A large placebo-controlled trial (1650 patients) carried out at the George Institute for Global Health in Sydney, Australia demonstrated that taking paracetamol does not speed recovery or reduce back pain when compared with placebo. The researchers conclude that patients should remain active and wait to get better while perhaps using a heat pack.
Alternatively they could consider using herbal medicines. A Cochrane review (http://summaries.cochrane.org/CD004504/herbal-medicine-for-low-back-pain) has shown three herbal medicines to be effective in treating episodes of back pain The herbs tested were oral administration of Devil’s Claw
(Harpagophytum procumbens ) and White Willow Bark (Salix alba), and topical application of Cayenne (Capsicum frutescens ). The review contained ten randomized controlled trials that included 1567 adults with non-specific acute or chronic low back pain. All three herbs reduced pain in comparison to placebo.
The herbs selected by a Medical Herbalist depend on the particular presentation of each individual patient but would aim to relieve pain, decrease inflammation, reduce muscle spasm, promote healing, improve circulation and maintain stamina.
Alternatively they could consider using herbal medicines. A Cochrane review (http://summaries.cochrane.org/CD004504/herbal-medicine-for-low-back-pain) has shown three herbal medicines to be effective in treating episodes of back pain The herbs tested were oral administration of Devil’s Claw
(Harpagophytum procumbens ) and White Willow Bark (Salix alba), and topical application of Cayenne (Capsicum frutescens ). The review contained ten randomized controlled trials that included 1567 adults with non-specific acute or chronic low back pain. All three herbs reduced pain in comparison to placebo.
The herbs selected by a Medical Herbalist depend on the particular presentation of each individual patient but would aim to relieve pain, decrease inflammation, reduce muscle spasm, promote healing, improve circulation and maintain stamina.
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