Any pain arising in the shoulder joint or the surrounding muscles, ligaments, and tendons is called shoulder pain. It can be attended with stiffness, swelling and restricted movement of the shoulder depending on the cause behind it. The human shoulder is made up of a shoulder joint and different muscles, tendons and ligaments. The bones that constitute a shoulder joint are humerus, clavicle and scapula.  It is one of the largest joints of the body that accommodates a wide range of movements. This complex joint is highly movable but is also one of the most unstable joints in the body.

Homeopathy offers a wonderful and side effect- free treatment for cases of shoulder pain. Homeopathic medicines help to magnificently relieve shoulder pain along with managing other associated signs and symptoms like swelling, stiffness, tenderness, redness and heat in the shoulder.  As shoulder pain can arise from various causes, homeopathy gives excellent relief by treating the root cause behind it. In conventional treatment, pain killers, NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti – inflammatory drugs) and steroids are recommended. These medicines are known to cause side effects from prolonged use, they also carry chances of creating dependency. Therefore, homeopathic medicines can be a great alternative to manage pain.

Homeopathy treats the root cause

For long-term relief in shoulder pain, the cause needs to be treated and homeopathic medicines follow this rule. For example, homeopathy helps in decreasing any inflammation and helps heal the muscles, tendons, and ligaments as the case may be, by encouraging natural healing within the body. Once the cause is addressed, the pain reduces and also any swelling or stiffness (if present) gets better.

Effective cure for Acute / Chronic cases

Homeopathy gives remarkable results in both acute and chronic cases. The acute cases get well quite quickly with homeopathic medicines. While chronic cases might take some more time to resolve completely, relief is noticeable in the very early phase of treatment. A gradual decrease in the frequency of symptoms occurs in chronic cases. With the regular course of homeopathic treatment as prescribed by a homeopathic physician, most of the chronic cases having mild to moderate intensity recover completely.

Safe, Natural medicines

Homeopathy uses natural medicines for shoulder pain. These medicines are made from natural substances and do not cause any side effects. These are safe to use among persons of all age groups.

Top 6 Homeopathic Medicines For Shoulder Pain

The most commonly indicated medicines for shoulder pain – Rhus Tox, Sanguinaria Canadensis, Ferrum Met, Ruta Graveolens, Bryonia Alba and Arnica. 

1. Rhus Tox – Top Grade Medicine

When it comes to treat shoulder pain, Rhus Tox is a leading medicine. The most characteristic feature to use it is shoulder pain which gets worse at rest and better by movement. Rhus Tox is also one of the best medicines to manage shoulder pain arising from injury / overstraining / overstressing of muscles or tendons, inflamed tendons and joint inflammation. In cases needing it, the pain may vary that can be tearing, shooting, stitching or burning type. Along with pain and stiffness, swelling and cracking in the shoulder joint is also present.

When to use Rhus Tox?

It is a well-indicated medicine for shoulder pain arising from injury or over-straining of muscles or tendons, tendinitis and inflamed joints, especially when pain is worse at rest and better by movement.

How to use Rhus Tox?

Both low and high potencies of this medicine work well, however, it is advised to begin with 30C potency. Rhus Tox 30C can be taken twice or thrice a day as per intensity of complaint.

2. Sanguinaria Canadensis – For Shoulder Pain On Right Side

Sanguinaria Canadensis is the most frequently prescribed medicine for shoulder pain on the right side. In cases needing it, there occurs difficulty in raising the arm due to excessive shoulder pain. This pain extends to the right upper arm. The pain usually worsens during night and while turning in bed.

When to use Sanguinaria Canadensis?

Its use is suggested for right-sided shoulder pain which gets worse at night and when turning in bed along with difficulty in raising the arm.

How to use Sanguinaria Canadensis?

It can be used once or twice a day in 30 C potency but for high potency, kindly consult a homeopathic doctor.

3. Ferrum Met – For Left-Sided Shoulder Pain

Ferrum Met is most suitable for treating shoulder pain on the left side. The nature of shoulder pain is tearing, drawing, or boring. This pain may extend to the upper arm or even below. Persons who need it have worsening of pain on movement and they are unable to raise their arm. Cracking sound may occur in shoulder joint on movement. There may occur relief in pain from warm compress over the shoulder.

When to use Ferrum Met?

This medicine should be specifically selected for left-sided shoulder pain when there is pain with shoulder movement and there is inability to raise the arm.

How to use Ferrum Met?

The most commonly used potency of Ferrum Met is 30C that can be taken twice a day.

4. Ruta Graveolens – For Shoulder Pain Due To Injured Or Inflamed Tendons

Ruta Graveolens is a natural medicine obtained from the plant ‘garden rue’. It is an infallible medicine to manage shoulder pain due to injured or inflamed tendons. Shoulder pain that occurs due to overstretching of the shoulder tendons is also treatable with this medicine. It is used in cases where the shoulder is sore, bruised, and hanging the arms down worsens the pain. Ruta Graveolens helps reduce shoulder pain as well as the inflammation of tendons.

When to use Ruta Graveolens?

If an injured / inflamed tendon or overstretched tendon is giving rise to shoulder pain, Ruta should be given right away.

How to use Ruta Graveolens?

It is advised to take Ruta 30C twice or thrice a day.

5. Bryonia Alba – For Shoulder Pain Worse From Movement

It is a natural medicine to treat shoulder pain that gets worse with the slightest movement. Resting helps ease the pain. The shoulder can also appear shiny-red and swollen. There may occur a tightness sensation in the shoulder. The pain from the shoulder extends down the arm. Bryonia is an important medicine when shoulder pain occurs from inflamed joint.

When to use Bryonia Alba?

