Do you know how to treat lumbago?

Lumbago is a blanket term for pain in the lower back (or lumbar region) rather than a medical diagnosis. Learn more about it and how you can keep it in check.

Lumbago differs from "normal" back pain because it happens suddenly. A cold draft, jerky movement or combination of bending and twisting can trigger an abrupt pain deep in your back muscles. However, a slipped disc also has similar symptoms; if you don't feel better after a few days, consult a doctor. Here are some remedies.

• Try a back massage. Before beginning the massage, warm the lower back with a warm rolled towel. Aim for warm, not hot, and don't heat it for too long. Remove the roll before beginning.
• Moist heat is particularly helpful for lumbago. To make a wrap, mix together 10 drops of lavender oil, eight drops each of chamomile oil and cedar oil, plus four drops each of juniper oil and clary sage oil with 200 millilitres (seven ounces) of body lotion. Dribble 30 millilitres (two tablespoons) of the mixture onto a cloth soaked in hot water — and wrung out — and apply to the painful area. Spread a dry cloth over it and cover with a wool blanket. Repeat several times daily.
• A verbena wrap soothes all kinds of back pains, including lumbago. Stir together a handful of verbena with one egg yolk, 15 grams (one tablespoon) flour, and 30 millilitres (two tablespoons) of warm water. Fold a cotton towel to fit the size of the painful area. Sprinkle with the verbena mixture, place it over a pot lid, and warm it over steam. Place a hot spelt cushion onto an exercise mat, spread the cotton cloth over it (with the verbena facing upward), and carefully lie down with your lower back on it. Cover up with a blanket and lie as long as possible on the hot underlay.
• Large adhesive bandages used with compounds like capsaicin that stimulate circulation can continue to warm the muscles for a long time.