Lumbago, also known as 'sciatica' in the lumbar region, is a painful condition characterized by distinct pain in the lower back radiating into the leg. A factor suggesting the development of the disease is trauma or degenerative pathological changes in the spine. Treatment of lumbago in Israel is conducted according to a comprehensive scheme, which includes medication courses aimed at relieving pain and physiotherapeutic methods. After normalizing the condition, patients are prescribed therapeutic exercises and limited physical activities that strengthen the muscles, increase the elasticity of the spinal ligaments, and stimulate regenerative processes.
A positive prognosis is noted in almost 98% of patients with timely therapy. For the development and implementation of an effective treatment program at the initial stages of the disease, accurate diagnosis is necessary, which is ensured in Israeli medical centers through examinations using the latest equipment. In most cases, highly qualified experienced diagnostic doctors make a diagnosis by studying clinical signs, after which they confirm it through modern diagnostic equipment. Numerous positive reviews confirm that treatment and subsequent rehabilitation take place in comfortable conditions, significantly increasing the effectiveness of therapy and preventing the development of new attacks. Medical tourists are also attracted by the affordable cost, which, with similar quality of services provided, is significantly lower than in leading clinics in other countries.
Treatment Methods for the Disease
Since there are various causes for the development of lumbago, the occurrence of the pathology is determined by a combination of factors, the main one being osteochondrosis and intervertebral hernia. The development of the pathology is facilitated by sudden hypothermia, especially after prior warming, excessive physical load, and maintaining an uncomfortable body position for an extended period. Primary lumbago, caused by age-related changes in the spine, and secondary lumbago, which manifests as a complication of some disease, are distinguished. Statistically, the overwhelming majority of patients are diagnosed with secondary lumbago.
A characteristic symptom of the pathology is severe, often unbearable pain that occurs at the moment of load or shortly after the action of a stimulating factor. The pain immobilizes the patient, forcing them to freeze in an uncomfortable position, sometimes falling. The muscles of the lumbar region are tense, and the patient cannot bend or sit without leaning on their hands. The pain shoots through, radiating into the lower limbs and nearby organs. Attacks of lumbago vary in duration: from two to three minutes to several hours, with the pain syndrome being so pronounced that urgent medical assistance is required.
The therapeutic process aims to eliminate the causes of lumbago. During the first stage of therapy, painful symptoms are alleviated, pain is reduced, and inflammation and swelling are relieved. The methods and treatment regimen depend on the stage of the disease (acute period or time between attacks).
Treatment in the Acute Period
During an exacerbation, the patient is required to adhere to bed rest. Any sudden movements that could exacerbate existing pain and provoke a new attack are strictly prohibited. The bed on which the patient lies should be moderately firm, without sagging springs or a soft uneven mattress. To relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and swelling, the following types of medications are used:
- analgesics and other pain relievers;
- non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs);
- spasmolytic agents;
- subcutaneous novocaine blockade — the introduction of an analgesic drug subcutaneously, covering the entire area of the affected site;
- local application of warming gels and ointments.
Therapeutic massage, UV irradiation, and a number of other physiotherapeutic procedures also contribute to symptom relief. It is recommended to apply an ice pack to the lower back area during an attack or provide cold exposure in another available way. It is extremely important to strictly adhere to bed rest, carefully follow all doctor's instructions, and accurately adhere to the prescribed dosage of medications.
Treatment During the Period Between Exacerbations
During remission, observed between attacks of lumbago, the patient is prescribed treatment aimed at eliminating the underlying cause of the disorder, which is most often osteochondrosis. Various physiotherapeutic methods that improve blood circulation and lymph flow, accelerate the development and course of regenerative processes, eliminate pain syndrome and swelling of soft tissues are found to be the most effective. As a result, the patient's lost work capacity is restored after a short period.
Treatment of Advanced Forms of the Disease
In cases of prolonged disease progression, complications in the form of herniation or compression of spinal nerve roots are considered for surgical treatment. Minimally invasive surgeries are performed to remove the displaced intervertebral disc and stabilize the affected segment of the spine.
Additionally, during an acute attack of lumbago caused by subluxation of the intervertebral joint or capsule compression, painful symptoms are quickly alleviated through spinal traction.
The treatment regimen includes the following physical methods:
- electrophoresis;
- darsonvalization;
- magnetotherapy;
- diadynamic therapy;
- low-frequency laser therapy;
- acupuncture;
- manual therapy;
- massage (classical relaxing, back and cervical areas);
- post-isometric relaxation;
- mud therapy;
- applications with medicinal herbs on the lower back area.
To enhance the effectiveness of treatment, it is recommended to use manual therapy in conjunction with therapeutic massage and acupuncture.
After alleviating severe pain and eliminating the inflammatory process, the patient is prescribed therapeutic exercises. Moderate and specially selected physical loads positively affect the structure and functionality of the cartilaginous structures of the spine and soft tissues of the lumbar region.
Thanks to therapeutic physical education:
- the back muscles that form the framework that holds the vertebrae in a certain position and prevents the formation of intervertebral hernias are strengthened;
- regenerative processes are activated;
- metabolic processes are stimulated;
- the elasticity of spinal cartilages and ligaments is increased;
- excessive muscle tension is relieved;
- motor functions are restored.
Patients with lumbago are advised to visit the seaside at least twice a year, where the dry, hot climate and seawater alleviate painful symptoms, improve metabolism, and contribute to faster recovery.
How the Diagnosis of the Disease is Conducted
To establish a diagnosis and develop the most effective treatment program, an examination is necessary, which takes no more than three days in clinics in Israel.
Upon arrival at the clinic, the patient must visit the treating neurologist. During the initial consultation, the doctor asks the patient about the nature and duration of the attacks, the time of their first appearance, occupation, and any likely heavy lifting or other active physical work. Typically, a precise diagnosis can be made based on certain clinical signs. After gathering the medical history and conducting a neurological examination, the specialist compiles a list of necessary examinations.
Performing the examinations listed in the prescriptions:
- computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the lumbar spine;
- spondylography;
- lumbar puncture with subsequent laboratory analysis of the obtained cerebrospinal fluid (CSF);
- myelography (radiological examination of the spine performed after spinal puncture).
The completed research results are submitted for review by a medical commission consisting of a neurologist and specialized specialists. Based on the results, the doctors determine the diagnosis and prescribe a treatment plan.
How Much Does Treatment of the Disease Cost
One of the most interesting questions for medical tourists is the price of the treatment course. As noted, when undergoing therapy in Israel, a foreign patient can save about 30% of the amount that would be required in Western European clinics, and approximately 50% of what they would have to pay in the USA.
Advantages of Treatment in Israel
- Qualified experienced doctors.
- Modern medical equipment.
- Use of the latest generation of medications.
- Comprehensive rehabilitation.
- Affordable prices.
Timely therapy ensures complete recovery for almost all patients. Therefore, choose a clinic and successfully restore your health under the guidance of world-class doctors.