LUMBAGO

Rodney and Otamatea Times, Waitemata and Kaipara Gazette, 17 February 1915, Page 2

LUMBAGO

Lumbago is a form of muscular rheumatism, the pain and stiffness being situated in the muscles of the back. It may be caused by a chill, especially after prolonged physical exertion, where the body has been bathed with profuse perspiration. It may also be caused by a severe strain to the muscles of the back clue to lifting heavy weights. The pain, as a rule, comes on suddenly in the small of the back, an<3 the part affected is extremely tender. Movement increases the pain, especially such movements as bending or straightening the back. In severe cases it is almost impossible to maintain an erect position. The attack lasts generally for two or three days, but it may be prolonged for several weeks, and a patient who is liable to attacks of lumbago always suffers more in damp, cold weather, although sometimes any irregularity of diet will induce an attack. Rest in bed is the best remedy. The room should be warm, but well ventilated. Hot fomentations and poultices will sometimes ease the pain. A Turkish bath is of value, and will often cure an attack at once. Hot bottles or bags of hot bran applied to the back will often relieve the pain locally. The medical attendant will prescribe a suitable lotion for rubbing over the small of the back. The diet is very important, and should be very simple. Butcher's meat must be avoided, and milk should be taken in sufficient quantities to well flush th* kidneys. The same food as that allowed for rheumatic patients would be suitable for one suffering from lumbago. Epsom salts taken in small daily doses, is of great value as it is an excellent anti-acid. 864