Lower back pain (lumbago) is an intense pain in the back and waist, but it can sometimes also be felt in the thighs and buttocks. It is usually caused by repetitive poor posture, excessive strain, or muscle injuries. Combating lower back pain requires consistency and persistence.
Lower back pain (lumbago) often occurs after a fall or a hard blow to the back. However, it can also appear after improper exercise, lifting heavy weights, or maintaining poor posture for extended periods.
Types of lumbago
To combat lower back pain, it’s important to know the different types. Based on their characteristics, this discomfort can be classified as follows.
Occasional lumbago
This refers to pain that appears in the lower back after sudden exertion or adopting a poor posture. It’s a discomfort that disappears on its own and lasts between 3 and 4 days.
Chronic or recurring lower back pain
If these episodes of lower back pain occur frequently and last more than 12 weeks, they can develop into chronic lower back pain. It is estimated that 20% of cases become chronic. It is also associated with pregnancy, being overweight, osteoarthritis, and even emotional stress.
To combat lower back pain, it’s essential to correct poor posture and avoid situations that trigger the pain. These are the first steps to pain relief, but it’s also important to consider whether physiotherapy is beneficial.
Natural remedies
The following natural remedies may complement the treatment for lower back pain. They should never be considered the sole option, and medical consultation is essential in each case.
1. White willow
Salicylate derivatives of willow bark are anti-inflammatory, especially in the joints. They also affect pain and fever.
Therefore, willow can be used as an adjunct treatment for inflammatory conditions. It also relieves joint pain, making it very useful for combating lower back pain.
As an infusion, it can be taken in combination with other plants that enhance its action and improve the flavor, such as yarrow, mint, viburnum, and horsetail.
2. Ginger
Ginger is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, which make it effective in combating lower back pain. It can be used for lumbago as an infusion or poultice.
For an infusion, use two tablespoons in half a liter of water. Once prepared, you can drink it or soak a gauze pad in the mixture and apply it to the affected area.
In addition, it is useful for its relaxing, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic effects. Another way to use it is through a gentle massage. To do this, mix 5 drops of essential oil with 10 drops of sweet almond oil.
How to prevent lower back pain from recurring?
We recommend avoiding stress. This is one of the main causes of muscle tension in the back. You can also drink herbal teas made with lemon balm or lavender, which will help you relax and prevent tension caused by emotional stress.
When you notice your lower back is tight, sit in a chair and bend forward until your torso is resting on your legs. Hold this position for a few seconds. Physical therapy, rehabilitation exercises, acupuncture, and relaxation therapies, such as yoga or tai chi, are some of the practices that are effective for both treating and preventing lower back pain.
Remember that to avoid lower back pain and maintain a healthy back, you should maintain a healthy weight and exercise regularly, such as swimming. You should also try to adopt a correct posture.