A person who experiences an increase in shoulder pain by movement and relief by resting will find this medicine highly effective.

How to use Bryonia Alba?

It can be taken in 30C potency two to three times a day for good results.

6. Arnica – For Shoulder Pain Post Injury

Arnica is a great herbal medicine to manage cases of shoulder pain that occurs after a shoulder injury. It works well when injury occurs from a blow; fall; or overuse of shoulder muscles, tendons; or straining of muscles. This medicine helps in healing injured area. Alongside it relieves pain and soreness of the shoulder.

When to use Arnica?

Arnica should be used as a first remedy to manage shoulder pain arising from an injury, strain or overuse of muscles and tendons. 

How to use Arnica?

Arnica acts most wonderfully in 30C potency. Arnica 30C can be taken three to four times a day. When relief appears, one may reduce its dose.

Causes Of Shoulder Pain

1. Frozen Shoulder (also known as adhesive capsulitis): It refers to pain and stiffness in the shoulder joint from the thickening and tightening of the capsule that encloses shoulder joint. Keeping the shoulder still for a prolonged period (like in case of a fracture in the arm, when recovering from surgery) is a major risk factor for a frozen shoulder.

2. Rotator cuff injury: Rotator cuff refers to collection of muscles and tendons which offer stability to shoulder and also help in its movement. Its injury includes inflammation of its tendons (rotator cuff tendinitis), strains (these occur from overuse and wear and tear of muscles) and tear of tendons (either partial or complete)

3. Tendinitis and Tendon tear: Tendinitis means inflamed tendons (tissue bands that connect muscle to a bone). An injury or degeneration in tendons of shoulders (rotator cuff tendons are commonly injured tendons) can lead to tendon tear. The tear may be partial or complete.

4. Impingement syndrome: Pinching of tendons of rotator cuff in shoulder bones

5. Sprain in shoulder: Twisting of ligaments (tissue bands that connect one bone to another bone) of shoulders

6. Shoulder Bursitis (subacromial bursitis): Bursa refers to a fluid-filled sac in the joint that reduces friction in joint structures to allow smooth joint movement. Shoulder bursitis results when this bursa gets inflamed. It may happen from an injury or joint inflammation.

7. Shoulder Arthritis: It refers to an inflamed shoulder joint. It may occur from osteoarthritis (degenerative changes in joints usually from age-related wear and tear or sometimes from an injury). It may also result from rheumatoid arthritis (an autoimmune disorder characterized by swollen, inflamed, painful, stiff joints) and septic arthritis (serious joint infection caused by bacteria or virus).

8. Overuse or repetitive use of shoulder leading to an injury

9. Bone spurs: Extra bony growths projecting along the edge of the bone

10. Bone Fracture in the shoulder or dislocated shoulder

11. Nerve pinching in the neck or shoulder

12.  Referred pain: In some cases, shoulder pain occurs from a problem in a body part other than the shoulder itself, for example, a problem in the liver, or gallbladder. It is known as referred pain.

What is a chalazion?

Chalazion, also known as meibomian cyst, is a small cyst or lump in the eyelid caused by inflammation or blockage of the meibomian gland. Meibomian glands are sebaceous glands on the eyelid that produce an oily substance that prevents evaporation of the eye’s tear film and lubricates the eye. A most common condition resembling chalazion is the stye. The major difference between the two is that chalazion forms away from the eyelid margin and is painless, while a stye forms at the eyelid margin and is painful.

Homeopathic Treatment

Under the conventional mode of treatment, surgical removal of the chalazion is advised. However, homeopathy can treat chalazion very successfully in a non-invasive manner, taking a natural, gentle, yet effective approach. Homeopathic medicines dissolve the chalazion and may prevent recurrence.

Homeopathic Medicines For Chalazion

Some top-grade homeopathic medicines to treat chalazion are Conium Maculatum, Calcarea Fluor, Thuja Occidentalis, Staphysagria and Silicea. These medicines are known to show the most wonderful results in treating chalazion cases.

1. Conium Maculatum – Top Grade Medicine

Conium Maculatum is a very effective medicine for treating chalazion. It is best when chalazion is felt as a hard node. Watering from eyes may also be there. Eyelids may feel heavy. Conium aids to dissolve chalazion naturally without any side effects.

When and How to use Conium Maculatum?

Conium Maculatum can be used as a first line for treatment in cases of chalazion, especially hard ones. Conium shrinks and dissolves chalazion quite effectively. Conium 30 C once a day is an ideal dose to start with.

2. Calcarea Fluor – For Markedly Hard Chalazion

Calcarea Fluor has similar action to Conium to treat hard nodes on eyelids. It helps treat chalazion that are intensely hard. The hardness is sometimes known as ‘stony hardness’. This medicine acts wonderfully to soften the node and dissolve it.

When and How to use Calcarea Fluor?

This medicine is highly recommended to help dissolve chalazion that is extremely hard. It works best in 6X potency. Four tablets of Calcarea Fluor 6X can be taken three to four times a day at a minimum three-hour gap.

3. Thuja Occidentalis – For Chalazion With Heaviness Of The Eyelid

Thuja is a natural medicine prepared from green twigs of plant Arbor Vitae. This medicine is indicated for chalazion when heaviness of eyelid attends. In cases needing it, chalazion feels like a thick hard knot. Thuja halts further increase in the size of chalazion and helps dissolve the knot.

When and How to use Thuja Occidentalis?

It can be used for cases where chalazion is attended with heaviness in eyelid. Though it is available in different potencies from low to high, it is good to start with 30C potency once a day. Do not use high potency without consulting a homeopath.

