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Lumbago

Sources: Papers On Health

Lumbago differs from both paralysis and cramp of the lower

back in that it is not chiefly nervous, as these are, but is a trouble

in the muscular substance itself. The muscles are either sprained or

chilled, so as to have lost for the time their elasticity. Blistering,

burning, and all such irritating treatment are only so many helps to

the disease. The true method is found in gentle moist heating of the

lower back by a BRAN POULTICE (see), not too hot, but renewed, if

need be, for an hour each evening. Follow this up with a rubbing with

hot olive oil. Wear a belt of new flannel round the body night and day

in winter, or if exposed to cold. The treatment is simple, but if

persevered in, cures most obstinate cases.



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