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.