Tips for preventing and curing back pain

Many people suffer from back pain. In addition to the sporting activities, there are other ways to prevent back pain. If you are unfortunate enough to have a cricked back (lumbago), here's some handy advice to help you relieve the pain.

1. Spread the loads you have to carry over both sides of your body. To lift a heavy object, squat down and straighten up, keeping the back straight; it should be your legs that bear the weight.
2. Avoid the cold and drafts flowing over the back.
3. If your mattress is sagging, get rid of it and don't try to scrimp when buying a new one — it must be good quality, neither too hard nor too soft.
4. Replace all of your old seats.
5. While sitting, a triangular cushion will help you to sit up straight.
6. If you work sitting down, change positions often. Get up every 30 minutes, stretch out, and relax your muscles.
7. Wear comfortable shoes as often as possible, preferably with an insole, and avoid high heels.

Lumbago differs from everyday back pain by the suddenness of its appearance.

• Here are four effective and easy ways to help heal your lumbago faster:

A massage with ahot towel is always good. Once the outer towel is cold, remove it and continue with the massage.

Moist heat helps to relieve lumbago.

• Prepare a compress by mixing 200 milliliters (7/8 cup) of body lotion with the following essential oils: 10 drops of lavender, eight drops of chamomile, eight drops of cedar, four drops of juniper and four drops of clary sage.
• Spread 30 milliliters (two tablespoons) of this preparation on a cloth previously dipped in hot water and wrung out well, apply on the painful area, then place a dry towel over it.
• Do this treatment several times a day.

A verbena poultice is very effective against lumbago; it also relieves other back pain.

• Mix a handful of dried verbena with egg white, 15 grams (one tablespoon) of flour and 30 milliliters (two tablespoons) of warm water.
• Fold a cotton cloth several times to match the size of the painful area and spread the mixture on it.
• Place it in the upturned lid of a pot. Bring water to a boil, then put the upturned lid on the pot to warm the poultice.
• Place it on a small spelt heating pillow and lie down gently on it, on your back.
• Cover up with a woolen blanket and remain lying down for as long as possible.

Large adhesive bandages contain compounds such as capsaicin, which stimulates blood circulation, and can heat the muscle over a long time.

As a disc herniation produces similar symptoms, it is imperative to consult a doctor if pain persists beyond a few days.