4. Staphysagria – For Tendency Of Recurrent Chalazion

Staphysagria is a natural medicine prepared from dried seeds of plant ‘stavesacre’. It is best suited where there is a tendency for the chalazion to recur one after the other. This medicine works to eliminate the root cause behind chalazion to prevent its recurrence. It is also indicated when the stye turns into a hard node. In cases needing it, blepharitis may also be present.

When and How to use Staphysagria?

Consider this medicine in persons who have a tendency to get chalazion frequently one after another. This medicine will help in preventing frequent recurrence of chalazion in them. This medicine can be taken in 30C potency once a day.

5. Silicea – For Infected Chalazion

Silicea is the most helpful medicine for chalazion where it gets infected. Due to infection, the lump on the eyelid becomes red, painful and swollen. It is also tender to touch along with the appearance of a pus point.

When and How to use Silicea?

Silicea is the best prescription for infected chalazion with pain, swelling and pus point in the lump on eyelid. The most commonly recommended potency of Silicea is 6X. It can be used two to four times a day as per the severity of symptom.

Note Any of the above homeopathic medicines can be used for three to four weeks in the recommended dose. In case there is no relief, kindly seek advice from a homeopathic physician. Do not take these medicines more than a month or in high potencies without consulting a homeopath.

How is a chalazion formed?

Chalazion forms in three steps: blockage of the meibomian gland, followed by the retention of sebum secretions due to blockage of the meibomian gland and lastly, formation of the cyst or chalazion from the pent-up secretions. Over time, this cyst turns into a hard node.

Risk Factors For Chalazion

1. Long-term blepharitis (eyelid inflammation)
2. Seborrheic dermatitis (inflamed skin with redness, dryness, flakes with itching on scalp, eyebrows, eyelashes, behind ears)
3. Acne rosacea (skin condition causing redness, flushing of face and acne)
4. Dysfunction of meibomian gland
5. Rarely viral conjunctivitis (inflamed conjunctiva means transparent membrane that covers the eyelid and white of the eyeball)
6. History of chalazion in past
7. Sometimes stye can develop into chalazion if after the resolution of infection some material remains behind clogging the meibomian gland.

Clinical Picture Of Chalazion

1. Chalazion presents itself as a small bump in the eyelid. Initially the bump may be painful when it forms but it stops paining afterward.
2. On examination, a small, hard, node in the eyelid away from the lid margin is felt. In most cases, chalazion is formed on the upper eyelid but at times may form on the lower eyelid as well.
3. Slight irritation and eye-watering
4. Blurred vision if a large chalazion presses against the eyeball
5. Other features that may attend include heaviness of the eyelid and mild eyelid tenderness
6. In a few cases, there are chances of calcification of the chalazion th, ough sometimes chalazion resolves on its own
7. Sometimes a secondary infection may occur in the chalazion leading to the formation of hordeolum internum (a stye i.e. a red, painful bump forming inside the eyelid away from the eyelash base from a bacterial infection of the meibomian glands). In such cases redness, swelling and pain appear.

What is Trigger Finger?

Trigger finger, also known as stenosing tenosynovitis, is a condition affecting the tendons of the hand. It is a painful condition in which the fingers or thumb get locked in a bending position. There is difficulty in straightening the affected finger. Clicking or popping sound is heard on straightening the finger. Trigger finger can appear in one finger or may involve many fingers at a time.

Though commonly affecting the right hand, it can affect both hands as well. Trigger finger makes a person anxious and frustrated since it interferes with daily life and work. It affects the efficiency of a person adversely, especially while performing tasks to be done with the hands.

Homeopathic Treatment

Homeopathic treatment for trigger finger is very effective. With the use of homeopathic medicines, the intensity of symptoms like pain, stiffness, and frequency of episodes gradually declines.

To treat any case of trigger finger, case details of characteristic symptoms of the person are required to find the underlying cause. The symptoms are important for the selection of the most suitable medicine for the patient. Homeopathic medicines treat trigger finger by correcting the underlying cause –inflamed, thick tendon sheath in most cases. Homeopathic treatment for trigger finger is natural, safe, and has no side effects. These are recommended for mild to moderate cases of trigger finger. In severe and advanced cases with fixed locking of finger, homeopathy is not helpful and conventional treatment is recommended.

Homeopathic Medicines For Trigger Finger

The top homeopathic medicines for trigger finger are Rhus Tox, Ruta Graveolens, Arnica Montana, Causticum, Merc Sol, and Sulphur.

1. Rhus Tox – Top Grade Medicine

Rhus Tox is a highly recommended medicine for cases of trigger finger. It has magnificent action on tendon and its sheath. Any complaint that arises from overuse or overstraining of tendons can be addressed wonderfully with this medicine. Here overuse or overstraining of tendons of fingers is the root cause behind trigger finger for which Rhus Tox is the leading medicine. In case joint inflammation is associated with trigger finger, there too Rhus Tox is effective. It is helpful in cases of trigger finger where there is noticeable rigidity and stiffness in the fingers during initial movement especially in the morning. Patients needing this homeopathic medicine get relief by moving their fingers and hands continuously. The problem may aggravate by resting the hand.

When and How to use Rhus Tox?

Rhus Tox can be used as a first line of treatment in cases of trigger finger where stiffness is marked in fingers. It will reduce inflammation of tendon, its sheath and reduce stiffness of fingers. It can be used in different potencies from low (30C) to high (200C, 1M) potencies. Initially, Rhus Tox 30C is the most preferred potency that can be taken three to four times a day at a three-hour interval. High potencies are usually not repeated too often and homeopathic physician’s advice is a must.

