A child’s physical growth is indicated by increase in the height and weight of the child that is necessary in any child of that age group and sex. The child’s growth is fast from birth to 1- 2 yrs of age. Beyond this, there is gradual growth. Around adolescence (age between 13- 19yrs), the pace of growth picks up again called growth spurt (short time period where quick physical growth occurs in height and weight). When a child has less growth than what is considered normal for his / her age group, it is referred to as stunted growth.

Children with stunted growth may show symptoms like tiredness, looks pale and thin, loss of fat over cheeks, loose flabby skin in the folds, low immunity, poor intellectual development/school performance.

Homeopathic Management

Homeopathy can be a boon to children who have stunted growth with regards to height and weight which is less than what is normal as per their peer group. Along with a well – balanced nutritional diet, homeopathic medicines can work magnificently in such cases. Homeopathic medicines function to remove any obstacles that are hindering a child’s normal growth and promote weight gain and increase in height. They are also helpful in treating any underlying gastric issue, thyroid problems, etc. if linked with stunted growth. To boost a child’s growth, homeopathic medicines are selected based on detailed case analysis of a child. Homeopathic prescription varies from case to case as per the presenting symptom picture of every individual child. Hence it is recommended to take any homeopathic medicine only after consulting a homeopathic physician. Homeopathic medicines are prepared from naturally occurring substances which are very safe to use with zero side effects. Homeopathic medicines have a limitation in managing cases where some genetic cause is linked with stunted growth.

Homeopathic Medicines For Stunted Growth In Children

1. Baryta Carb – Top Medicine

Baryta Carb is a top recommended medicine to promote proper growth of a child. This medicine is known to stimulate growth hormone when the child is still growing. This medicine is highly suitable for children having short height and low weight as compared to what is needed for their age. They also have issues with concentration and study. Their mind is dull and slow in learning and grasping new topics. They have low appetite; though hungry, they refuse to eat. They have a tendency to catch cold easily and also suffer recurrent tonsillitis and pus collection behind the tonsils (quinsy). There is a tendency to excessive sweating especially on the feet. Sweat has fetid smell. Children needing it can be very shy and avoid strangers.

2. Silicea

Silicea is another prominent homeopathic medicine to improve child’s growth. This medicine is also indicated when a child is relatively very thin and has short height compared to children of his age. Use of this medicine is recommended when a child is eating properly but has nutritional deficiency due to improper assimilation (absorption of nutrients from food and their transportation to body cells via bloodstream) of food. There is excessive weakness, lack of stamina and tendency to have abnormal sweating on the feet and head. The child has marked sensitivity to cold air and does not like drinking milk. Silicea is also indicated for children showing delayed walking.

3. Calcarea Phos

Calcarea Phos is the next well-indicated medicine to boost child’s growth with regards to height and weight. Children needing it are thin, emaciated with sunken eyes and dark circles around the eyes. They also have weak, thin bones prone to fracture. They are slow in learning to walk, speak and also late in dentition. They may be suffering from anemia. They may have cold limbs and poor digestion.

4. Natrum Mur

This medicine works well to help improve the weight of a child having less weight. Children requiring it are very thin and especially the neck area is markedly thin. They eat very well yet go on losing weight. They crave salty things and dislike fatty food. They may be anemic too. They have marked weakness, feel tired and sleepy.  Children needing it get irritable frequently and tend to cry frequently without any reason.

5. Iodum

Iodum is an effective medicine to promote weight gain in those children who are losing weight inspite of eating well. They have excessive hunger, must eat every few hours but are not gaining weight. They are thin, feel very tired, the body heats up fast and they desire cold fresh air. There is a tendency to sweat from the slightest exertion. Iodum is also a leading medicine for cases where a child is unable to gain weight due to an  overactive thyroid gland. Children requiring this medicine are quite restless and have impulsive behaviour.

6. Abrotanum

Abrotanum is useful for children who are very thin, especially legs. The skin hangs loose in the folds of body. The neck is weak with difficulty in holding the head. The face looks pale, wrinkled and old with blue rings around the eyes. There may be alternate diarrhea and constipation. Undigested food may pass in the stool.

7. Tuberculinum

Tuberculinum is a helpful medicine for weak, thin children having short height and low weight. Children needing it are always tired and exhausted and have excessive sweating at night. They have tendency to catch cold easily, and also suffer from sore throat and infection in upper respiratory tract quite frequently. They also have tendency to suffer diarrhea lasting for long duration.

8. Lycopodium

Lycopodium is suitable for those children who have thin upper body as compared to the lower part. Children needing it have weak digestion. Their appetite is low and eating only a little food makes their stomach full. A child may be suffering from food allergies, like wheat allergy. There is a tendency of excessive gas production and bloated abdomen soon after eating.

What Causes Stunted Growth In Children?

It can arise from genetic causes, deficiency of growth hormone (produced by pituitary gland that aids growth in children and adolescents), malnutrition, and recurrent infections like diarrhea (loose motion). If a child is not growing well it might also be a result of any one of these causes:

1. Gastric issues, like , celiac disease in which eating gluten present in wheat, rye barley damages small intestines that hinders absorption of nutrients;  Crohn’s disease in which there occurs inflammation in some part of gastrointestinal tract in which other symptoms like diarrhea, vomiting, blood in stool may be present

2. Thyroid issues

3. Certain types of anemia, a condition where there is low red blood cells in body to carry oxygen to different body tissues and organs. Sickle cell anemia is a type of inherited disorder in which RBCs become crescent moon shaped that hinders carrying oxygen to different body parts

4. Bone disorders

 

 

 

Inflammation refers to swelling, redness, pain and heat in the body part as a result of some infection or injury. Whenever any infectious agent such as bacteria, virus enters our body or there occurs an injury, our immune system gets activated. Inflammatory cells are released that begins to trap infectious agents and initiate healing process. It results in signs and symptoms of inflammation including pain, redness, swelling and heat in affected parts. Along with these symptoms there may occur fever, muscle pain, tiredness depending on cause behind inflammation. Besides infection and injury, inflammation may also occur from auto-immune process (in autoimmune process the infection fighting cells in body start to damage body’s own healthy tissue out of a misdirected response) resulting in auto-immune diseases. Other factors increase risk of inflammation includes drinking excessive alcohol, obesity, smoking, chronic stress and exposure to industrial chemicals. Inflammation can occur in any of the body part from head to toe. Some of the inflammation prone zones in the body are throat, tonsils, sinuses, eyes, ears, nose, joints, muscles, tendons, urinary tract, stomach, intestine, rectum, liver, skin.

Types

1. Acute inflammation – This type of inflammation occurs suddenly for example as a result of injury or bacterial infection. It begins rapidly and could last from a few hours to a few days.

2. Chronic inflammation – It is a long-term inflammation that develops gradually over a period of several months to even years. For example, in case of arthritis (joint inflammation) chronic inflammation can be present.

Homeopathic Management

Homeopathy is a great choice of safe and effective treatment option for inflammation and pain. Homeopathic remedies work naturally to reduce inflammation and manage pain, swelling, redness and heat. These give excellent clinical results in vast number of such cases. These firstly halt further progression of inflammation and decreases the inflammation already occurred. There is huge list of homeopathic medicines to manage inflammation. Among this list the most suitable medicine is selected as per every individual case based on body part involved and its characteristic symptoms. It is to be noted that homeopathy is recommended only for mild to moderate cases. It is advised to always consult a homeopathic physician before using any of these medicines. Homeopathic physician will evaluate the case and prescribe the most suitable remedy. In case of severe intensity and also serious cause behind inflammation that needs immediate medical help like appendicitis (inflamed appendix), pneumonia (inflamed air sacs of lungs), encephalitis (brain inflammation), it is strictly advised to take quick help from the conventional mode of treatment as homeopathy has limitation in treating such critical cases.

