The efficacy of the homeopathic remedy Discus Compositum® in the treatment of lumbar facet syndrome

M. Tech.Low back pain is experienced by approximately 60-90% of the population and is one of the most expensive public health problems today (Shin and Slipman, 2005). Lumbar facet joint syndrome is a common condition, involving about 79% of patients suffering from low back pain (Schleifer, et al., 1994). The aim of this study was to determine the effectiveness of treatment for lumbar facet syndrome with the homeopathic injectable Discus compositum® by using the pressure algometer, Helbig and Lee scorecard system and the Oswestry low back pain questionnaire. This double-blind placebo-control trial, with matched pairs, was conducted at the University of Johannesburg and participants were recruited with posters and by word of mouth. Thirty-two participants that met the inclusion criteria, and were not outside of treatment parameters, were included in the study. These participants were then randomly divided into two groups: Group A was treated with Discus compositum® injectables and Group B was treated with placebo injectables. In addition, participants were matched according to activity levels of more than 3 times per week and activity levels of less than 3 times per week. Participants in both groups were treated four times over a period of two weeks; two treatments per week. A one month post-injection follow-up consultation was carried out in order to determine if the treatment had a lasting effect. The subjective and objective data was analysed by using non-parametric tests in order to establish statistical significance between visits and between groups. The subjective data was obtained by using the Oswestry low back pain and disability questionnaire. The objective data was gathered by using the Helbig and Lee scorecard system as well as the algometer readings. The two sample groups did exhibit statistical differences. The results showed that there was a significant decrease in the pain experienced by the participants, as well as a significant change in the participant’s pain pressure threshold, for both groups. With regards to the diagnostic criteria a higher percentage of participants that were treated with Discus compositum® injections were no longer diagnosed with lumbar facet syndrome according to the Helbig and Lee scorecard system, than those participants that were treated with the placebo injections. In addition, it was determined that a combination of Discus compositum® injections and activity levels of more than 3 times per week proved to be beneficial. Based on the results of this study, one can determine that Discus compositum® is effective in the treatment of lumbar facet syndrome