The keynotes of backache: How to relieve back pain with homeopathy
The big story today is Winter Storm Juno. While many on the east coast and parts of New England have been spared the full brunt of the blizzard, others in Massachusettes and Rhode Island will be digging out of a nasty mess. Regardless of where you are, it's an ideal time to discuss the keynotes of backaches, and how to relieve back pain with homeopathy. While slipping on the ice, or improper shovelling techniques can certainly lead to back pain, the causes are numerous, and the specific symptoms come in many shapes and sizes. According to Web MD, back pain is a symptom, not a disease and according to Chiropractic Economics Magazine, it's the single leading cause of disability in the world. Here's a closer look at common "keynotes" for back pain symptoms and the homeopathic remedies that can help relieve back pain.
First Response:
Arnica montana: Arnica is the #1 First Aid homeopathic remedy, and the go to item for aches and pains, backache included. Arnica can safely speed healing and reduce symptoms of trauma, bruising and swelling due to diverse injuries: blows, falls, sprains, strains, twists and turns included. Its healing benefits expected injuries as well, such as dental work, childbirth, etc. A dose before you shovel certainly cannot hurt. FYI: A dose of aspirin before you exert yourself is not recommended as it can hide the pain that you need to listen to in order to stop when your back says stop.
Back feels stiff:
Cold air triggers pain - Aconite - An important keynote for Aconite is "Sudden Onset." Boericke also writes that Aconite's "complaints and tension" are triggered by "dry, cold weather, and draft of cold air." Think of Aconite when "back feels numb, with a crawling, tingling sensation, as if bruised, and when stiffness extends to the nape of the neck."
Worse with motion - Bryonia is nick-named the "Grumpy Bear" remedy because it applies best when stress or illness sets off a grumpy irritability that refuses comfort and does not want to be spoken to, bothered or moved in any way. Its 'keynote' symptom 'pain worse from slightest movement' applies to its back strain stitching pains which mostly affect the lower back and want pressure but not movement; an ice pack is often welcome, too.
Better from motion - Rhus tox specializes in strain or injury, stiff necks, lower back pain, minor arthritic irritations, etc., that feel worse on first motion but then enjoy a gentle walk or stretch. They also like lying on a hard surface or bending backwards. Other symptoms and characteristics that indicate Rhus include: a desire for fresh, but not cold, air, a worsening of symptoms at night and with cold damp weather (storm predictors), a frequent desire to stretch and sleep disturbed by dreams of exertion.
Back Pain from injuries:
with bruising and soreness - Arnica:
with shooting, radiating pain - Hypericum: Too painful is Hypericum's trademark. It is the first aid remedy for pain that just feels too painful, like when the ice lets you land on the concrete you've already shoveled and your coccyx or spine will not forgive you. Instead it sends sharp, shooting, tearing pain that will not let you go. If it hasn't forgiven you since that snow storm a few years ago, you might find a companion in Hypericum.
with minor swelling: Ferrum phos: Between the fact that it is made from a mineral compound which helps the body build strong blood cells and that its most prominent symptom is a 'lack of notable symptoms', this cell salt is a very helpful companion. Individual complains of "Crick in back which may be accompanied by a stiff neck, and minor rheumatic pain in shoulder. Palms are hot, and hands are swollen and painful."
from strains and sprains: Ruta grav:The sprain expert, Ruta, helps backs that only enjoy movement if the strain is pretty mild. It's expertise is back pain where weakness or strained ligaments cause a bruised aching pain "as if beaten." Turning, bending and stepping down hard are not welcome, but lying on the back can feel best.
Back Pain and muscle cramps:
Mag phos: The #1 remedy indicated for "cramps and muscle tension". Whether injury leads to muscle tension and tension to cramps and radiating shooting stabbing pains or the injury is to the muscle itself and causes those woes, this cell salt can be a great reliever and calmer downer. If the best relief is applied heat, that's Mag phos.
Please note: these statements are based upon traditional homeopathic practice. They have not been reviewed by the Food and Drug Administration.