Homeopathic Medicines For Inflammation

1. Belladonna – Top remedy

Belladonna is top recommended medicine to manage inflammation and pain. It works wonders in reducing inflammation in various body parts like throat, tonsils, ears, nose, sinuses, urinary bladder etc. In cases where it is needed there is marked redness, heat, pain and swelling in affected part. It is also a leading medicine to manage inflammatory fever which means fever that occurs as a result of inflammation.

2. Merc Sol – For Throat Inflammation (Sore Throat) And Tonsillitis

Besides Belladonna which is top medicine for managing sore throat and tonsillitis, Merc Sol is also prominently used medicine to manage this complaint. This medicine is used when there is bluish red swelling in throat, tonsils look dark red and ulcers may also be present on the tonsils and throat. There is pain in throat and tonsils, and pain may extend to ears especially when one swallows. Pain is usually stitching in nature. Salivation is increased along with above-mentioned complaints along with bad smell in the mouth.

3. Natrum Mur – For Inflammation of Lining Of Nose (Rhinitis)

Natrum Mur is a very suitable medicine to manage rhinitis. It is indicated for thin watery discharge from the nose. With this there is sneezing. Nasal blockage and loss of smell are other accompanying symptoms.

4. Kali Bichrome – For Inflamed Paranasal Sinuses (Sinusitis)

Kali Bichrome is a very effective medicine to manage sinus inflammation. The main symptom indicating its use is PND — post nasal discharge that indicates dripping of mucus from back of the nose into the throat. Next prominent indication for its use is thick, sticky, ropy mucus discharge from nose which is yellow or green in colour. With above-mentioned complaints there is headache in frontal region (forehead) of head and pain at the root of the nose. There occurs fetid smell in the nose.

5. Pulsatilla – For Ear Inflammation and Pain

Pulsatilla is a natural remedy to manage ear inflammation. It can manage inflammation of middle as well as inner ear really well. In cases requiring it there is ear pain especially marked at night. There is discharge from ear that is thick and yellow. It has a foul smell. Hearing becomes difficult.

6. Euphrasia – For Conjunctiva Inflammation (Conjunctivitis)

Euphrasia is best choice of medicine to deal with inflammation of conjunctiva (thin membrane lining eyelid and white of the eye). It is used when there is redness in the eye, excessive watering of the eye along with burning sensation in the eyes. Itching is also well-marked in the eyes. A sensation of dust in the eyes is also felt.

7. Rhus Tox – For Joints Inflammation and Pain

Rhus Tox is best choice of medicine to treat joint inflammation. It can be used for inflammation in any of the joints in the body. It helps reduce joint inflammation and managing pain, swelling and stiffness of joints magnificently. In cases where it is needed the joint pain get worse during the resting period and when the first movement begins. Pains get better after continued motion.

8. Bryonia – To Manage Inflamed Muscles

This medicine is very beneficial for managing muscle inflammation. This medicine is useful for reducing muscle inflammation in any part of the body. In cases where it is needed there is marked muscle pain that worsens on slightest movement.  It gets better by lying still and rest.

9. Ruta – For Tendon Inflammation (Tendonitis)

Tendons are band of strong fibrous tissue that connects muscles to bones. Ruta is a leading medicine to manage cases of tendinitis. It works well in managing inflamed tendons anywhere in the body. It is very suitable in cases where tendons get inflamed from overstraining or there is overuse of tendons like from repeated exercise or an injury. It helps to reduce tendon inflammation and its associated pain and soreness.

10. Arsenic Album – For Stomach Inflammation (Gastritis)

Arsenic Album is very useful in managing stomach inflammation. The key feature to use this medicine is burning pain in the stomach. It gets worse from eating slightest food or drinking any fluid. It worsens mainly due to drinking cold liquid, and gets better from drinking warm liquid.

11. Cantharis – For Inflammation Of Urinary Bladder (Cystitis) And (Urethra)

To manage inflammation of urinary bladder (cystitis) and (urethra), Cantharis is the top recommended medicine. It is indicated when there is burning or pain while passing the urine or before and after passing of the urine. There is a frequent urge to urinate from smallest quantity of urine in the bladder. The urine may be scanty. Sometimes it may come out in droplets.

12. Merc Cor – For Inflamed Large Intestine (Colitis) Or Rectum (Proctitis)

Merc Cor is an important medicine to manage inflammation of the large intestine and rectum. It is needed if there is mucus and blood with loose stool. Burning in the rectum while passing stool may be felt. There is a marked tenesmus (frequent ineffectual urge to pass stool even when bowels are completely empty). Every time a person goes to relieve himself, a scant stool is passed and there is a sensation of the bowels not being empty.

13. Apis Mellifica – For Skin Inflammation

Apis Mellifica is a beneficial medicine to deal with cases of skin inflammation. Those needing it have markedly red, sore and sensitive skin. Burning and heat in skin is felt. Stinging type of pains can be felt on the skin.

14. Chelidonium – For Liver Inflammation (Hepatitis)

Chelidonium is most valuable medicine to help cases of liver inflammation. Those who need it have liver pain that may radiate to the back. Liver may be enlarged and sore to touch. Jaundice can be present with dark stool and offensive urine.

While walking we tend to have a certain level of balance, with which we are able to walk straight and do not fall. Sometimes, a person may have trouble standing with feet together and walking straight. It may simply be a part of ageing or could be arising from a medical condition. The main problem may lie in the inner ear (vestibular problems). Other causes can include muscle weakness, nerve damage, brain injury and certain neurological disorders.

Homeopathic Management

Homeopathy is very effective in managing complaints of imbalance while walking. These medicines are entirely safe to use with zero side effects as these are prepared from naturally occurring substances. Homeopathic medicines bring excellent results in such cases by aiming to treat the root cause behind it. Homeopathic medicines bring gradual improvement in such cases and results vary from case to case. Homeopathic medicines are recommended for mild to moderate cases. There is no specific medicine in homeopathy for these cases and the suitable medicine has to be selected for every individual case separately after detailed case evaluation based on the characteristic symptom presentation. In some cases, imbalance while walking could point to serious health problems so it is advised to get every case evaluated by a doctor and take medicine under supervision of a doctor. Self-medication should not be done in any case. In case of a serious health issue, like brain stroke, immediate help from conventional mode should be taken.

Homeopathic Medicines For Imbalance While Walking

1. Agaricus

It is a top recommended medicine to manage cases of imbalance while walking. Persons needing it have an unsteady walk and have a tendency to fall frequently. They may have heaviness and weakness in the legs. Numbness in the legs may also be there. There may also be trembling of the legs along with weakness. Electric shock like sensation in the legs may attend.

2. Alumina

Alumina is a well indicated medicine for cases of imbalance while walking along with heaviness in the lower limbs. When walking there is uncertainty in the lower limbs along with weakness. The person requiring it staggers on walking. There is a desire to sit down while walking. There is numbness and stiffness in the legs mainly at night. A tension can be felt in the thighs and legs like a cramp.

3. Gelsemium

This medicine is helpful for cases in which there is imbalance while walking and the person staggers as if he is drunk. There is tiredness in the legs. It feels as if there is less control over muscle movement causing difficulty in standing and walking. A crampy pain in the legs can be felt while walking. Marked dizziness and drowsiness may be present along with above symptoms.

4. Argentum Nitricum

This medicine is effective for cases where legs feel weak and heavy. The sufferer feels as if he has no idea where to put the feet while walking. Staggering (walking in an uncontrolled way as if about to fall) gait is witnessed. There is also stiffness of the legs. Jerks may occur in the toes. Pain may be felt in the calf muscles, especially at night.