2. Ruta Graveolens – For Overstrained, Inflamed Tendons And Nodes On Tendons

Ruta is a natural medicine prepared from ‘garden rue plant’. It is very effective in treating trigger finger caused by overstrained or inflamed tendons of the hands. Additionally, nodes get formed on the tendons. The fingers get contracted. Tearing or drawing pain is felt in the fingers and hands.

When and How to use Ruta Graveolans?

Ruta can be used in case of pain in fingers and hands where tendons are inflamed along with node formation from over-straining. Though it can be used in varying potencies, the most frequently used potency is 30C which can be taken two to three times a day.

3. Arnica – For Complaint From Overstraining Or Overexertion Of Hands

Arnica is similar in action to the above two medicines. It is well-indicated when trigger finger develops due to over-straining or overexertion of the hands. The patient needing it has soreness and pain in the fingers that gets worse with the slightest touch.

When and How to use Arnica?

When this condition arises from overstraining of hands along with pain and soreness of hands, Arnica can be used. It gives excellent results in 30C potency. Arnica 30C can be taken two to three times a day as per severity of pain.

4. Causticum – For Stiff Fingers With Difficulty In Moving Them

Causticum is a very useful medicine for cases having marked stiffness of fingers. The fingers get bent over the palmar side with difficulty in moving them. These can only be moved with the help of the other hand. Tendons of fingers get contracted and hardened from long-term inflammation.

When and How to use Causticum?

Consider this medicine’s use when fingers are stiff and bent from contracted and hard tendons. 30C is the right potency to use in beginning. Causticum 30C can be taken once or twice a day as per the intensity of complaint.

5. Merc Sol – When There Is Locking Of Fingers / Thumb

Merc Sol is valuable for cases of trigger finger where there is locking of fingers or thumb. The fingers/thumb may be completely bent on the palms. There is excessive struggle to open the locked fingers without assistance from the other hand. Besides, there is stiffness in hands while using them. On moving the hands, fingers make a cracking sound.

When and How to use Merc Sol?

Merc Sol can be used when there is the tendency of fingers or thumb to be completely bent on the palm and get locked there. This medicine will gradually help to reduce frequency and intensity of such episodes though it may not help much in unlocking if the fingers are acutely bent. It can be taken in 30C potency twice a day for good results.

6. Sulphur – For Locked Fingers When Grasping Something

Sulphur can be considered in cases where the fingers lock when the person tries to grasp something. There may also be nodules on the fingers and cracking of finger joints in such cases. A tearing pain may be felt in the hands. Burning sensation in palms may attend.

When and How to use Sulphur?

When there is tendency to get locked fingers on grasping some object, Sulphur can be considered. Sulphur 30C once a day can be taken to reduce such tendency. In case no changes occur, higher potencies can be used after consulting a homeopath.

What Are The Causes Of Trigger Finger?

Trigger finger is caused by irritation, inflammation, scarring and thickening of tendon sheath of the fingers and thumb. Tendons are the strong tissue bands that link muscles to the bones. There is a covering on the tendon called the sheath. In normal conditions, there is smooth movement of the tendon within the sheath while bending and straightening the thumb and fingers. In cases of trigger finger, the space between the tendons and its sheaths becomes narrow due to inflammation or thickening of tendons or sheath of the affected fingers or thumb. This narrowing leads to pain and restricts the movement of fingers.

What Are The Risk Factors For Trigger Finger?

1. Overuse of hands with frequent and repetitive movement of hands and fingers puts a person at risk of getting trigger finger. Individuals who carry out regular or continuous straining movements, like gripping something for a prolonged time are prone to getting trigger finger. Persons in certain occupations or activities in which there is a constant straining of the fingers and hands tend to suffer from trigger finger. Musicians, farmers, and laborers are at high risk of developing trigger finger.

2. Apart from overuse, medical conditions like diabetes mellitus, rheumatoid arthritis (an autoimmune condition that causes inflammation of joints) and gout (inflamed joints from high uric acid levels) also make a person prone to trigger finger.

3. Age: Persons between 40-60 yrs of age at risk

4. Sex: Females are more likely to suffer from trigger finger than males

5. Surgery of carpal tunnel syndrome (numbness and tingling in fingers from pressure on median nerve)

What Are The Symptoms Of Trigger Finger?

Trigger finger can affect any finger or thumb, and either hand can be affected. It can affect multiple fingers at the same time.

1. Mild stiffness or tenderness at the base of the thumb or affected fingers. It is the initial symptom. The stiffness is more in the morning or when the person initiates movement. In some cases, the patient may get relief by continuous movement of the fingers.

2. Pain at the base of the affected finger/ thumb. It is felt on movement or applying pressure. With the progression of the condition, pain may be felt even when the hand is at rest.

3. Affected fingers get locked on bending as the disease progresses and the person finds it difficult to straighten locked fingers.

4. Popping or clicking sound on moving or straightening the affected finger.

5. Locking of finger in the bent position which the person may have to unlock with the help of the other hand in advanced cases. At times there is inability to straighten the finger.

6. Formation of nodosities at the base of the affected fingers in palms.

Grading of Trigger Finger

Grade 1: Only pain and tenderness in palm or fingers; there may be a history of bent finger

Grade 2: There is catching (bending) of finger but can be actively extended

Grade 3: Unlocking of finger requiring passive extension (using the other hand to unlock)

Grade 4: Fixed locking of finger

Top Homeopathic Remedies For Treating Throat Ulcers And Causes

Throat ulcers refer to the formation of open sores in the throat, food pipe (esophagus) or voice box (larynx). Besides being painful, it can lead to difficulty in eating and talking. Ulcers in the throat can affect any age group, including children.

