Homoeopathic Remedies for Backache
Also indexed as: Lower Back Ache, Pain (Back)
Many different factors can contribute to back pain. Injury, overwork, emotional and mental
stress, menstrual tension, prostate conditions, and problems with posture or weight are common
causes. Homoeopathy can offer safe and effective pain relief for many kinds of backaches. If
problems are extreme, consult a licensed healthcare professional with experience in spinal
care.
For dosage information, please read the information at the end of this section. See also
“Using Homoeopathy With Professional Guidance” in What Is Homoeopathy?
Aesculus: Pain in the very low back (the sacral or sacroiliac areas) that feels
worse when standing up from a sitting position, and worse from stooping, may be eased with
this remedy. Aesculus is especially indicated for people with low back pain who also
have a tendency toward venous congestion and haemorrhoids.
Arnica: Arnica is a remedy with a well-known reputation for its usefulness
in injuries and pain to soft tissue and muscles. Applied topically in either gel or ointment
form (and in conjunction with internal use of Arnica 6c), topical Arnica can
be useful for relieving pain.
Bryonia: This remedy is indicated when back pain is worse from even the slightest
motion. Changing position, coughing, turning, or walking may bring on sharp, excruciating
pain. This remedy can be helpful for back pain after injury and backaches during illness.
Calcarea carbonica: This remedy is often useful for low back pain and muscle
weakness, especially in a person who is chilly, flabby or overweight, and easily tired by
exertion. Chronic low back pain and muscle weakness may lead to inflammation and soreness that
are aggravated by dampness and cold.
Calcarea phosphorica: Stiffness and soreness of the spinal muscles and joints,
especially in the neck and upper back, may be relieved by this remedy. The person feels worse
from drafts and cold, as well as from exertion. Aching in the bones and feelings of weariness
and dissatisfaction are often seen in people who need this remedy.
Cimicifuga (also called Actaea racemosa): Severe aching and stiffness in the upper
back and neck, as well as the lower back—with pains that extend down the thighs or
across the hips — may be eased with this remedy. It is often helpful for back pain
during menstrual periods, with cramping, heaviness, and soreness. A person who needs this
remedy typically is talkative and energetic, becoming agitated or depressed when ill.
Dulcamara: If back pain sets in during cold damp weather, along with catching a
cold, or after getting wet and chilled, this remedy may be indicated. Stiffness and chills can
be felt in the back, and pain is usually worse from stooping.
Ignatia: Back pains related to emotional upsets—especially grief—will
often respond to this remedy. Thee muscles of the lower back may spasm, and twitches, drawing
pains, and cramps often occur in other areas.
Kali carbonicum: This remedy may be indicated if low back pain drives the person out
of bed at night, making it necessary to get up to be able to turn over. Pain is usually worse
on the right side of the lower back, worse around the menstrual period, and aggravated by
sitting and by walking. Pressure on the area often brings relief.
Natrum muriaticum: Back pain that improves from lying on something hard or pressing
a hard object (such as a block or book) against the painful area suggests a need for this
remedy. The person often seems reserved or formal, but has strong emotions that are kept from
others. Back pain from suppressed emotions, especially hurt or anger, may respond to
Natrum muriaticum.
Nux vomica: This remedy is indicated for muscle cramps or constricting pains in the
back. Discomfort is made worse by cold and relieved by warmth. Pain usually is worse night,
and the person may have to sit up in bed to turn over. Backache is also worse during
constipation, and the pain is aggravated when the person feels the urge to move the
bowels.
Rhus toxicodendron: This remedy can be useful for pain in the neck and shoulders as
well as the lower back, when the pain is worse on initial movement and improves with continued
motion. Even though in pain, the person finds it hard to lie down or stay still for very long,
and often restlessly paces about. Aching and stiffness are aggravated in cold damp weather and
relieved by warm applications, baths or showers, and massage.
Ruta graveolens: This remedy is indicated when tremendous stiffness is felt in the
muscles or joints, especially after sprains or twisting injuries. The person feels lame and
sore, and experiences relief from lying down.
Sulphur: This remedy is often indicated when a person with back pain has a slouching
posture. The back is weak and the person feels much worse from standing up for any length of
time. Pain is also worse from stooping. Warmth may aggravate the pain and inflammation.
Homoeopathy Dosage Directions
Select the remedy that most closely matches the symptoms. In conditions where
self-treatment is appropriate, unless otherwise directed by a physician, a lower potency (6X,
6C, 12X, 12C, 30X, or 30C) should be used. In addition, instructions for use are usually
printed on the label.
Many homoeopathic physicians suggest that remedies be used as follows: Take one dose and
wait for a response. If improvement is seen, continue to wait and let the remedy work. If
improvement lags significantly or has clearly stopped, another dose may be taken. The
frequency of dosage varies with the condition and the individual. Sometimes a dose may be
required several times an hour; other times a dose may be indicated several times a day; and
in some situations, one dose per day (or less) can be sufficient.
If no response is seen within a reasonable amount of time, select a different remedy.
For more information, including references, see What is Homoeopathy? and Understanding Homoeopathic Potencies.
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The information presented in Healthnotes is for informational purposes
only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical
experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not
necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with
prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor,
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making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires March 2007.