cause pain in the lumbar spine:

• osteochondrosis, scoliosis, occurrence of herniated discs in intervertebral discs;
• short leg syndrome;
• reduction in the size of half of the pelvis;
• the longer second metatarsal bone;
• short shoulders;
• kyphosis;
• the result of a prolonged uncomfortable position;
• blocking of one of the joints;
• prolonged compression of the muscle;
• gynecological pathology;
• gastrointestinal diseases (stomach ulcer and duodenal ulcer).

Why does pain in the lumbar spine occur?

Low back pain can be caused by a variety of reasons, including:

Lumbar radiculitis

One of the causes of pain in the lumbar spine is lumbar radiculitis (lumbago). Most often, this disease affects middle-aged and elderly people, is characterized by an acute onset and is usually associated with excessive physical or emotional stress. The cause of the development of such a pathology is an inflammatory process affecting the roots of the spinal cord. The pain is localized in the lumbar spine and is piercing in nature, accompanied by shooting pains and pulsation. The patient takes a forced position with a forward bend of the body and is unable to straighten the back. This is due to the fact that a spasm occurs in the muscles of the lumbar region, which can last from several minutes to several days. At rest and in a horizontal position, the pain syndrome, as a rule, decreases. When trying to strain or turn, as well as when coughing or sneezing, the pain becomes stronger. If untimely treatment, the disease can take a chronic form with repeated episodes of exacerbation. The pain associated with radiculitis is concentrated in the lumbar region, but can radiate to the legs, fingers and buttocks, making it difficult and limiting the patient's motor activity. A complication of this condition can be curvature of the spine, limiting its mobility.

Sprain

Such a disorder as a lumbar ligament sprain is often one of the causes of pain in the lumbar spine. Neurological disorders are usually absent, spasms of the deep back muscles and stiffness of mobility in the lumbar region are noted. Sprains occur due to a violation of the integrity of the fibers as a result of their intense eccentric contraction and tension. As a rule, this condition occurs as a result of injury or careless abrupt movement during physical activity or sports.

Spondylolisthesis

Lower back pain associated with this condition may be accompanied by a feeling of tension in the hamstring, numbness, and weakness in the lower limbs due to pressure on the nerve. Spondylolisthesis occurs due to the displacement of the vertebrae forward (anterolisthesis) or backward (retrolisthesis) relative to the other vertebrae. In severe cases of the disease and the development of complications, problems with the functioning of the intestines or bladder, as well as deformation of the spine, may occur. The mobility of the lower spine with spondylolisthesis is usually limited, and the pain syndrome increases after physical activity.

Spondylolysis

Pain in the lumbar spine with this pathology is associated with non-fusion of the vertebral arch in the area between the joints or in the area of the arch pedicle, which occurs as a result of insufficient development of the posterior spine. The main signs of this disease are periodic pain of a moderate nature in the lumbar spine, which appears during a long stay in an uncomfortable position, during prolonged walking or careless movement.

Lumbar stenosis

This disease usually develops gradually over a fairly long period. The mechanism of stenosis development consists of irritation and compression of the spinal nerve roots as a result of narrowing of the spinal canal. In addition to pain, the patient may experience cramps, numbness in the buttocks and lower extremities. When changing position and reducing compression on the nerve roots, the pain in the lumbar spine usually subsides. One of the most common causes of spinal stenosis is disorders in the spine associated with age factors and degeneration of joints and intervertebral discs. Such pathology as spondylolisthesis, as well as spinal injuries, connective tissue fibrosis, and hereditary factors can also provoke the development of stenosis.

Osteochondrosis of the lumbar spine

Factors influencing the development of the disease include metabolic disorders, spinal trauma, excess weight, excessive physical exertion, and a sedentary lifestyle. With osteochondrosis, nerve roots are pinched as a result of the protrusion of the intervertebral disc and narrowing of the intervertebral space, resulting in pain. Depending on the type and concentration of pain, they are divided into sciatica and lumbago. Symptoms of the disease are differentiated depending on which roots are under pressure. When the L 1 and L 2 roots are compressed, sensitivity in the groin area and inner thighs is impaired. The pain can radiate to both lower limbs if osteochondrosis has caused a hernia. When the L 5 roots are affected, the patient experiences shooting pain in the lumbar spine, while the sensitivity of the big toe decreases and its mobility is limited. Damage to the S1 segment is accompanied by shooting pain, decreased sensitivity of the shins and outer thigh, and pain in the toes. Often, when this root is damaged, tendon and plantar reactions are reduced. When the lower additional radicular-medullary artery, which supplies blood to the conus and epicone of the spinal cord, is damaged, immobilization of the shins and buttocks may occur. If the L5, S roots are damaged simultaneously with this artery, this may lead to the development of sciatica with impairment of movement functions.