Homeopathic Management

Homeopathy offers an effective management of throat ulcers. These medicines help in preventing further worsening of the condition and healing of the ulcers in a gradual manner along with symptom management.  The reasons behind it may vary so it is advised to start any homeopathic medicine under the supervision of a homeopathic physician who can prescribe medicines after detailed case evaluation. Homeopathy is recommended only when symptoms are mild to moderate and no serious cause is linked with it. In case symptoms are serious, like high fever, choking, difficulty in breathing, fast heart rate, blue lips, confusion , loss of conciousness,  vomiting of blood or chest pain, it is advised to take urgent help from conventional  mode of treatment. Also, if cancer is diagnosed, one must take immediate medical aid from conventional mode of treatment.

Homeopathic Medicines For Throat Ulcers  

1. Merc Sol – Top Grade Medicine

Merc Sol is a very effective medicine for treating of throat ulcers. The primary indications are redness in the throat, the throat feels sore. A burning or tickling sensation is also felt in the throat. There may occur stitching pain in the throat on swallowing food. The stitching pain can extend from the throat to the ears. A bad putrid odor from the mouth may accompany above symptoms. There may be dark red tonsils with ulcers, dry throat and a hoarse rough voice.

2. Nitric Acid – For Shooting Pain

This medicine is indicated for throat ulcers with shooting type of pain.  There may also occur sharp, stinging pain. The pain from throat may extend to the ears. The ulcers are red in the centre with bluish margins or there may occur white patches in the throat. Ulcers may appear on the tonsils, they are flat and may be white or grayish in color. The throat is also inflamed. Burning and soreness in the throat attends mostly while drinking liquid.  Dryness in the throat attends along with difficult swallowing when sharp splinter-like pain occurs. A metallic taste in the mouth and bad breath may also be present along with above symptoms.

3. Kali Bichrome – For Ulcers Filled With Cheesy-Looking Matter

Use of this medicine is considered when there are ulcers in the throat that are filled with thick white matter that looks like cheese. This matter has an offensive smell. The ulcers have well-defined borders and elevated edges. The tonsils are inflamed and have small ulcers on it. There is dryness in mouth and throat along with sore throat and tough mucus. The mucus is thick, viscid, stringy that can be drawn out like long threads.

4. Apis Mellifica – For Stinging, Burning In Throat

Apis Mellifica is the next important medicine for throat ulcers. It is indicated when stinging, burning is present in the throat along with ulcers. The throat is swollen, red, and inflamed. Along with hoarse voice, there is pain while swallowing solids and while talking. A feeling of a foreign body being stuck in the throat is also present.

5. Arum Triphyllum – For Ulcers With Fetid Discharge

This medicine is indicated for ulcers with fetid discharge. This is attended with a constant scratching and burning in throat.  Dryness in throat is there. Soreness of throat is marked. Swallowing is difficult with this. A thick mucus is present in throat with tickling cough.

6. Borax – For Ulcers In Fauces  

This medicine is indicated for ulcers in the fauces (the cavity at the back of the mouth which leads into pharynx).  There is tough white mucus in the throat, it can be loosened and expectorated with excessive efforts only. There is roughness and burning in throat with a feeling to scratch it from inside.

7. Hydrastis – For Ulcers In Throat With Foul Odour

It is a natural medicine prepared from fresh root of the plant Hydrastis canadensis commonly known as Golden Seal/Orange Root or Yellow Puccoon. This plant belongs to family Ranunculaceae. This medicine is valuable for managing cases having ulcers in throat with foul odor.  An important accompanying symptom is hawking of yellow tenacious mucus from the posterior nares. Pain is felt on swallowing with constant rawness (irritation) in the throat. There is redness, swelling and itching in throat. Other than this, tingling and smarting (burning sensation) is felt in the throat .

8. Lac Can – For Swollen, Dark Red Throat With Small Ulcers

This medicine is valuable for managing cases having swollen, dark red throat with small ulcers. These ulcers are irregularly shaped. There is pain while swallowing and talking, where it is required. There is sore throat that begins with a tickling sensation leading to cough. Swelling and rawness is felt in the throat along with dryness. White ulcers are also present on the tonsils. Pricking and cutting pain may be felt. Along with the above, a lump is felt in the throat that goes down while swallowing and returns.

9. Iodum – For Inflammation And Ulcers In The Esophagus

This medicine works well in cases of inflammation and ulcers in the esophagus. Those who need it have pain in esophagus. They also complain of difficulty in swallowing. Burning and scraping sensation is also felt.

10. Psorinum – For Throat Pain When Swallowing

Psorinum is another medicine in the list for managing throat ulcers. Patients who require this have pain in the throat while swallowing. The pain felt is cutting or tearing in nature. Besides, there is accumulation of mucus in throat. Dryness, scraping sensation, burning and scalding is felt in the throat. Lastly, they complain of sensation of a plug or lump in the throat.

11. Spongia – For Ulcers In Larynx

Spongia is beneficial to manage cases in which ulcers are present in the larynx. Those needing it have cracked, hoarse voice. They have a feeling of plug in larynx. They feel pain in larynx while talking/singing. Other than this, they have burning, roughness, scraping and tickling in larynx. Dry cough is marked with the above mentioned symptoms.

Causes Of Throat Ulcers

It can arise from various causes. Firstly, ulcers found in the throat may be caused by infections. These may be bacterial infections (eg infection by group A beta hemolytic Streptococcus that cause tonsillitis known as strep throat). These may also arise from viral infections, like Epstein Barr Virus infection that mainly causes symptoms including sore throat, swollen glands in neck, weakness, rash, loss of appetite, and weakness in muscles.  Another viral infection linked to it is herpangina (a common childhood infection in which sores appear in the mouth and back of the throat). Other than this, the infection causing it can be fungal (like thrush which is an infection caused by a fungus known as Candida albicans).