5. Conium

Conium works well in cases of imbalance while walking, along with dizziness, vertigo and weakness. There is marked muscle weakness in the legs. It seems as if there is loss of power in the limbs. Turning head sideways while walking worsens the imbalance and may also lead to falling.

6. Lathyrus Sativus

This medicine is useful when there is imbalance while walking along with marked stiffness and rigidity in the legs. Trembling is felt in the legs. Knees may knock together while walking. Cramps may be felt in the legs which get worse from cold. Legs feel cold during the day, while hot at night. There may be loss of muscle mass in the legs.

7. Stramonium

Stramonium can be used when there is unstable walking and staggering along with dizziness. Persons needing it are unable to walk in a straight line. Falling to the left side and backwards is prominent. There may be a feeling that the legs have become longer. A person may suffer from vertigo along with staggering and reeling gait as if drunk, along with obscuration of vision. There may be flickering before the eyes as well.

8. Phosphorus

Phosphorus is another effective medicine for imbalance while walking. There is weakness in the legs with unsteady gait. Trembling may be felt in the limbs. There is difficulty in speech. This medicine is well indicated for managing cases of multiple sclerosis.

Causes Of Imbalance While Walking

1. Problem in the inner ear (vestibular problems): Vestibular system in the inner ear is involved in maintaining balance. If there is some issue in its proper working, it is unable to collect information on motion, equilibrium and position of body, and fails to send proper signals to brain. It can cause a floating sensation.

2. Poor eyesight: It leads to poor focus on things in the surrounding when walking and may lead to imbalance.

3. Muscle weakness, unstable joints and brain injury may also cause imbalance while walking.

4. Nerve damage in legs (peripheral neuropathy): It mostly happens in diabetics though it may arise from some injury, alcoholism or an infection in a person.

5. Multiple sclerosis: It is a disease affecting the brain and the spinal cord. In this condition, the cells of the immune system damage the protective myelin sheath of the nerve fibers which disrupts communication between brain and rest of the body parts. It can lead to unsteady gait along with other symptoms including numbness or weakness in the limbs, tingling sensations, lack of coordination, vision loss, vertigo, weakness, blurred or double vision, slurred speech and cognitive issues.

6. Certain neurological problems, for example Parkinson’s disease, stroke, etc can also cause balance issues. Parkinson’s disease is a disorder affecting the nervous system that usually begins with hand tremors at rest followed by other complaints that include stiffness of the muscles, stooped posture, impaired balance, changes in speech, reduced or no expression on the face, reduced arm swing while walking and changes in handwriting. Another reason could be brain stroke which is a medical emergency requiring immediate medical help. In a brain stroke, there is interrupted oxygen supply to the brain resulting in death of brain cells and loss of brain function. It can cause loss of balance and difficulty while walking along with other symptoms including weakness in the legs, slurred speech, dizziness, weakness in the arms/face and confusion.

7. ALS: Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is a nervous system disorder which affects nerve cells of brain and spinal cord leading to loss of muscle control. It causes symptoms like problems in walking, falling and tripping, weakness in legs, feet, hands, problem while swallowing, slurred speech and muscle cramps.

8. Dementia: It affects memory and causes memory loss, which in turn affects thinking and social interaction of a person.  Dementia can cause disorientation, confusion, problem with communication.

 

 

Sometimes we feel weak in the legs and we don’t know why. It may be in one leg or both, may arise suddenly or gradually over weeks. The reason may be mild like over-activity/overexertion of leg muscles. In some cases, it is linked to some underlying medical cause (like slip disc, peripheral neuropathy). But in some cases, weakness of legs may point to a serious health issue (especially in case of sudden leg weakness), for example brain stroke which is a medical emergency that needs immediate medical help. Depending on the cause behind leg weakness, some other symptoms may accompany that include pain in the legs, numbness or tingling sensation in the legs, difficulty in standing or walking, pain in the back that may radiate down the legs and inability to move legs (paralysis).

Homeopathic Management

Homeopathic medicines have great scope in managing cases of leg weakness. Use of these medicines is recommended only in cases where leg weakness appears gradually and no serious cause is linked with leg weakness. Homeopathic medicines work naturally to manage leg weakness along with attending symptoms like pain, tingling, numbness in legs. These medicines are free from side effects. As leg weakness can arise due a serious ailment, it is advised to get every case of weakness in legs evaluated by a physician so that the condition can be diagnosed correctly followed by its proper treatment at the right time. Self – medication should be avoided in any case. In case of sudden onset of leg weakness and in case of serious causes like brain stroke, urgent medical help should be taken.

Homeopathic Medicines For Weakness In Legs

1. Gelsemium – Top Remedy

Gelsemium is a very effective medicine to manage leg weakness. In cases needing it, weakness is felt at the slightest exertion. Weakness can be attended with numbness and heaviness in the legs. There may be trembling in legs. Gelsemium is also indicated when all the limbs feel weak. Drawing or cramping pain may be felt while walking.

2. Causticum – For Pain In Legs

Causticum is a very beneficial medicine for leg weakness. Persons complain of drawing and tearing pain in the legs and thighs. One feels cramps in the calf muscles in the morning while still in bed. Legs may be sore to touch on the front side. Intolerable uneasiness or trembling may be felt in the limbs.

3. Alumina – To Manage Leg Weakness Along With Heaviness

It is another useful medicine for managing leg weakness. In cases needing it, legs feel very heavy besides feeling weak. A person may stagger (loss of balance) while walking. There may occur numbness and stiffness in the legs usually at night. Tearing pain may be felt in the legs when lying down or sitting mostly at night. Legs feel tired and exhausted when sitting.

4. Picric Acid – With Numbness Or Pricking Sensation In Legs

This medicine is indicated prominently when along with weakness in legs, there is numbness or pricking sensation as from needles. Crawling sensation in the legs may also attend. Excessive heaviness is felt in the legs especially after exertion. The legs may be as heavy as metal lead that are lifted from the floor with difficulty. The muscles may be sore to touch.

5. Phosphorus – With Missteps On Walking

Phosphorus is beneficial for weakness in the legs that leads to missteps (unsteady walk) while walking. Legs feel tired and heavy. Legs may feel cold along with sweating. Weakness and heaviness is worse when going upstairs. Drawing pains in the legs may occur along with the above complaints. There may be trembling of limbs on exertion. Tingling and formication (crawling sensation) may also be felt in limbs.

6. Argentum Nitricum – For Leg Weakness Along With Trembling

This medicine is helpful when weakness in the legs is attended with trembling. There is difficulty in standing and walking. Legs feel heavy as well. Legs feel as if made of wood. Legs become stiff and rigid. Pain is felt in calf muscles becoming troublesome at night.

7. Aesculus – For Weakness In Legs And Back

This medicine is well indicated when there is weakness in legs as well as back. Persons needing it have great problem in walking and they must lie down. There may be pain in legs and become sore while walking.

8. Conium – With Difficult Walking

Conium works well in case of weakness of legs with difficult walking. A dragging sensation and uneasiness is felt in the legs. Heaviness is also felt in limbs. In some cases, trembling of limbs may occur. Feet may get cold.

What Are The Causes Of Weakness In Legs?

1. Slip disc and Pinched nerve – It refers to a condition in which the gel-like substance in the intervertebral disc protrudes out through a tear in its outer shell. It is common in the lower back at L5 – S1 level. Slip disc in lower back may put pressure on the sciatic nerve that can lead to lower back pain extending down the leg (called sciatica), numbness, tingling sensation and muscle weakness in lower limbs. In mild cases, emergency help is not required. But if there is associated loss of bowel or bladder control, it points to serious issue where one should seek emergency medical help.

2. Delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) – In this medical condition, muscle pain is felt after about one or two days of physical exertion. Those who have done leg exercises may feel temporary weakness in their legs for few days.

3. Peripheral neuropathy – It refers to the damage to nerves other than that of brain and spinal cord (means peripheral nervous system). It may happen from an injury, diabetes, hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) or an infection. It usually begins with numbness/tingling in hands and feet. Its other symptoms are weakness, burning sensation, pain and difficulty in walking.

4. Multiple sclerosis – It refers to an autoimmune disease that damages the myelin sheath that protects the nerves. It may show different type of symptoms including muscle weakness, difficulty in walking, muscle rigidity, tremors.

5. Spinal compression – Compression of nerves in spine occur for example from abnormal curvature in the spine (scoliosis), bone spurs (extra bony growths), tumour on spine or broken vertebra.

6. Myasthenia gravis – A disorder that leads to weakness in voluntary skeletal muscles. Its symptoms include drooping eyelids, muscle weakness in arms, legs, hands or feet, trouble speaking/swallowing, double vision.

7. Guillain–Barre Syndrome – An autoimmune disorder in which the immune system attacks the nerves that cause weakness, tingling, numbness mostly starting in feet and legs. The symptoms eventually spread upwards. If not treated timely it can paralyze the whole body and prove life threatening.

8. ALS (amytrophic lateral sclerosis) – In this condition, the neurons controlling voluntary muscle movement get damaged and stop functioning causing muscle weakness and paralysis. It may cause weakness in legs or arms, muscle stiffness, difficulty in speech or swallowing, difficulty in walking and falling easily.

9. Cauda equina syndrome – In this syndrome there is compression of a bundle of nerves at the end of spinal cord. Its symptoms are numbness in the back of legs, hips, inner thighs, pain in back, sciatica, weakness of legs. It is a medical emergency and if medical help is not given promptly it can cause permanent weakness/paralysis of legs and loss of bladder/bowel control.

10. Beriberi – Deficiency of vitamin B1 can damage nerves, brain and heart. It can cause weakness, nerve pain, memory loss and heart failure.

11. Stroke – It is a medical emergency needing prompt medical help. It refers to interrupted oxygen supply (from blockage / bursting of blood vessel) to brain that causes death of brain cells and loss of brain function. Its symptoms happen suddenly and depend on the part of the brain affected. The symptoms include weakness in legs, numbness/weakness in arms or face, slurred speech, confusion, dizziness, visual disturbance, difficulty in walking and loss of balance.

 

 

Pus refers to fluid produced at the site of infection when the body is fighting an infection. It is a protein-rich fluid consisting of dead white blood cells, dead skin cells/tissue and bacteria. The color of pus varies from white, yellow, green to brown from case to case. Pus may or may not emit a foul odor. Pus is generally formed in cases of bacterial infection but may also get formed in case of fungal, viral or parasitic infection. Though various types of bacteria may be involved in pus formation, the common ones are Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pyogenes, Escherichia coli, Streptococcus pneumoniae and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The bacteria involved in pus formation are called pyogenic bacteria.  Pus may be formed on the surface of the skin due to skin infections or produced from an internal infection in some internal organ.

Pus can form in different body parts like:

1. Skin. In case of pus formation on the skin, redness, warmth, swelling and pain around the infection site may be present. Some examples of pus formation on skin are as follows:

a). Pustule: A bump/pimple on skin containing pus

b). Folliculitis: Inflammation/infection of a hair follicle

c). Abscess: Painful collection of pus deep inside the skin or tissue. It may also form internally in some organ or in spaces between the organs

d). Boils: Pus-filled bump under the skin but it is small and shallow as compared to an abscess

e). Carbuncle: Multiple boils connected to each other

f). At site of surgical incision

2. Mouth and throat: dental abscess (pus collection in teeth or gums), quinsy (pus collection behind tonsils), pus points in tonsils

3. Anal fistula: A tunnel with an opening in anal canal internally and another opening in skin around the anus that discharges pus

4. Eyes: Pus discharge may occur in case of an eye infection like bacterial conjunctivitis

5. Ears: In case of ear infection – suppurative otitis media

6. Lungs: For example empyema – pus collection in spaces between the lungs and inner surface of the chest wall

7. Brain: Brain abscess

8. Urinary tract: Pus cells in urine from infection called pyuria

9. Joints: Pus in joints termed as septic arthritis

Homeopathic Treatment

Homeopathic medicines prove highly effective in treating cases of pus. These medicines are of natural origin that help fight off infection in a very natural way. These medicines either absorb pus or hasten the discharge of pus depending on the condition as per every individual case. In most of the cases with timely use of homeopathic medicines, the need of surgical intervention can be prevented in case of pus-filled lumps. Homeopathic medicines are helpful in both acute cases of pus discharge as well as the chronic cases. These also work wonderfully in cases where a person has tendency of pus formation quite easily and frequently.

Homeopathic Medicines For Relieving Pus

Though there are numerous homeopathic medicines for managing pus discharges, among these the top three recommended medicines are Silicea, Hepar Sulph and Myristica.

1. Silicea – Top Most Medicine

Silicea leads the chart of homeopathic medicines to deal with conditions with pus formation. It is the most frequently recommended and used remedy for conditions with pus formation. It can effectively treat several conditions like pustules, folliculitis, boils, abscess, carbuncles and fistula. It either aids absorption of pus or helps in expulsion of pus from the infection site quickly varying from case to case. In cases needing it, the pus is thin and watery. It may either be scanty or excessive. It has a very foul smell. In some cases of pus-filled lumps, hard nodes remain behind after pus discharges are clear at the infection site. In that case as well, silicea acts wonderfully to dissolve the hard nodes.

2. Hepar Sulph – With Throbbing Type Of Pain

Hepar Sulph is an excellent medicine when there is throbbing type of pain at the pus-filled area. The pain tends to get worse at night and also from exposure to cold air. It is very effective in case of boils and abscess. In such cases, the area over the infected lump is warm, hard and swollen. Pus discharge may be blood stained. It has a very fetid smell. This medicine helps to clear off pus discharge magnificently. This medicine is also beneficial for treating pustules (pus-filled eruptions). Next it is helpful for quinsy (pus accumulation behind the tonsil), dental abscess (pus build-up in the teeth or gums) and ear infection with white cheesy offensive, blood-stained pus discharge from the ear. Hepar Sulph is also indicated when every injury however little tends to have pus formation in it eventually.

3. Myristica – To Hasten Pus Discharge

It is a very powerful medicine when it comes to hastening the process of pus discharge. This medicine speeds up expulsion of pus discharge from the site of infection or lump and shortens the time of healing process. This medicine is known to prevent surgical intervention in case of pus-related conditions when given at the right time without any delay. Some examples of such conditions include boils, abscess, carbuncles, pus in the joints, ear infections with pus discharge and anal fistula.

4. Calcarea Sulph – For Yellow Pus Discharges

It is the most important medicine when it comes to treat cases of yellow pus discharges. It is of great help in treating boils, abscesses and pustular acne. It is also a very useful medicine for treating cuts and wounds where pus is discharged. Another indication for its use is painful abscess around the anus and also anal fistula. This medicine is also considered when pus discharges occur in case of burns or scalds. Lastly, it can be used in case of tonsillitis with pus formation and chilblains (swelling, itching of skin from exposure to cold temperature) when attended with pus formation.

5. Merc Sol – For Greenish Pus Discharge

Merc Sol is very suitable to manage cases where green-colored pus discharges occur. The discharge is thin. It is often blood streaked. It has a putrid smell. There is burning and stinging in the area of pus collection. Its use is considered in case of abscess and pustules (pus-filled eruptions). Next, it is a valuable medicine for quinsy (pus collection behind tonsils). Lastly, it is of help in cases of Herpes Zoster (a skin rash with painful blisters caused by varicella zoster virus) when the eruptions tend to have pus in them.