Pregnancy

During pregnancy, changes occur in the sacroiliac joints associated with the preparation of the expectant mother for the birth process and ensuring the normal passage of the fetus during labor. At the same time, the growing belly affects the spine, the lumbar muscles become tense and painful sensations arise. In the late stages of pregnancy, pain in the lumbar spine is often associated with increased load on the spinal column and weakened abdominal muscles. The pain can radiate to the leg, increase after exertion, a long stay in one position or after a long walk.

Menstruation

Pain in the lumbar spine can occur in women before and during menstruation. Such pain is most often combined with pain in the lower abdomen, accompanied by irritability, headache, nausea, and a general deterioration in well-being.

What causes acute pain in the lumbar spine?

Acute pain is the most dangerous pain as it is a consequence of injuries. What are the types of back injuries and their symptoms?

1. back muscle injuries, strains,
2. back muscle contusion,
3. acute sprain in addition to pain, limits movement. The pain in this course of events radiates to the groin area,
4. The most dangerous are vertebral fractures. Here the pain can lead to loss of consciousness.

In addition to injuries, acute pain can also be caused by other reasons:

1. lumbago, causes pain due to the intervertebral discs falling out. Of course, this disease has a sharp expression in terms of pain indicators,
2. radiculitis causes pain in the lumbar spine, in the sacrum. The pain can be of two types: dull and sharp. It covers the thigh, buttock, shin. When walking, coughing, the pain becomes stronger. It is possible to feel itching, burning, "running ants",
3. pain in the lumbar spine resulting from an epidural abscess is acute,
4. Any kind of pathology regarding the hip joint is accompanied by acute pain in the lower back, radiating even to the knee joint.

Chronic pain is possible with the following problems:

1. with degenerative changes in the lumbar vertebrae, which are called deforming spondylosis, the pain has neurological symptoms during walking, namely: sensitivity disorders; weakness affecting both lower limbs. Lameness appears immediately;
2. Chronic pain in the lumbar spine, which goes to the hips, is typical for patients with ankylosing spondylosis. The initial stages of development are accompanied by limited mobility and morning stiffness. And the level of chest movements during breathing is also reduced, which leads to curvature and bending of the thoracic spine;
3. cancerous neoplasms, presence of metastases;
4. osteomyelitis;
5. Intradural tumors produce neurological symptoms.

How does lumbar spine pain manifest itself?

In order to thoroughly characterize lumbar spine pain, it is necessary to carefully consider all possible symptoms relative to each disease separately.

1. Osteochondrosis. When suffering from osteochondrosis, pain in the lumbar spine is far from the only symptom. The condition of the spinal cord and spine as a whole depends primarily on the finest nerve fibers with all the accompanying "details" that affect the activity of the kidneys, heart, lungs, gastrointestinal tract and general well-being. Here, the depressive state is also explained by the fact that the nerve processes responsible for the functioning of the brain are affected.
2. Scoliosis. Most often, this is the reason for pain in the lumbar spine. It can be determined with the naked eye, since its main symptom is curvature of the spine, which most often occurs in childhood.

Severe forms of this disease can lead to serious consequences, including disability.

Symptoms of mild scoliosis include visible factors such as stooping; asymmetrical positioning of the shoulders, i.e., one higher than the other; discomfort in the back area, when standing for a long time, as well as during long walks.

Naturally, the severity of symptoms increases if scoliosis has a more severe course. In this case, pain in the lumbar spine is either constant or occurs every time when walking or standing (and walking or standing does not take a long time). External indicators include more complex changes: uneven position of the shoulder blades; changes in the structure of the chest. Other symptoms: shortness of breath, chest pain.