Secondly, ulcers may arise after chemotherapy or radiation done for cancer treatment.

Third cause behind the ulcer could be Behcet’s syndrome which is an inflammatory condition in which ulcers appear in the lining of the mouth, genitals and other body parts.

The last probability can be cancer.

Causes For Ulcers In Esophagus (Food Pipe)

Ulcers in the food pipe may firstly arise from consumption of acidic foods, caffeinated drinks and alcohol in large quantity.

Secondly, these may occur in case of GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease in which the stomach acid flows back from stomach to the throat due to relaxed lower esophageal sphincter).

It can be caused by various infections like HSV infection (herpes simplex virus infection), candida infection, CMV infection (cytomegalovirus infection), HIV (Human immunodeficiency virus infection).

Another cause is use of certain medicines (like NSAIDs – non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, some antibiotics, etc).

Intake of corrosive substance like ammonia, allergies, excessive vomiting are yet other reasons related to it.

It may also occur from chemotherapy or radiation treatments done for cancer.

Causes For Ulcers In The Vocal Cord

These may arise due to LPR (laryngopharyngeal reflux which is a condition in which stomach acid flows back into the back of throat, larynx).

Ilcers can arise from excessive talking, coughing or overuse of the voice box that irritates vocal cords.

Third reason is recurrent respiratory infections.

Yet another cause can be injury from endotracheal tube which is passed down the throat into the trachea which helps in breathing in some people who are unselfconscious or who are unable to breathe on their own.

Signs And Symptoms Of Ulcers In Throat

The signs and symptoms may include white or red patches in the throat, pain in throat, sore throat, lump-in-throat sensation, difficulty in swallowing, heartburn, mouth sores, pain in the mouth, bad breath, nausea, vomiting, voice changes, cough, throat clearing, choking sensation, chest pain, difficulty in breathing, fever, and lump in the neck.

Cracked nipples is a complaint that is frequently faced by breastfeeding mothers. However, it may also happen in other women who are not breastfeeding. In the latter,  it may arise due to trauma, some skin conditions (like eczema, psoriasis), or infection affecting nipples. Cracked nipples can be accompanied by other signs and symptoms. These include redness, soreness, irritation, oozing, and scabbing/crusting on the nipples or around it. This area may be dry, painful, tender and sometimes there may be bleeding too. In some cases itching, scaling, blisters or ulcers may appear on nipples.

Homeopathic Management

Homeopathy offers a very safe, natural and effective management for cases of cracked nipples. Homeopathic medicines help to halt the further progression of the condition and heal the cracks that are already present in the nipples. They also manage signs and symptoms which accompany the disease. These include redness, soreness, oozing, scabbing / crusting, pain, tenderness, itching, bleeding, scaling, blisters or ulcers. The most suitable medicine for managing the complaints of cracked nipples needs to be selected on a case-to-case basis depending on the signs and symptoms. So it is advised to take any homeopathic medicine only after consultation with a homeopathic physician.

Top Homeopathic Medicines for cracked nipples

1. Graphites – Top-grade Medicine

Graphites is administered when the nipples are cracked and painful. The nipples also become sore. In some cases, small blisters (fluid-filled eruptions) may be present on the nipples. There may be ulcers on the nipples sometimes. It may ooze a thin fluid discharge or thick sticky fluid. It may be followed by formation of a crust. Graphites is well indicated for sore, cracked nipples that may ooze fluid in nursing women. Lastly, it is a highly valuable medicine for managing cases of eczema of the nipples.

2. Phytolacca 

It is prepared from plant Phytolacca Decandra, commonly known as ‘poke-root’ and ‘red ink plant’. This plant belongs to family Phytolaccaceae.

This medicine benefits mothers with sore, sensitive, and cracked nipples. Sometimes small ulcers around the nipples may show up. It is very useful for nursing mothers,  whose nipples are intensely sensitive and there can be pain while breastfeeding. In such cases, the pain emanates from the nipple and goes to the entire body. It is also one of the best medicines for managing mastitis .

3. Silicea 

This medicine works well in case of cracked and ulcerated nipples.  The nipples can be inflamed too in some cases needing it. Soreness and tenderness is marked in the nipples. Lastly, darting or burning pain mainly in the left nipple can be felt.

4. Castor Equi – For Cracked Nipples During Breastfeeding

It is a very useful medicine for managing cracked nipples during breastfeeding. The nipples are sore and very tender also. The tenderness is so intense that even touch of the clothes is not bearable to the sufferer. In addition to the above, there may be redness of the areola.

5. Sulphur 

It is a very beneficial medicine for women with sore cracked nipples. They also present itching and burning pain. Cracks may be deep at the base of the nipples. Burning sensation is intense. Sometimes there may be smarting and stinging sensation that gets worse after every breastfeeding session. It is also administered for bleeding from the cracks that may occur after feeding the baby. Next indication for its use is in case of yellow scales on the areola. It may ooze fluid. Itching and burning is felt in it mainly during the night. Lastly, it is an important medicine when ulcers are formed on the nipples.

6. Sepia 

This medicine is prominently given when the nipples are sore, cracked, and bleed. It may be preceded by itching. Nipples are excoriated and also ulcerated.

7. Aurum Sulph 

This medicine offers help to those who have cracked painful nipples. Among those needing it, the nipple pain is sharp or piercing. In addition to this, there may be swelling of breasts that is sensitive to touch.

8. Fluoric Acid 

Use of this medicine is recommended for cases in which the nipples are red and itchy along with cracks.  The nipples are also sore. Swelling may also be there in the right nipple.

