Be Healthy

HOMEOPATHY

Select an appropriate symptom-specific remedy and, while the pain is acute, take one dose, as directed on the product label, every fifteen minutes for one hour. Once your symptoms start to improve, cut back to one dose three times daily. If your symptoms do not start to improve after twenty-four hours, discontinue the remedy and try another.

Arnica 30x or 15c is the remedy of choice for acute pain.
Berberis vulgaris 6x or 3c is particularly helpful for lower back pain, especially if the urine is concentrated and has a strong odor.

• Bryonia 12x or 6c relieves pain that is worsened by movement, and that is usually concentrated on the right side. The pain may be accompanied by constipation.

• Rhus toxicodendron 12x or 6c is helpful for pain that is relieved by moving around, and is usually concentrated on the left side.

NUTRITIONAL SUPPLEMENTS

• Calcium is required by the nerves and muscles; magnesium plays an important role in neuromuscular contractions and helps ensure regular bowel movements. Take 1,000 milligrams of calcium and 500 milligrams of magnesium daily. If your back pain is accompanied by constipation, increase the amount of magnesium to 1,000 milligrams daily.

• Glucosamine sulfate helps to relieve inflammation, strengthen the integrity of the joints, and enhance circulation in the muscles. Take 500 milligrams three times a day.

• Lower back pain sometimes benefits from high doses of vitamin C. Take 1,000 milligrams of vitamin C and an equal amount of bioflavonoids three times daily.

HERBAL TREATMENT

• Pine-bark and grape-seed extracts are high in natural bioflavonoids that fight inflammation. Take 50 to 75 milligrams of either three times daily.

• Valerian is a calmative herb that can help if you have difficulty relaxing. It is especially useful if you have a problem falling asleep. Choose a standardized extract containing 0.5 percent isovalerenic acids and take 200 to 300 milligrams one-half hour before bedtime.