6. Calendula – To Prevent Pus Formation In Wounds And Surgical Cuts

Calendula is the best medicine to prevent pus formation in wounds (injuries that cause break in skin) and at the site of surgical cuts. Besides this, it is also indicated for ulcers that secrete pus. The surrounding area of ulcers is red. There is marked pain in ulcers.

7. Lachesis – For Boils, Carbuncles With Bluish Purple Surrounding

Lachesis is the best choice of medicine for boils, carbuncles with bluish purple surrounding. It is attended with excessive burning sensation. Besides, Lachesis is indicated to manage pus formation along with inflammation in internal organs. Its use is also considered in case of ulcers in throat with fetid pus formation and pain when swallowing food.

8. Arsenic Album – When Ulcers Discharge Pus

This medicine is effective when ulcers discharge pus. The pus is blood stained. The base of the ulcer looks blue or black. There is marked pain and burning with relief from heat application.

9. Pulsatilla – For Yellowish Green Pus

This medicine is useful when there is yellowish green pus discharge. It may be blood stained as well. Pus is profuse and thick. Stinging or cutting pains attend pus discharge. It is indicated for cases of abscess formation with bluish red swelling, burning and itching in the surrounding area. It also works well in case of pus discharge from ear along with marked pain.

 

 

Mucus is a normal slippery secretion produced by mucous membranes in the body. It is produced by membranes of the nose, sinuses, throat, respiratory tract and also digestive tract, urinary system, genitals, eyes and ears. Some amount of mucus produced naturally in the nose and throat is important as it functions to trap germs (like bacteria, viruses, dust, dirt) and prevents their entry into the lungs. But in case of some infection or allergy, mucus production tends to increase, it gets thick and also changes in color.

In case of infection, white blood cells are produced in excess and move to the airways to fight infection. The neutrophils present in white blood cells give the mucus yellow or green color. Yellow mucus in the nose, throat and lungs can be caused due to various reasons. Some of the main reasons include common cold, sinusitis, bronchitis, pneumonia. The mucus (phlegm) expelled via coughing is called sputum. Depending on the cause behind yellow mucus several other symptoms can attend. These include sneezing, nasal blockage, PND (post nasal drip means dripping of mucus from back of the nose into the throat), headache, cough, difficult breathing, chest pain, fever and fatigue.

Homeopathic Treatment For Yellow Mucus

Homeopathy is of great help in managing cases of yellow mucus in the nose, throat and lungs. Homeopathic medicines work naturally in reducing mucus discharge by targeting the root cause behind it. Homeopathic medicines also manage the attending symptoms like nasal blockage, cough, sneezing, and headache quite effectively wherever present. The most suitable homeopathic medicine is selected individually for every case after detailed case analysis. Homeopathic medicines are safe and effective for persons of all age groups with zero side effects.

Top Homeopathic Medicines For Relieving Yellow Mucus 

1. Pulsatilla – Top Most Medicine

Pulsatilla is the leading homeopathic medicine to manage yellow discharge from nose, throat and lungs. It can be used when one is suffering from cold with thick yellow discharge from the nose. The discharge may have a fetid smell. The discharge is prominent in the morning and while a person is indoors. It gets better in the open. In the evening, blockage of the nose may be present. There may be loss of smell and taste as well in cases needing it. There may be sneezing, itching in the nose may be felt in the evening. Pulsatilla is also considered in cases of cough with thick yellow lumpy expectoration. It may have a bitter taste and gets worse in the morning.

 

2. Kali Bichrome – For Thick, Yellow, Sticky, Ropy Discharge

Kali Bichrome is the best medicine for cases of thick, yellow, sticky and ropy discharges. It is very effective for treating cold and sinusitis with this type of nasal discharge. Along with this, pressure or pain at the root of the nose is well marked. Nasal blockage can attend with difficulty breathing through the nose. An offensive smell may be felt in the nose from retained nasal secretions. Excessive sneezing in the morning can occur. This medicine is also most prominent to deal with yellow ropy post-nasal discharge. This medicine is the next best medicine for cough with yellow and sticky mucus expectoration. It comes out in long strings like a thread.

3. Hepar Sulph – For Rattling Cough With Yellow Expectoration

This medicine is helpful when there is rattling cough with yellow expectoration. The sputum expectorated is thick, yellow and sticky. It smells bad. Cough gets worse from exposure to cold air. There is wheezing in the chest. Hepar Sulph Next also benefits in cases of yellow nasal discharge. Yellow sticky discharge comes out from one nostril. There is blockage of nose when a person is out in cold air along with sneezing. Pain at the root of the nose is quite prominent. Heat and burning in the nose may also be felt.

4. Hydrastis – For thick yellow discharges

Hydrastis is recommended for cases of thick yellow discharges. The discharge occurs from nose and is sticky in nature. Burning and smarting in the nose is felt. Sneezing also occurs along with pressure above the eyes. Nose feels stuffed up. Pain may be felt in the front of the head. It is also an important medicine for thick yellow post-nasal discharge. Hydrastis also works well for loose cough with thick, yellow expectoration.

5. Calcarea Carb – For Yellow Discharge With Nasal Blockage

It is a suitable medicine for yellow nasal discharge with nasal blockage. There is great difficulty in breathing through the nose. Blockage gets worse at night time. There is alteration between yellow nasal discharge and nasal dryness. There is loss of smell. The root of the nose may be swollen. There is a tendency to catch cold whenever there is change of weather. Besides, it is also useful in case of thick yellow expectoration which is sour in taste and stinks badly. The expectoration occurs during the day only.

6. Silicea – For Thick, Yellow Offensive Mucus Discharge

It is a highly important medicine for managing cases of thick, yellow offensive mucus discharge. The discharge is mostly prominent in the morning. In cases needing it, sinusitis may be present with mainly frontal sinus involvement. In the morning, there is sneezing with drawing pain at the root of the nose. Nasal blockage may be present. Silicea is well indicated for excessive cough with thick, yellow expectoration especially while lying down. Silicea is also given in cases of hawking of yellow offensive mucus from the throat in the form of balls.

7. Lycopodium – For Thick, Yellow Discharge

This medicine is highly valuable for thick yellow discharge. In cases requiring it, along with discharge there is swelling of the nose. Besides, pain in the forehead is quite marked along with blockage of nose. It is significant medicine for cases of cough with thick, yellowish green expectoration. It has a salty taste. It also has a very offensive smell. The mucus may be blood streaked in some cases.

8. Calcarea Sulph – For Yellow Pus Like Discharge Tinged With Blood

This medicine is frequently indicated for managing yellow pus like discharge tinged with blood. The discharge occurs from the nose and may be one from one side of the nose only. Sneezing may attend it. Such discharge may also occur as post nasal discharge (PND). It is also indicated for thick lumpy yellow expectoration streaked with blood.

9. Kali Sulph – For Yellow Sticky Discharge

For yellow sticky discharges, this medicine can be used. It may alternate with watery discharge. Nose feels obstructed. Kali Sulph is also considered when there is cough with difficult expectoration of yellow mucus.

What causes yellow mucus?

1. Common cold: It is a viral infection of the nose and throat. It can arise from various viruses among which the most common is rhinoviruses. It causes nasal discharge and other symptoms including sneezing, stuffy nose, sore throat, PND and cough. Additionally, headache, fatigue, body aches and fever can also occur.

2. Sinusitis: It refers to inflammation of paranasal sinuses i.e. air-filled cavities inside the skull bone. It causes nasal discharge, PND, headache, pain in head or face, stuffy nose, and ear fullness.

3. Bronchitis: It refers to inflamed bronchial tubes that carry air to and from lungs. It leads to cough with mucus production, breathing difficulty, fever, chest pain, wheezing from chest and weakness.

4. Pneumonia: Inflammation of air sacs of lungs from an infection is termed as pneumonia. It causes productive cough (means along with mucus production), chest pain on taking deep breath, shortness of breath, fever and chills.

5. Tuberculosis: It is an infection of the lungs caused by bacteria mycobacterium tuberculosis. The symptoms include cough with phlegm, fever, night sweats, breathing difficulty, chest pain, appetite loss, weight loss and fatigue.

6. Bronchiectasis: It is one of the types of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in which there occurs damage and widening of the bronchi. Symptoms include cough with excessive amount of offensive expectoration, chest pain, wheezing, weight loss and fatigue.

 

 

Piles refers to swollen, dilated, inflamed veins around the anus and/or in the lower rectum. In many women, piles tend to appear for the very first time during pregnancy or after delivery. It is quite a common problem and it has been estimated that around 40 per cent of pregnant women, and women after childbirth tend to develop piles. When piles develop after delivery, it is known as postpartum hemorrhoids. Its signs and symptoms include swelling or lump around the anus, pain with passing of stool and/or after stool, anal burning, rectal bleeding and anal itching. Having piles during pregnancy increases risk of postpartum (period after delivery) hemorrhoids.

Why Homeopathic Treatment Of Piles?

Homeopathy offers a natural and effective treatment of piles after delivery. Homeopathic medicines are prepared from natural substances so have zero side-effects. They help in reducing swelling and inflammation of veins and improve blood flow. Besides, they also bring relief in symptoms like pain, burning, itching and bleeding of piles. Constipation (which is the main predisposing factor for piles) is also treated well with these medicines. Though it is safe to use homeopathic medicines, it is advised to consult a homeopathic physician prior to taking any homeopathic medicine for treating piles after delivery. Homeopathic medicines for treating piles after delivery are recommended based on individual symptoms in each and every case.

Top Homeopathic Medicines For Piles In Women

1. Sepia – Top Grade Medicine

Sepia is the leading medicine to manage numerous health concerns in females and one among them is piles after delivery. It is helpful almost in treating every case of piles after delivery. It can be used when there is swelling at anus along with marked pain. Pain is worse when passing stool. A stitching pain from the anus to rectum is felt. Anus is sore to touch.  Secondly, it can be given for managing burning sensation at the anus. Next, it can be used for piles that protrude out while passing stool. It can also handle cases with marked itching in anus and rectum. It can also treat marked constipation with large and hard stool. There is lack of urge to pass stool for many days together in cases that would require this medicine.

2. Nux Vomica – With Constipation And Ineffectual Urge To Pass Stool

Nux Vomica is the most important medicine for piles in which a person has constipation with an ineffectual urge to pass stool. It is recommended for women who have a constant urge to pass stool. Each time they go to pass stool, only little is evacuated at a time and there is a feeling of dissatisfaction and it feels as if some more feces will be passed. They suffer from piles attended with marked pain and burning sensation. They also complain of itching at the anus.

3. Aesculus – For Painful Piles

Aesculus is the most beneficial medicine to relieve pain from piles. It is used when piles pain is felt during or after stool. Pain is sharp shooting in nature. The pain can even be felt for many hours after passing stool. A sensation of multiple small pricking sticks in the rectum is present which is a characteristic feature for recommending Aesculus.

4. Kali Carb – With Intense Burning

This medicine is recommended when there is intense burning sensation due to piles. It may feel as if the piles are burning like fire. Cold water application temporarily gives relief. It is also helpful in managing inflamed piles that are very sensitive to touch. In cases needing it, the piles are large and are attended with stinging, tearing, pinching, or needle-like stitching pain. Itching is felt in the anus. Kali Carb is also useful for treating bleeding piles.

5. Hamamelis – To manage bleeding

Hamamelis is very effective in controlling bleeding from piles. The bleeding may be slight or profuse in cases needing it. The bleeding is attended with weakness. Burning sensation and soreness around anus is felt.

6. Pulsatilla – For Non-Bleeding Piles

Pulsatilla works magnificently in cases of non – bleeding piles (means blind piles). In cases needing it, there is burning or cutting pain in the rectum when passing stool. Stitching pain may be felt at times. Protrusion of internal piles may be noted. Itching is felt, especially on lying down and in the evening.

7. Aloe – For Piles That Bulge Out Of Anus (Protruding Piles)

Aloe is highly suitable to treat protruding piles. In cases needing Aloe, the piles at anus look like a bunch of bluish-colored grapes. The piles are painful, sore and tender. Cold water application over piles gives relief.

8. Ignatia – With Sharp Stitching Pain

Ignatia works wonderfully in cases where sharp stitching pain in anus and rectum is felt. Pain occurs even if the stool is soft, pain gets worse while standing or sitting. Sometimes slight anal bleeding can occur.

9. Lilium Tigrinum – For Painful Sore Piles

Lilium Tigrinum is indicated for painful, sore piles. Piles are highly sore to touch. These are itchy too. Besides, there is severe constipation. When bearing down while passing stool, it feels as if all the pelvic organs would protrude through the vagina.

10. Muriatic Acid – When Piles Are Painful To Touch

Like the above medicines, this medicine also suits a person well when piles are highly sensitive and painful to touch. Even the slightest touch of the hemorrhoids is not bearable. The piles look bluish or dark purple. Stitching pain is felt along with sensitivity. Heat application offers relief.

11. Sulphur – For Burning And Pain In Piles

Sulphur is well-indicated for piles with marked burning and pain at the anus. In cases needing Sulphur, the piles are very large. Stitching or shooting type of pain occurs in piles. During and after passing stool, burning occurs in the piles. Bleeding from piles may also arise. A pressing sensation in rectum can also be felt.

12. Collinsonia – With Constipation With Dry, Hard Stool

Use of Collinsonia is considered when there are piles along with constipation with dry and hard stool. It can be given for bleeding or non-bleeding piles, external piles (located on the skin around the anus that can be seen or felt from the outside) or protruding piles (internal piles that protrude out of anus). The piles are painful. The sensation of sand or sticks in rectum can be quite prominent.

13. Podophyllum – For Piles With Rectal Prolapse

This medicine is valuable to handle cases where piles are accompanied by prolapse of rectum (slipping out of the lower part of rectum out from anus). The piles can be bleeding or non-bleeding. The anus is swollen, sore and sensitive to touch.  Prolapse of rectum occurs while passing stool.

What Causes Piles During Pregnancy And After Childbirth?

If we talk of piles during pregnancy, usually piles occur during the third trimester (last three months of pregnancy). During pregnancy, extra pressure is exerted on the abdomen and the pelvic area from the growing baby. As a result, circulation of blood to the pelvic area is affected resulting in pooling of blood in the veins. Secondly, increased progesterone levels cause relaxation of walls of the veins predisposing them to get swollen. Additionally, constipation (which is one of the major reason behind piles) is a common problem faced by many women during pregnancy due to hormonal changes (which slows down movement of food through the gastric tract), pressure put by the growing baby on the intestines of the mother, intake of iron and calcium supplements that can also contribute to piles during pregnancy. Intense straining and prolonged pushing during labor pains also contribute to piles after childbirth. Piles are common especially after vaginal delivery, however it can still arise after a C-section. An instrumental delivery (like forceps delivery in which a doctor uses a tool to grasp the head of the baby to get the baby out of the birth canal) also increases risk of piles.

 

 

 

Our feet can handle heavy stress but overstressing them can irritate the tissues of the feet that may lead to pain in the heel. Pain may be felt under the heel, behind it, on the inner or the outer side of the heel varying from case to case. The reasons for heel pain are variable. Heel pain can be attended with swelling, stiffness and tenderness of heel, bony growth on heel and discoloration over heel.

Homeopathic medicines are highly effective in treating heel pain. Homeopathic medicines for heel pain are very safe and carry no risk of adverse side-effects. They are helpful in both acute and chronic heel pain. They act on the root of the problem to stop recurrence of the disease process. In mainstream medicine, pain killers are mainly recommended for heel pain. But these offer short term help and lead to side effects with prolonged usage. While homeopathic medicines give long-term relief and cure with well selected medication.

Homeopathic medicines work by treating the root cause behind heel pain. They stimulate the disease fighting mechanism of the body to address the underlying reason. As the root cause is treated, pain gets eradicated completely. Heel pain from inflammation of joints/tendons/fascia, high uric acid, bone spurs are curable with natural homeopathic medicines. It may take varying time period to completely cure pain in the heel from its root depending on the chronicity and intensity of the pain.

Homeopathic remedies for heel pain are prescribed according to the peculiar characteristic symptoms experienced by each patient along with the cause behind it. After medicine selection, the potency and dose are finalised for each case separately. It is advised to take any homeopathic medicine for heel pain after consulting a homeopathic doctor. A proper course of homeopathic treatment results in a complete cure in these cases.

Homeopathic medicines are prepared from naturally occurring substances that do not contain any harmful chemicals in it. Thereby rendering them safe to use with zero side effects. Homeopathic medicines can be used safely by persons of all age groups to treat heel pain.

Top 5 Homeopathic Medicines for Heel Pain

The top recommended Homeopathic medicines for heel pain are Rhus Tox, Aranea Diadema, Ruta, Ledum Pal and Colchicum.

1. Rhus Tox – Top Remedy For Heel Pain

Rhus Tox is a leading homeopathic medicine for heel pain. It is indicated when the pain in the heel gets worse with every step as one starts walking, but gradually decreases as the person continues to walk. It gets worse when the person stands up in the morning, after sleep. A stitching type of pain is most marked in heels. The pain is felt as if one is stepping on pins or iron nails. Rhus Tox works well when the heels are over-stressed and strained leading to heel pain. Over-stretched, over-strained Achilles’ tendon or plantar fascia leading to inflammation and heel pain can also be treated effectively with Rhus Tox. In case of heel pain arising from arthritis (joint inflammation), it is a wonderful remedy.
When to use Rhus Tox?
Rhus Tox is the best choice of medicine to manage heel pain when it gets worse on taking the initial few steps when beginning to walk and gets better by continuous walking. It works magnificently in heel pain cases occurring from over-strained tendons and inflamed joints.
How to use Rhus Tox?
Rhus Tox can be used in both low and high potencies. However, it is suggested to start with low potency like 30C that can be taken two to three times a day.

2. Aranea Diadema – For Heel Pain From Spurs

Aranea Diadema is very effective for heel pain from calcaneal spurs. It is indicated for boring, digging type of pain in the heel from bony outgrowths. Numbness in the heel may be alternated with pain in a few cases.
When to use Aranea Diadema?
It is a useful medicine to deal with cases of heel pain occurring due to calcaneal spurs.
How to use Aranea Diadema?
It is advised to use this medicine one or two times a day in 30C power.

3. Ruta – For Heel Pain From Stress / Strain Over Heel And Tendinitis

Ruta is a wonderful homeopathic medicine for heel pain occurring from stress or strain on the heel or from tendinitis (tendon inflammation). The pain from the heel may extend to toes in cases needing it. Ruta is also indicated for heel pain from joint inflammation. Mostly, Ruta is helpful for relieving shooting pain especially in the left heel.

When to use Ruta?
Ruta is an excellent medicine for heel pain due to stress and overstraining of heel and also results from inflamed tendon.

How to use Ruta?
Among its various potencies, it is best to begin with 30C potency once or twice a day.

4. Ledum Pal – For Heel Pain Worse From Walking

Ledum Pal is a suitable medicine for cases where heel pain worsens from walking. A tensed feeling in the heel also accompanies. In most cases, the pain may also be felt in the soles of feet. This medicine also acts well on Achilles tendon to reduce its inflammation.
When to use Ledum Pal?
This medicine works well in cases of heel pain when it gets worse when walking.
How to use Ledum Pal?
This medicine can be taken in 30C potency once or twice a day.

5. Colchicum – For Heel Pain From Gout

Colchicum is a highly valuable medicine for heel pain from gout (joint inflammation from high uric acid). In cases requiring it, the heel pain gets worse with movement and touch. Tearing type of pain is felt in the heel. Along with pain, swelling is also present. The heel feels contracted besides the above complaints.
When to use Colchicum?
This medicine is recommended to manage heel pain resulting from gout i.e. inflamed joints due to high uric acid.
How to use Colchicum?
Usually, it is utilised in 30C potency two to three times a day.

Causes of Heel pain

Heel pain can arise from various causes as follows:

1. Plantar fasciitis: Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of plantar fascia that is present at the bottom of the foot. The plantar fascia is a tissue band that connects heel bone to the toes at the bottom of the feet. Repeated stress and strain on this fascia can lead to its inflammation. The pain in heel from plantar fasciitis is most marked when getting out of bed in morning on taking the first few steps.
2. Heel spur: it is an abnormal bony growth at the bottom of the heel from a build-up of calcium deposit. It develops from repeated stress over the heel. Pain from a heel spur gets worse on walking and standing.
3. Achilles tendinitis: Achilles tendinitis is the inflammation of the Achilles’ tendon – a band of tissue that connects the calf muscle in the back of leg to the heel bone.

4. Rheumatoid arthritis: An autoimmune disease affecting the small joints of the body, it leads to inflammation, pain, stiffness and deformity (in very chronic cases) in affected joints.
5. Gout: It is a joint disease arising from high uric acid levels. When uric acid gets deposited in various body joints, it leads to marked pain, tenderness and swelling.
6. Sprains and strains: Thy result from excessive physical activity.
7. Fracture: Break in the bone is referred to as fracture.
8. Heel Bursitis: Bursa is a fluid-filled sac surrounding a joint that functions to reduce friction in the different structures of the joint when it moves. The pain may occur in the back of the heel or deep in the heel.
9. Reactive arthritis: This is a type of arthritis (joint inflammation) that triggers from an infection.
10. Ankylosing spondylitis: An autoimmune joint inflammation disorder majorly affecting sacroiliac joint (joint at the base of spine and pelvis). In some cases, it can affect the back of the heel as well.
11. Tarsal tunnel syndrome: In this syndrome, compression of a nerve in the back of the foot leads to heel pain.

12. Haglund’s deformity: There is bony enlargement at the back of the heel occurring from rubbing of footwear or pressure on the back of the heel.
13. Osetomyelitis: Bone infection
14. Sever’s disease (Calcaneal Apophysitis): It occurs in children between age of 8 yrs to 14yrs from repeated trauma to growth plate of heel pain.

Risk factors

Though anyone can get heel pain but certain factors increase the risk as follows:

1. Activities that put excessive strain and pressure on feet like excessive running, jumping or excessive standing

2. Being overweight

3. Wearing ill-fitted shoes

4. Having a flat foot

5. Having arthritis of feet

6. Having tight calf muscles

 

Post Herpetic Neuralgia (PHN) is a complication of Herpes Zoster also known as Shingles. Herpes Zoster is a viral infection caused by reactivation of Varicella Zoster virus (it is the same virus that causes chicken pox). Herpes Zoster is characterised by painful rash or blisters (fluid-filled bumps) on skin. The rash will only be on one side of the body, either right or left, in a particular area in a band-like pattern. If the pain of Herpes Zoster continues for more than three months in the affected skin areas after the skin rash has healed, then it is known as Post Herpetic Neuralgia. In one out of five people who get infected by Herpes Zoster, the person will have nerve pain following the healing of the rash. The stabbing type of pain may vary from discomfort to severe. Along with pain, burning, increased sensitivity, weakness of the affected skin area may also arise. The pain may continue for weeks, months or even a year after the rash has healed.

Homeopathy is highly effective in treating neuralgic complaints i.e. nerve pain. Homeopathic medicines for post herpetic neuralgia are deep acting remedies that can help resolve the problem.  As a first step, homeopathy controls the intensity and frequency of the pain. Then the medicines work to remove the chronic and recurrent pain. In mainstream medicine, painkillers, steroids, pain-relieving skin patches, anti-convulsants and anti-depressants are given to manage pain in cases of post herpetic neuralgia. These give temporary pain relief but the pain does not get cured completely. In homeopathy, the medicines are given to resolve the pain from its root and give a complete cure.

With the use of homeopathic medicines, the burning sensation, hypersensitivity, itchy feeling associated with this condition also gets healed. This is because the medicines are given keeping in mind the totality of the symptoms that work on every aspect of the disease. The symptoms though, get better gradually, may take some time but once relief sets in, the complaint gets better till it goes away completely in a few months’ time.

Homeopathy aims to fight the viral infection in PHN cases by boosting the self-healing mechanism of the body. This way it does not just work superficially; rather it works deeply to eradicate the root cause behind it. Therefore, it ensures that the condition gets treated from its origin and that too in the most harmless and natural way.

Homeopathic medicines used to treat post herpetic neuralgia are 100% safe with zero side effects as these are sourced from natural substances. These medicines are used in highly diluted doses that ensure safe recovery.

5 Top Homeopathic Medicines For Post Herpetic Neuralgia (PHN)

The top most recommended homeopathic medicines to treat PHN are Mezereum, Ranunculus Bulbosus, Arsenic Album, Dolichos and Rhus Tox.

1. Mezereum – For Postherpetic Neuralgia With Intense Burning

Mezereum is rated among the best medicines for post herpetic neuralgia. It is the best-suited prescription when PHN pains are violent and are attended with marked burning sensation. Mezereum also helps during active Herpes Zoster when eruptions arise on the skin. The key symptoms to look out for before prescribing Mezereum during Herpes Zoster infection are violently itching vesicles with shining red areola and intense burning.

When to use Mezereum?

Mezereum is a highly suitable medicine to manage post herpetic neuralgia with severe burning pains.

How to use Mezereum?

This medicine can be used once a day in 30C potency.

2. Ranunculus Bulbosus – For Sharp, Stitching Pains Coming In Paroxysms (Sudden Attack)

Ranunculus Bulbosus is indicated for sharp, stitching PHN pains that come in paroxysms. It is also one of the top listed medicines for intercostal neuralgia following herpetic infection. Ranunculus Bulbosus is well indicated for Herpes Zoster when the vesicle eruptions are bluish in color. The eruptions are attended with itching and burning symptoms which worsen on contact.

When to use Ranunculus Bulbosus?

It is an excellent medicine for PHN when pains are sharp, stitching type occurring in sudden attacks

How to use Ranunculus Bulbosus?

It is advised to use this medicine in 30C power once or twice a day.

3. Arsenic Album – To Manage Burning Sort of Nerve Pains Worse At Night

Another prominently indicated medicine for PHN with burning pains besides Mezereum is Arsenic Album. In cases needing this medicine, the burning pain is very severe at night. Arsenic Album is also given to manage itching on the skin. Restlessness can attend these symptoms. It is also indicated to manage active Herpes Zoster outbreak when marked burning pain is felt in the eruptions. These eruptions might be covered with scales like fish in most of the cases.

When to use Arsenic Album?

This medicine is well indicated to manage burning type of pains in PHN cases when pains are worse at night.

How to use Arsenic Album?

Arsenic Album 30C should be taken once a day only.

4. Dolichos – To Manage pain and Skin Itching Without Any Rash Or Eruptions

Dolichos is yet another natural remedy to relieve post-herpetic nerve pains. Along with pains there is skin itching occurring without any rash or eruptions. For Herpes Zoster, this medicine is mostly indicated when eruptions begin in the armpit, especially on the left side that spreads to the sternum (bone in middle of chest) and to the spine. It is accompanied by smarting and burning sort of pain.

When to use Dolichos?

Dolichos is of great use when there are pains attended with skin itching in cases of post herpetic neuralgia.

How to use Dolichos?

One may take this medicine in 30C power two to three times a day as per the intensity of the complaint.

5. Rhus Tox – For Pain With Restlessness And Sensitivity Of Skin To Cold Air

It is one of the best medicines for PHN where the pains are attended with marked restlessness. The skin is sensitive to cold air in such cases. In Herpes Zoster, Rhus Tox is the most preferred among medicines when the vesicles are yellowish with itching and stinging.

When to use Rhus Tox?

This medicine can be considered in PHN cases when pain occurs along with restlessness and sensitivity of skin to cold air.

How to use Rhus Tox?

Though it can be used in different potencies but in the beginning,  it is best to take it in 30C potency twice a day.

What are the Symptoms of PHN?

The symptoms appear on the skin area affected with Herpes Zoster eruptions and are usually one-sided.

1. Pain after rash of Herpes Zoster has healed – Pain remains for 3 months or more. In some cases, it may last for one year or more. Pain can be aching, sharp, stabbing, throbbing, electric shock like, or burning on nature. The pain can be continuous or intermittent. Pain may get worse at night or from cold or hot temperature.

2. Even the slightest touch on the affected area is painful, this area may also be sensitive to cold air.

3. Numbness, tingling or itching on the affected skin region, though it is not very common

4. Very rarely, muscle weakness and tremors occur, if the affected nerve involved controls muscle movement too

5. Scarring on skin on affected area may be seen

What are the Causes behind Post Herpetic Neuralgia?

Post Herpetic Neuralgia, as mentioned in the beginning, is a complication of Herpes Zoster. Herpes Zoster is a viral disease leading to painful skin eruptions caused by varicella zoster virus. Varicella zoster virus is the virus that causes chicken pox when a person gets infected with this virus initially for the first time. Though the person recovers from chicken pox within weeks, the virus remains in the nerve cells in an inactive state. This virus can reactivate any time it finds a suitable environment like low immunity, some sort of medicines, etc. When the dormant virus gets reactivated, it leads to Herpes Zoster or Shingles with painful skin eruptions. The Herpes Zoster rash resolves within two to four weeks’ time. In some cases, even after the skin eruptions completely resolve, the pain continues for months or years together. This nerve pain persists for more than three months. The PHN results from damage to nerve fibres caused by Herpes Zoster virus. As a result of damaged nerve fibers, the message of transmission from the skin to the brain cannot be passed normally. This nerve gets muddled, transmitting random pain signals to the brain when pain is burning, excruciating.

Risk Factors

Certain factors increase the risk of PHN as follows:

1. Old age: The risk of PHN increases with age. Those above 50 yrs of age are at risk, PHN is rare under 40 yrs of age.

2. Herpes Zoster on the face or trunk (body part except head, neck and limbs)

3. Weak immune system: The immune system may be compromised due to certain medical conditions, such as cancer or HIV, or certain medications, such as steroids, chemotherapy, and immunosuppressant medicines.

4. Intensity of the skin rash due to Herpes Zoster is highly intense

5. Women are more at risk than men

6. Diabetes