LUMBAGO (Lat., disease or weakness of the loins). A very common and painful affection of the muscles of the loins and their tendinous at tachments. It comes on suddenly, and in very severe cases completely incapacitates the patient, who may be unable to turn in bed or to rise from the sitting position. It is caused generally by conditions favorable to the development of rheu matism. such as cold and exposure. It may fol low exposure to a draught of air. Alen, especially laborers. and those of a rheumatic or gouty habit, are more prone to this affection. (Mc attack renders- the sufferer more liable to others. The affection may become subacute or even chronic. The pain is often very severe; it may be a dull ache. but is usually sharp and cramp-like. It may be constant, or may oceur only when the muscles are contracted by an effort to move. The affection may last for a few hours, or it may be prolonged for several weeks. Pressure on the affected part usually gives relief. It may be
distinguished from kidney disease by the nausea, vomiting, chills, fever, condition of the urine, and other characteristics of the latter. In the treat ment of lumbago, rest is of the first importance. Acupuncture is a very efficient means of relief. Sterilized needles, from three to four inches in length, are thrust into the lumbar muscles at the seat of the pain. and withdrawn after five or ten minutes; in many instances this treatment gives immediate relief. The constant galvanic eurrent is sometimes very beneficial. The thermo•aute•y, hot fomentations, a Turkish bath, and, in ob stinate cases, a blister may he employed. In chronic cases iodide of potash, gnaiacum, and sulphur may be used. Those subject to lumbago should be warmly clothed, and should, if possible, avoid cold and dampness. Consult Dana, Text book of Nervous Diseases (New York, 1901).