3. Herniated discs can cause incredibly unbearable pain in the lumbar spine, even at the earliest stage of their development. Other symptoms are characterized depending on the size, duration of the disease and location of the hernias. Typically, the signs of the disease are as follows:
   • pain throughout the entire back. It may be dull in severity if the stage of development is initial and the hernia is small. If the pain symptoms become more intense and constant, especially during physical exertion and even when coughing, this indicates that the disease is becoming more complex,
   • when the hernia "breaks through", of course, the pain becomes even stronger and radiates to the legs, hips. A person can experience a strong "shooting", as with radiculitis. By the way, an advanced form of hernia can cause radiculitis. And here the patient even feels numbness of the skin areas of the legs;
   • the motor function in the lumbar region is impaired. It becomes impossible to straighten the back completely, as the pain in the lumbar spine strains the condition of the back muscles. The consequences are kyphosis or scoliosis;
   • a feeling of tingling, weakness, numbness in one or both legs at once. Such symptoms signal that the hernia has “reached” the spinal cord roots;
   • problems with stool, urination, and potency.
4. Short leg syndrome is a consequence of myosfascial syndrome, which can also cause scoliosis. If the length of one leg differs from the length of the other by 5-6 mm, then this is not a reason to attribute such a diagnosis to yourself, if you think purely theoretically. But practice shows that even a 3-4 mm difference causes pelvic tilt and distortion, forms the development of scoliosis, provokes active blockades of the motor segments of the spine. This blockade means blocking the motor system of a segment of the spine during violations of the location of intra-articular components.

With age, the difference in leg length increases, which leads to a deterioration in the biomechanics of the spine. Naturally, this process increases pain in the lumbar spine.

5. Pain in the lumbar spine can occur as a result of a decrease in the size of half of the pelvis. This disease is characterized by the following symptoms:
   • the patient has an involuntary tilt of his pelvis towards the smaller side when sitting,
   • the muscles on the same side are constantly tense, as they experience regular loads,
   • the possibility of shortening one of its limbs cannot be ruled out.
6. If a person has been diagnosed with an elongated second metatarsal bone, he should know that the symptoms of this disease are very painful, since the affected foot loses its functions as a shock absorber. Of course, the patient experiences pain in the lumbar spine, hip, shin, foot. In the process of its development, the syndrome affects not only the foot, but also other parts of the body: shin, thigh, lumbar spine.
7. Short shoulders can also cause pain in the lumbar spine. This diagnosis is very rare. Its symptoms, in addition to pain: the discrepancy between the length of the shoulder and the length of the body. Because of which the muscles in the shoulder girdle experience constant tension.
8. Kyphosis is popularly called stoop. In this case, the pain covers the neck, shoulders, back. Most often, kyphosis is a hereditary result. Symptoms of this disease are characterized not only by painful indicators, but also by visible changes. The back has the appearance of an "arc" (backward direction), the angle of which is equal to 45 ° or more. Up to 45 ° from a medical point of view is normal, that is, it is not yet a fact of the presence of kyphosis.

Pain in the lumbar spine in this situation has the form of muscle spasms. Sometimes other consequences are possible, such as numbness of the limbs, weakness, changes in the work of the heart, digestion, breathing.

Types of Low Back Pain

• Acute. Acute lumbar spine pain is one of the most common, and usually lasts no more than three months.
• Recurrent. This type of pain is characterized by repeated episodes of exacerbation of the disease.
• Chronic. In chronic cases, the pain syndrome persists for more than three months.

Diagnosis of pain in the lumbar spine

Pain in the lumbar spine can be completely different, since there are many diseases that can provoke pain, and therefore the diagnostic methods are also different.

Before talking about the examination methods, it is necessary to name the doctors by their type of specialization, whom you should contact:

• traumatologist,
• gynecologist,
• urologist,
• neurologist,
• physiotherapist,
• gastroenterologist,
• osteopath,
• manual therapist,
• masseur.

Now let's take a closer look at the methods of diagnosing diseases that, one way or another, provoke pain in the lumbar spine.

1. as a result of a spinal injury, the doctor needs to know the exact time in order to more accurately determine the degree of mechanical damage. The first stages of the examination consist of checking the person's condition in the following ways: checking the pulse, breathing, consciousness, sensitivity, motor functions. It is also very important to know whether the victim was intoxicated at that moment.

