HOMEOPATHIC TREATMENT OF SPONDYLOSIS (SPINAL OSTEOARTHRITIS)

Living with Spondylosis can be tremendously painful. Our spine is made up of a number of bones known as vertebrae. Between two consecutive vertebrae there is a cushion like substance called intervertebral disc. Spondylosis is a common degenerative condition of the intervertebral disc due to subsequent biochemical changes in the bones and soft tissues. This affects the normal spinal structure and function of the cervical (neck), thoracic (chest area), and lumbar (low back) spine. As biochemical changes transpire, collagen - a crucial structural element of the intervertebral disc is affected by the loss of water content which causes the discs to weaken and shrink in height escalating the risk for disc bulging and herniation. The cartilage covering joint surface erodes causing the spine’s ligaments to thicken and lose strength. In an effort to repair itself, the body forms bone spurs (osteophytes) and the joints enlarge causing osteoarthritis or degenerative joint disease.

Causes:

  • Congenital (from birth).
  • Heredity.
  • Sedentary life.
  • Fall or injury.
  • Trauma from carrying heavy loads, excessive dancing, violent exercises or gymnastics.
  • Wrong positions in sitting, standing or sleeping.
  • Aging.
  • Smoking.
  • Diseases of bones.
  • Drugs affecting bones.

Symptoms:

  • Pain, tenderness and stiffness in the neck, shoulder, arm or low back.
  • Weakness and numbness in the neck, shoulder, arms or legs.
  • Chest pain or breast pain.
  • Morning stiffness.
  • Restricted movement, difficulty bending or walking.
  • Asymmetry in the legs with an unbalanced gait.
  • Headaches at the back of head.
  • Vertigo and loss of balance.
  • Swallowing difficulty.
  • Loss of bladder or bowel control.
  • Irritability and sleeplessness due to excessive pain.

Homeopathic approach to Spondylosis:

Homeopathic treatment can contribute to an effective and safe cure in preliminary stage of Spondylosis. In chronic cases of Spondylosis, Homeopathy can reduce overcrowding of the spine, compression of the nerves and also conclude the progressive degenerative changes. In very advanced cases of structural damage like a badly deformed spine, Homeopathic remedies along with a correct posture can facilitate in living better without any complaints or pain. We can aim for near normal in all other cases. The outcome of Homoeopathy in managing Spondylosis will be remarkable compared to other system of medicines or surgical interventions.

Some Homeopathic remedies that are commonly used to treat Spondylosis are given below. These remedies are just a few of the commonly used Homeopathic remedies and are mentioned only to create awareness about the effectiveness of Homeopathic medicines in Spondylosis. It is not advisable to resort to self-medication for any disease.

Homeopathic remedies for Spondylosis:

Arnica: This is an outstanding muscular remedy for rheumatism of muscular and tendinous tissue especially of back and shoulders caused after traumatic injury to the back and neck. Pain is sore, bruised and is worse from slightest touch and motion, every surface feels too hard. Patient is not able to walk erect due to the bruised pain in pelvic region.

Bryonia: This is another excellent remedy for Spondylosis where the symptoms are usually right sided. Pain is stitching, tearing, worse by slightest motion, better at rest and lying on painful side. This remedy is best suited for dark complexioned people with a tendency to leanness and irritability. There is painful stiffness in nape of neck and small of back which is worse from changes in weather. Every spot is painful on pressure.

Cimicifuga Racemosa: This remedy has an immense action upon the cerebrospinal and muscular system. Its muscular and crampy pains like electric shock are characteristic. Upper part of spine is very sensitive with stiffness and contraction in the neck and back. There may also be pain in the lumbar and sacral region, down the thighs, and through hips with a very uneasy, restless feeling in the limbs. The pain is worse from cold, in the morning and during menses, it is better from warmth.

Gnaphalium: This remedy works wonders for chronic pain with numbness in the lower part of back and calves with a sensation of weight and fullness in pelvis. This pain is better resting on back, drawing limbs up, flexing thigh on abdomen.

Rhododendron: This is another brilliant remedy for painful stiffness of neck and shoulders radiating to the arms and wrists especially of the right side. The symptoms are worse in hot weather, before a storm, at rest and are better after the storm breaks and after eating. The patient is unable to sleep unless legs are crossed.

Rhus Tox: This remedy is indicated for Osteoarthritic tearing pains and stiffness after a neck or back surgery, from strains or over lifting. Pain is always better on continuous motion, lying on a hard surface, while sitting and from a change of position, it is worse in cold wet weather, lying on back and during rest.

Self Care measures:

  • Bed rest when needed.
  • Gentle stretching exercises.
  • Maintain good posture while sitting, standing and sleeping.
  • Do not be in one position for a long time.
  • Avoid heavy lifting and activities that aggravate pain or other symptoms.
  • Use seat belts in vehicles and keep headrests at proper heights.
  • Try to keep your weight close to ideal.
  • Stop smoking.
  • Avoid violent massages.
  • Avoid cold exposures and cold bath
  • Avoid citrus fruits since they can precipitate pain.
  • Hot showers will help in relieving pain.

Hence, every individual suffering from Spondylosis must consider Homeopathy to provide relief and/or lifetime cure. Homeopathic treatment can change a person’s life from one of distress to one of health.

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About the author:

Neepa Sevak is an experienced, registered Homeopath with the Arizona Homeopathic Board of Medical Examiners. She is currently practicing Classical Homeopathy at the Desert Institute of Classical Homeopathy. Her mission is to “Promote Health through Homeopathy with a Holistic, Totalistic, and Individualistic approach”.

Phone: (480) 363 0758

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