9. Lycopodium 

It is a natural medicine prepared from plant Lycopodium Clavatum having common name called ‘club moss.’ It belongs to family lycopodiaceae. This medicine is useful when there are cracked nipples that bleed easily. In some cases, moist scabs are present on the nipples. Soreness and rawness of nipples is also present. Pain is felt in the nipples with the above symptoms. The pain can be stitching or burning in nature. It may sometimes be of stinging nature as well.

10. Merc Cor

It is the last medicine in the list to manage cases of cracked nipples. The main indicating feature for using it is cracked nipples along with severe pain in the nipples while breastfeeding the child. Tendency of bleeding from cracked nipples may also be present in females who require this medicine.

What Are The Causes?

Though cracked nipples occur most commonly in breastfeeding mothers, there are some other causes too.

A) Causes of Cracked nipples in breastfeeding mothers

The first main reason behind cracked nipples is breastfeeding.

Breastfeeding is not something that causes pain and not all breastfeeding mothers get cracked nipples. But in some of the nursing mothers, this may happen.

Firstly, it can be a result from poor latch (latch means how a baby puts his mouth on mother’s breast for sucking milk). A good latch (the nipple and large part of the areola is in the baby’s mouth) is needed for high milk flow and comfortable feeding session and the mother feels no pain or discomfort in the nipple. If the latch is poor, it means baby is latching only on to the nipple and not the aeorla and it leads to poor milk transfer to baby and may cause sore and cracked nipples on the breast. Nipple cracks from breastfeeding are mostly seen during the first month after delivery. This is because a newborn baby is still learning the right way to latch and take feed and in that process can cause trauma and cracked nipples. Poor latching may also occur if the baby has tongue tie, high palate or small mouth.

Next, it can arise if the baby is not positioned correctly during the breastfeeding session.

Breast engorgement is another condition that can lead to it. Breast engorgement refers to hard, swollen, painful, tender breasts due to increase in volume of breast milk. It can lead to changes in the shape of the nipple area and can cause hinderance in proper latching of the baby onto the breast.

The chances of cracked nipples are also more if the baby is made to use feeding bottle in addition to breastfeeding. This is because the method of milk sucking is separate for both breast and bottle. It may cause nipple confusion to the baby and trauma to the nipple.

Incorrect use of breast pumps, for example from very high suction level, may also lead to cracks.

B) Causes of cracked nipples other than breastfeeding

Among other causes the first is trauma to nipples from cuts, blows or friction (as from ill-fitted clothes) that can cause cracking or chafing of the nipple.

Next, are certain skin conditions. Its first example is eczema/dermatitis, a skin condition in which red, inflamed rashes on the skin that are itchy can be spotted. Roughness and cracking may be present too. In some cases, blisters appear that may leak fluid, followed by crusting and scaling.  It may also be caused due to some allergic reaction from direct contact of nipple with an irritant (like soap, lotion, certain fabrics, detergent).

Another reason could be psoriasis. It is an autoimmune skin disease in which red, inflamed patches appear on the skin covered by silvery-white scales/flakes. It may be attended with itching, soreness, or burning. Dryness and cracks may also occur in these patches. These may bleed too. Though psoriasis commonly affects knees, elbows, and scalp,  it may also affect other body parts including nipples in some cases.

Lastly, it can occur from bacterial or fungal infections.  An example of bacterial infection is infection from bacteria named Staphyloccus. Thrush is a fungal infection that can be passed from newborns (if they have it in mouth) to mother’s nipples  during breastfeeding.

 What Are Its Complications?

The complication that can arise in these cases is mastitis if the bacteria gain entry in the breast tissue through the cracked nipples and causes an infection.

Mastitis refers to inflammation of the breast tissue. Its signs and symptoms include swollen, red, painful and tender breasts. Heat and burning sensation in the breast, general malaise and fever may also be present. If left untreated or not treated correctly,  there are chances of formation of mammary abscess (pus-filled lump in the breast).

What are female genital sores?

Female genital sores refer to flesh-colored red bumps or fluid-filled blisters/vesicles in or around the vagina. They may be single or multiple in number varying from case to case.

They may or may not be attended with any signs and symptoms. Itching, pain, tenderness, burning sensation, bleeding and discharge are some of its symptoms. Some of the sores may be contagious (spread from direct skin to skin contact).

Homeopathic Treatment

Homeopathic medicines are very effective in treating female genital sores. These medicines help to heal the sores in the genitals and halt further progression of the sores. Besides, they help to manage any associated itching, pain, burning sensation, if present. It is advised to take homeopathic medicines for treating genital sores in women under the supervision of a homeopathic doctor. This is because a doctor can evaluate the cause behind it and based on the cause and the individual’s symptoms, he/she can give the best suitable medicine. Use of homeopathic medicines is recommended only when sores occur from a benign (non-cancerous) cause. While in case of cancerous causes,  it is strictly advised to take help from conventional mode of treatment.

Top Homeopathic Medicines For Genital Sores In Women

1. Sepia – Top grade medicine

It is a leading homeopathic medicine for treating genital sores in women. Firstly, it is helpful for cases in which pimples appear all around the vulva. It is attended with severe itching of the vulva. Secondly, it is useful for treating non-painful fluid-filled eruptions on the outer parts of the vulva. The other indication for using Sepia is red, swollen inner labia with itchy eruptions. Lastly, it is a well-indicated medicine for managing vaginal inflammation. In such cases, yellow–colored vaginal discharge is present. It may be accompanied by a burning sensation. Besides, vagina may be tender with pain during sexual intercourse.

2. Natrum Mur – For Cases Of Genital Herpes

It is a well-indicated medicine for cases in which sores occur from genital herpes infection. Females needing it have soreness in the vagina along with itching. During intercourse, they feel burning sensation in the vagina. They may also feel soreness and burning in the vagina after urination.