Next stage of diagnostics:

• assessment of the general condition,
• assessment of the state of consciousness,
• identification of physical injuries, if any, which include: swelling, bruising, abrasions,
• assessment of the patient's behavior, that is, it is necessary to determine his reaction: activity, immobility, etc.,
• Palpation and percussion of the spine is performed to detect pain and deformation in the damaged area.

The final stage of diagnosis is radiography. Usually, an x-ray is the best way to detect this problem;

2. Osteochondrosis is diagnosed first by questioning the patient's medical history. Establishing symptoms is crucial for determining the diagnosis itself. A number of existing symptoms are typical for this disease, while some are atypical, i.e. require enhanced diagnostics, which include:
   • X-ray is one of the most effective methods of examining osteochondrosis, which is divided into several types of radiography:
     • a general X-ray of the spine, which is the simplest option for examining osteochondrosis,
     • myelography is a more dangerous method of detecting osteochondrosis, since in this case the process requires the introduction of contrast fluid into the spinal canal,
   • computed tomography,
   • magnetic nuclear resonance,
   • neurological diagnostics are carried out to comprehensively determine the patient’s well-being;
3. Scoliosis is examined in the same ways as osteochondrosis: X-ray, computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging;
4. Diagnosis of intervertebral disc herniation during the first visit to the doctor is carried out with a survey of the patient in order to find out how intense the pain in the lumbar spine is, thereby automatically finding out the approximate condition of the patient. In order to make an accurate diagnosis, the doctor, as a rule, uses new examination techniques: computed tomography and magnetic resonance. Of course, there are “cheaper” options, such as X-rays, but modern doctors call such diagnostic methods “yesterday’s news”, especially since the herniation itself is not visible on the image taken by the X-ray.

Several doctors are involved in the diagnosis and treatment of intervertebral hernia: orthopedist, surgeon, vertebrologist;

5. Kyphosis is usually diagnosed with an x-ray;
6. lumbago, like most diseases related to the spine, is initially determined symptomatically. In order to exclude other diseases associated with dysfunction of the spine, an X-ray examination is prescribed;
7. examination and treatment of radiculitis are carried out by doctors: therapist, neurologist. Diagnostic methods for radiculitis include:
   • X-ray,
   • CT – computed tomography,
   • MRI – magnetic resonance imaging,
   • scintigraphy or another name - scanning,
   • densitometry,
   • ultrasound,
   • laboratory collection of blood and urine samples.
8. epidural abscess requires a more complex examination process, where pus is taken (puncture). Here they also resort to conducting research: CT, MRI;
9. Osteomyelitis is examined in the following ways:
   • blood test: general; to determine diabetes; for C-reactive protein,
   • urine: general analysis,
   • if purulent contents appear, a culture is taken,
   • x-ray, CT, MRI, ultrasound,
   • Radionuclide imaging is the best way to detect osteomyelitis.

Thus, in order to establish the causes of pain in the lumbar spine, in addition to an in-person examination by a doctor and testing of reflexes and muscle strength, the following diagnostic methods can be used:

• X-ray examination
• Computer tomography
• Magnetic resonance imaging
• Myelogram
• Electromyogram

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Treatment of pain in the lumbar spine

We often hear "we treat one thing, but cripple another." There is nothing surprising in this phrase, since many, having read a medical encyclopedia, attribute to themselves diseases that have nothing in common with the true diagnosis, except for the symptoms. If a person has pain in the lumbar spine, this does not mean that everything is over - radiculitis has struck. Perhaps the mattress on which a person sleeps causes physical discomfort, which is why the back hurts.

The main treatment for lumbar spine pain is to eliminate the pain syndrome and quickly restore the functions of the lumbar spine. Timely treatment also helps prevent complications and the transition of the disease to a chronic form.

Of the medications for the treatment of pain in the lumbar spine, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are used in the form of tablets, creams, ointments, gels, including diclofenac, ketoprofen, indomethacin, ibuprofen, etc. The duration of use of such drugs and the method of their use depend on how severe the pain syndrome is. If the pain in the lumbar spine is not too severe and the patient's motor activity is not impaired, applications with diclofenac can be applied to the affected area for seven to ten days. Sodium diclofenac is part of the Voltaren Emulgel ointment. The ointment has analgesic, anti-inflammatory and anti-edematous properties, promotes tissue regeneration in case of lower back trauma, accelerates the process of restoration of damaged tendons and muscles. The ointment is applied to clean and dry skin three to four times a day.

The course of treatment should not exceed two to three weeks. In case of severe pain in the lumbar spine, affecting the patient's mobility, diclofenac is administered as injections for three to seven days, then switched to tablets. On average, the duration of treatment is three weeks to a month.

In case of unbearable pain, depending on the indications, the doctor may prescribe powerful analgesics. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can also be used together with muscle relaxants. This group of drugs includes, for example, sirdalud, which reduces cramps and spasms, and also increases voluntary contraction of skeletal muscles. Sirdalud is used two to four milligrams three times a day. In case of severe pain, an additional two to four milligrams can be taken at night. In case of acute pain, the drug is taken for five to seven days. In case of chronic pain, the duration of treatment increases significantly.

Physical therapy is of great importance in the treatment of lumbar spine pain. A set of exercises is selected individually by the attending physician depending on the general symptoms of the disease and the severity of the pain.

In case of pain in the lumbar spine caused by hypothermia, it is advisable to use ointments with warming properties, for example, viprosal or apizartron, containing snake or bee venom. After applying the ointment, the lumbar region should be wrapped in a woolen scarf. If the cause of pain is osteochondrosis, physiotherapy methods, acupuncture, massage, therapeutic exercises, and spinal traction can be used for treatment. It is possible to alleviate the condition of pain in the lumbar spine during pregnancy with the help of a diet rich in calcium. In case of regular pain, it is possible to use calcium carbonate or lactate. The load on the lower back should be minimal.

Treatment of lumbar spine pain depending on the cause

If the diagnosis is clear, then there will be no problems with treatment.

So, types of treatment - by type of disease:

1. osteochondrosis. It is impossible to outline the principles of treatment in a few words because it is a rather complicated task, and unfortunately, it is impossible to stop the process of damage, but it is still possible to slow it down.

In this situation, the patient must be "obedient", that is, if it says - bed rest, it means: bed rest. Otherwise, we are used to complaining about ineffective treatment methods, while not listening to the main thing. The patient's bed should be hard: forget about feather beds and air mattresses. In addition, it is best to buy an orthopedic mattress. If you do not follow this recommendation, then the treatment itself will lose its necessary meaning.

Osteochondrosis requires complex therapy, consisting of:

• symptomatic treatment, the purpose of which is to eliminate pain in the lumbar spine and other parts of the body affected by the pain syndrome. For this purpose, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are used as drugs, which are used in neurology, namely "Piroxicam", "Ibuprofen", "Diclofenac". These medications are a reliable way to eliminate pain and inflammation, but they also have their drawbacks - side effects: nausea, vomiting, bleeding, exacerbation of the ulcer. Less dangerous drugs for this effect: "Lornoxicam", "Xefocam", "Meloxicam", "Nimesil".

Treatment with these drugs is supplemented with muscle relaxants: "Tetrazepam", "Diazepam", "Mydocalm". Together, the first and second variants of symptomatic treatment relieve muscle tension and eliminate pain. Plus, nervousness is reduced,

• improve blood circulation (which is very necessary for osteochondrosis) is possible with the following drugs: "Pentoxifylline" - a vasodilator drug, "Berlition" - has a restorative effect on the energy work of cells, "Actovegin" - contains all the necessary components for the treatment of osteochondrosis: nucleosides, oligosaccharides, amino acids, etc.,
• regeneration of cartilage tissue is carried out using chondroprotector therapy, which has restorative and anti-inflammatory properties, for example, "Teraflex", "Structum",
• vitamin and mineral therapy is explained by the need for vitamin D and calcium. In this case, the following drugs are effective: "Calcium-D3", "Alfacalcidol", "Nycomed",
• antidepressants (selected individually for each patient, they have serious side effects). Usually used for osteochondrosis are such drugs as "Duloxetine", "Sertraline", "Amitriptyline".

The secrets of our grandmothers contain great wisdom. Here are some methods of treating osteochondrosis that have come down to us:

• defeat osteochondrosis with celery: 3-4 grams of celery root is crushed and poured with warm water (1 l). Infuse for 8 hours and strain. Dose: 1 teaspoon before meals 3 times a day,
• Sunflower root is very effective for osteochondrosis. The preparation of this remedy is a complex process, so you need to act carefully. The first stage of preparation: thick root parts are selected, which are stored in a dry, clean, dark place (in the pantry). The root must be crushed before the preparation of the remedy. The roots (1 glass) must be crushed to a small size (like beans) and boiled (3 liters of water) in a non-metallic container for 3 minutes. Thus, we get tea that is drunk for 2 - 3 days. That is, the amount of the resulting decoction must be divided so that there are equal portions for the entire course of treatment,
• Valerian ointment. To prepare it, you need: crushed valerian roots, crushed calamus roots, peppermint leaves, rowan berries, succession, plantain, burdock root, sandy immortelle, ground corn and oats - 60 g of each ingredient, celandine - 30 g, birch mushroom - 120 g. Then the herbal mixture is divided into 8 parts and poured into 8 vessels of 0.5 liters. Each vessel is filled with water so that 1/3 remains filled. Then vegetable oil is added (preferably market oil), while 2/3 of the vessel should be empty. The container with the contents should be tightly closed, or, as they say now: create an airtight package. And put in a dark place. For 2 months, the contents are shaken so that no sediment remains. After 2 months, the mass from all the vessels is poured into one non-metallic pan and heated to 60°. Then it is poured into the vessels again and left to infuse for a month. Don't forget to shake it.

Now the ointment for external use is ready.

The last resort for treating osteochondrosis is surgery. It is prescribed in cases where spinal hernias have already formed, including compression of spinal roots; obvious distortions of the spinal column; subluxation of the vertebrae. The operation is intended exclusively for reconstruction, but the pathological process remains unaffected.

2. scoliosis is treated in several ways, the choice of which depends on the degree of the disease. The focus of therapy includes, first of all, the elimination of symptoms, not excluding pain in the lumbar spine. Do not forget about the cause of scoliosis, which also needs to be eliminated. Then special gymnastics, physiotherapy and massage are prescribed.

Idiopathic scoliosis at the first stage is subject to therapy aimed at strengthening the muscles of the entire body. In this situation, excellent means are: physical exercises, massage, physiotherapy, swimming.

During the treatment, regular visits to the orthopedist are mandatory, as he monitors the treatment and should see positive changes, if any.

The second stage already requires some additions to the above procedures: a corrective corset, which is made according to individual requirements.

The third stage requires longer treatment than the second stage. But the manipulations remain the same.

Surgical intervention is used already at the last stages of scoliosis development, when the angle of curvature is more than 40°. This method of treatment is extremely dangerous. And it is resorted to if other options do not make sense.

3. The main methods of treating intervertebral disc herniation are as follows:

• avoiding uncomfortable positions and sharp turns;
• spinal traction,
• massage,
• health-improving physical education,
• physical and thermal procedures,
• use of anti-inflammatory drugs. Usually prescribed are "Ortofen", "Indomethacin", "Diclofenac", "Ibuprofen",
• taking painkillers, such as Diazepam and Tizanidine. These medications have a relaxing effect on muscles,
• novocaine blockades,
• wearing a soft corset made to individual requirements.

Surgical treatment is used to remove the hernia. The operation can be urgent or delayed, depending on the patient's condition. Sometimes, surgical intervention is the only way out of the situation. Usually, this category of cases includes patients whose hernia has reached large sizes and puts pressure on blood vessels and the spinal cord.

In folk medicine, there are several methods known that have a therapeutic effect on the spine in the presence of a hernia. But again, the result of treatment with folk methods is visible with complex therapy, including traditional principles of treatment:

• 1 teaspoon of chamomile flowers in equal proportions with linden flowers and rose hips per 1 glass of boiling water. Infuse for about 20 minutes and strain. Drink a third of the mixture 3 times a day before meals,
• crushed raisins - 1 cup, the same amount of nuts and dried apricots. Add 1 tablespoon of honey with the juice of half a lemon. Mix all the contents and take a tablespoon three times a day,
• rye or wheat bran - 1 tablespoon, pour water - 2 glasses, and boil for about half an hour. Then add honey - 1 tablespoon. Take 3 times a day, 50 g.

4. Kyphosis is treated with the aim of eliminating not only the defects that have arisen due to the disease, but also the phenomena that cause pain in the lumbar spine.

Therapy is immediate, that is, treatment is carried out immediately after diagnosis. The best period for treatment is the age of up to 24 years. Although, practice has shown that the necessary result can be achieved at a later age.

The treatment complex consists of:

• reflexotherapy, better known as acupuncture. Its treatment scheme is based on reflex connections that have emerged as a result of ontogenesis and phylogenesis, carried out through the central nervous system by stimulating the receptor functions of the skin and its mucous membranes.

This technique is also called acupuncture, the purpose of which is based on the elimination of degenerative-dystrophic problems, such as: intervertebral hernia, kyphosis, osteochondrosis, and the like.

The procedure itself involves placing thin needles (made of stainless steel) into the patient’s skin at specific “points” that need to be “activated” during the acupuncture process;

• Electrical stimulation is performed using electric current to increase the activity of certain systems and organs. Typically, the goal of such therapy is to stimulate motor muscles and nerves. Rarely used in relation to internal organs.

Electrical stimulation is not prescribed at will. It is prescribed by a doctor based on indications and contraindications, which are:

• Indications: motor dysfunctions (paralysis) acquired as a result of diseases and injuries; disorders of the closure and motor activity of the stomach and other organs of the digestive and genitourinary systems;
• Contraindications: absolute transverse heart block, atrial fibrillation, arterial hypertension, polytropic extrasystole, active rheumatism, vascular crises, trophic ulcers, tendency to bleeding, fever, acute inflammatory processes, rehabilitation period after suturing tendons, muscles and nerves, restrictions on physiotherapy procedures.

In case of kyphosis and other diseases of the spine, the zones of influence are:

1. lumbar region,
2. neck,
3. hypogastric region,
4. epigastric zone,
5. posterior and anterior shoulder muscles,
6. outer and inner plane of the forearm,
7. triceps,
8. biceps,
9. muscles of the thighs and buttocks,
10. gastrocnemius muscle,
11. extensors of the foot and toes.

• Vacuum therapy is one of the most painless methods that helps eliminate pain in the lumbar spine. In addition, it distinguishes itself from other methods of treating kyphosis by its special effectiveness:
  • Fast and safe relief of pain syndromes that arise during radiculitis, kyphosis, osteochondrosis,
  • Rehabilitation of the body as a result of restoration of its own resources,
  • Prevents a number of diseases,
  • Activation of microcirculation of all fluid components in the body, thereby renewing and rejuvenating tissues,

Fast and high-quality cleansing of the body from existing toxins.

Let's consider the indications for vacuum therapy of the back (other parts of the body may also be involved depending on the type of disease): osteochondrosis, myalgia, tension of the back muscles, radiculitis, shoulder-scapular periarthritis, lumbago, chronic fatigue, chronic bronchitis and bronchial asthma, gastric ulcer, neurocirculatory dystonia, hypertension, myogelosis, postoperative recovery process, formation of posture in children.

• manual therapy, which is presented in the form of complex treatment in relation to the spine, joints, ligaments, muscles and as a result of neurological diseases. The treatment technique has much in common with massage, but there are also differences: limited localization of the areas of implementation and the intensity of the force impact. Professional manual therapy can quickly eliminate pain in the lumbar spine, since its main force is aimed at restoring the functionality of the intervertebral joints, which, accordingly, increases the elasticity of the muscular-ligamentous apparatus.
• health-improving physical education,
• healthy lifestyle.

Traditional medicine usually uses the same treatment methods as for scoliosis.

5. Treatment of lumbago requires an individual approach. The most important thing in this case is to strictly follow a diet that excludes spicy, smoked and salty dishes; useful: potatoes, cereals, vegetable soups. The treatment complex includes:

• reflexology,
• manual therapy,
• physiotherapy,
• water treatments,
• vacuum therapy,
• mud therapy,
• spa therapy.

If we talk about drug treatment, it is impossible to give precise instructions, since, as already mentioned above, we are talking about an individual approach, that is, based on the results of the examination.

Traditional medicine recommends using the following methods as an additional treatment, which in combination with traditional medicine quickly eliminates pain in the lumbar spine:

• constant wearing of a belt knitted from dog hair,
• the lower back is lubricated with turpentine - 5 g. Immediately after this, the lumbar area is insulated, where rye dough is applied to the same part of the body, cotton wool is applied on top, and then this whole "system" is covered with oilcloth. Wear for about an hour. Then the oilcloth is removed along with the cotton wool and dough. Turpentine is removed with a napkin. This manipulation is done for 3 days.

If the patient feels a strong burning sensation at this moment, then he should not tolerate it; he must remove the compress and thoroughly wash the lumbar region.

6. Treatment of radiculitis consists of a gentle home regimen, so as not to provoke or increase pain in the lumbar spine. But, here, relative bed rest, its duration should not exceed 5 days.

Early stages of radiculitis are treated by local application of dry cold or heat for 20 minutes up to 6 times a day. For pain relief, a tight bandage is also applied around the painful area.

Drug treatment:

• painkillers: Ketorolac, Diclofenac, Indomethacin, etc.

Other treatment methods include procedures similar to those used for therapeutic solutions to osteochondrosis, kyphosis, scoliosis, and lumbago.

In folk medicine, one of the most effective methods of treatment is known: a bandage made of dog hair.

In fact, there are many ways to eliminate pain. The main thing is to know your diagnosis exactly. And when the problem is studied, its solution will come by itself.

Prevention of pain in the lumbar spine

Is it possible to prevent lumbar spine pain? Yes, but it should be taken into account that there are some things beyond our control, such as congenital disease, genetic predisposition, injuries. And yet, many diseases are acquired over the years, for the appearance of which we ourselves are to blame. There is a small set of rules that will help protect yourself from this kind of pain.

1. Correct posture. In this position, the spine and its segments are in the right position for health. It is formed when we walk, when we sit, and especially when we sleep. That is, what do we need to fulfill the standard requirements regarding posture?
   • comfortable furniture: chairs, armchairs, sofas, beds, etc. The back of a chair or armchair should not be too short. A person sitting, leaning on the back of a chair, should position his body so that his back (from the hip to the neck) is parallel to the back of the chair, without taking an arched shape. As for sofas, it is comfortable to sit on them in a reclining position to watch TV, sleep or just sit. But working at a computer, bent over, is very harmful to the spine. The choice of beds today is simply huge: round, and bunk, and wooden, and so on. But we manage to choose the one that is least suitable for the formation of correct posture. Now we are talking about inflatable beds; water mattresses; beds with artificial fillers, which during use acquire the shape of lumps. The back needs a hard surface, which can be created by orthopedic mattresses (preferably springless),
   • correct carrying of bags, backpacks, packages, etc. A bag that is too heavy when carried for a long time on one shoulder or in one hand can provoke the appearance of asymmetry in relation to the shoulders, which automatically causes pain in the lumbar spine. Accordingly, when making large purchases, the purchased goods should be distributed among the packages in such a way that each hand has approximately the same load. If this action is impossible, then it is necessary to periodically “change hands”, that is, carry the purchases with the right hand, and then with the left, and vice versa,
2. "Sedentary" work. Of course, telling drivers or accountants "more movement" makes no sense, since, anyway, they spend most of their time in the same position. But still, you can sit in different ways or at least change your position. Here, you should find at least 10 minutes every hour to get up and "warm up". But at home, it would not be superfluous to do simple physical exercises that warm up the back muscles. Massage will also be very useful,
3. Work that requires intense loads is most often the cause of back problems. When applying for such a job, it is necessary to carefully read the employment contract and similar documents, which specify the requirements regarding the maximum volume of physical activity. It is clear that in our time many things are done "on the word of honor" without documents, and the family needs to be fed, in general, there is no time to find something normal. But you need to understand that you can't buy health,
4. Shoes are a problem for many generations, especially for women. Shoes, first of all, should be comfortable. Shoes with too high heels, and even a size too small on rocky roads, are a sure way to foot and back diseases. High heels are not intended for long-term and constant wear. And in this situation, other factors should be taken into account: age, weight (no offense), pregnancy, flat feet, scoliosis, etc. Tight shoes can squeeze nerve endings, veins, muscles, which also leads to a number of significant problems,
5. Sports and water treatments (swimming) have always been the best means to prevent pain in the lumbar spine. But here too, one should not overdo it, as excessive efforts can only worsen the situation, for example, muscle or ligament strain.