3. Thuja – For Genital Warts

It is prepared from fresh twigs of a plant Thuja Occidentalis having common name Arbor Vitae. This plant belongs to family Coniferae. It is a very effective medicine for treating genital warts. It is indicated when there are warts around the vulva. The warts may be present on the labium. These are painful to touch and may bleed easily. Other than warts, it is also valuable for treating ulcers on the inner surface of vulva and labia majora. Pain in the vulva may be felt in the sitting position.

4. Graphites – For Pimples, Vesicles On Vulva And Eczema Around Vulva

This medicine is helpful for cases in which there are pimples or vesicles (fluid-filled eruptions) on the vulva. These are itchy. Smarting sensation(burning) and pain may also be felt in the pimples. In some cases needing it, there may be vesicles in the vagina and on the labia also. It is also a very suitable medicine for managing eczema around the vulva.

5. Nitric Acid – For Vaginal Inflammation

This medicine works well in cases of vaginal inflammation. Vaginal discharge can be watery, or stringy and is green or brown in colour. It has an offensive smell. Swelling, itching and burning sensation is felt in the vagina and vulva. Besides, cracks and ulcers may be present on the labia minora.

6. Petroleum – For Sore, Inflamed Vulva And Vaginal Burning

Petroleum is an important medicine for cases presenting with soreness in the vulva, inflamed vulva and burning in vagina. It is accompanied by profuse vaginal discharge which is irritating. It looks like egg white and it wears off the skin. Excessive itching and sweating in labia is felt. Weakness is another symptom.

7. Merc Sol – For Pimple Eruptions On Labia

This medicine is indicated when there are pimples on the labia. It gets worse at night. There may be inflammation of vagina and swelling of labia. In such cases, burning and itching of vagina is present. There is yellow or greenish colored discharge from the vagina. It is smarting corroding type. It may also look like pus sometimes. Other than this, whitish patches like ulcers on mucus surface of genitals can be present. There may be little red elevations on these patches. There is burning in vagina when urine passes through it.

7. Sabina – For Genital Warts And Cyst In Vulva

It is prepared from young, fresh tops of the branches of plant Sabina Officinalis commonly called ‘Juniperus Sabina’ and ‘Savine’. It belongs to family Coniferae. It is of great value for treating genital warts. These are attended with itching and burning where Sabina is required. Secondly, it is an important medicine to treat cysts in the vulva. They are sensitive to touch and pain of tearing nature may be felt in them while resting.

8. Kreosote – For Vulva And Vaginal Inflammation

It is a very suitable medicine for inflammation in the vulva and vagina. It is accompanied with itching in vagina and vulva. After scratching, soreness and burning is felt.  Swelling and heat is also there in external genitals. One feels pain in vagina while passing urine as it is sore. Pain in vagina during sex is another complaint. Vaginal discharge occurs follows which is yellow.  It mostly precedes every urination. Frequent urination is present along with these complaints.

9. Lycopodium – For Dry Warts On Female Genitals

It is prepared from plant Lycopodium Clavatum commonly known as ‘club moss’. It belongs to family Lycopodiaceae. It is a very beneficial medicine for treating dry warts on female genitalia. They are pedunculated (attached with a stalk) and painless. Lycopodium also helps in relieving serious cysts in vagina. It also manages burning of vagina during and after sexual intercourse.

What Are The Reasons Behind It?

In some cases, they appear without any cause and disappear by themselves. While in others, there may be a medical reason, like a skin disorder or sexually transmitted infections (STIs). The common cause that can cause sores in female genitals is sexually transmitted infections (STIs) that mostly include genital herpes and genital warts. Genital herpes is a very common sexually transmitted infection caused by HSV (herpes simplex virus). It causes sores in the genital area. The sores may be itchy and painful. In some cases, no signs or symptoms are visible.

Genital warts is a very common type of sexually transmitted infection. These are caused by some strains of HPV – human papillomavirus. These appear as small, flesh-colored bumps on the genitals. Some may also have a cauliflower-like appearance.

Some less common STIs that can cause genital sores are syphilis, chancroid and molluscum contagiosum.

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection caused by bacteria Treponema pallidum. It starts as a painless sore on the genitals, rectum or the mouth. This is followed by a rash on the trunk that spreads to cover the entire body. Chancroid is an STI caused by bacteria Haemophilus ducreyi. In this infection, open painful sores develop in the genital area. The lymph nodes in groin may also swell and cause pain.

Molluscum Contagiosum is a skin infection that is caused by virus Molluscum contagiosum. Raised bumps that are small, smooth, shiny can develop on the face, thighs, buttocks, groin, lower abdomen, on the genitals and around the anus.

Other than STIs, there are some skin disorders that can cause genital sores. The first among them is eczema —

a skin condition in which patches of skin get red and inflamed attended by itching. Fluid-filled eruptions called blisters may develop on the affected skin area. It may also get rough and cracked in some cases.

Second is contact dermatitis, a skin condition in which the skin gets red, sore and inflamed after coming in contact with chemicals in some substances like detergents, perfumes, creams, feminine sprays, douches, etc). Another reason could be the formation of cysts (a lump that may be filled with fluid, semi-solid material or air). Inflamed vulva or vagina (vulvovaginitis) could also be a reason for sores in the private parts. In this case, increased vaginal discharge, itching and irritation in the genital area along with discomfort while passing urine may occur. Other than this, it may be caused by trauma or a scratch on the genitals that becomes infected. Lastly, these may be present in case of cancer of the vulva and other types of skin cancer (including basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma).