Low Back Pain _{(Lumbar Strain/Disc Herniation)}

Lower back pain, or lumbar strain, is a common and often debilitating condition that can affect individuals of all ages. The cause of this condition may be numerous, from sports injuries, repeated sitting, falls, anatomical or structural imbalance (such as foot length), and others. One prevalent cause of chronic or acute lower back pain is disc herniation, which occurs when the soft, gel-like center of a spinal disc pushes through its tougher exterior.What Is Disc Herniation?The spine is made up of vertebrae separated by intervertebral discs that act as cushions and provide flexibility. A disc herniation happens when the disc’s inner material (nucleus pulposus) protrudes through the outer layer (annulus fibrosus). This can put pressure on nearby nerves, resulting in pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness that can radiate through the lower back and down the legs (sciatica).Causes of Lumbar Disc HerniationAge-related degeneration: Over time, discs can lose water content and elasticity, making them more prone to injury.Sudden trauma: Accidents or abrupt movements can cause discs to bulge or rupture.Repetitive stress: Heavy lifting, improper posture, or repetitive bending can contribute to disc strain.Genetic factors: Some individuals are more predisposed to developing disc issues due to hereditary influences.Symptoms to Watch ForSharp or persistent pain in the lower backPain that radiates to the buttocks, thighs, or calvesMuscle weakness or reduced mobilityNumbness or tingling in the legs or feetThese symptoms can vary in intensity and may become worse with prolonged sitting, bending, or lifting.Acupuncture can play a crucial role in managing and alleviating lumbar pain due to disc herniation. At our clinic, our expert acupuncturists use tailored programs to reduce pain, improve spinal function, and prevent future injuries. Key components of our treatment plan include:Acupuncture Treatment: the affected areas as well as any areas that are structurally related to the load-bearing work of the lower back will be treated as a primary concern. Electrical stimulation will be applied to these areas to relieve the often shortened muscles, decreasing the tension that is placed on the nerve.Targeted exercises: Strengthening core and back muscles to provide support and enhance stability.Education on posture and ergonomics: Guidance on body mechanics and posture to reduce stress on the spine.Early intervention and a proactive approach are essential for preventing chronic pain and enhancing recovery. Our team is committed to providing a personalized care plan to help you regain mobility and return to your daily activities with confidence.Treatment Case 1: 54-year-old maleA 54-year-old university researcher came to our clinic experiencing persistent lower back pain due to a lumbar disc herniation. The disc herniation happened about a month and a half ago, and while they were treated at the ER and discharged, the pain and discomfort still remained from time to time. The patient’s demanding work required long hours of sitting and extensive data analysis, exacerbating their condition. The symptoms included sharp lower back pain radiating to the left leg and periodic numbness. The patient found the “foreign sensation” especially diminishing to their quality of life as they liked to bike and run to clear their mind.A comprehensive approach was applied as this patient’s treatment plan, incorporating acupuncture as a core element of treatment:Initial assessment: The patient’s medical history and current symptoms were thoroughly evaluated.Acupuncture sessions: needles were strategically placed at key points to improve blood flow, reduce inflammation, and alleviate nerve pressure.Adjunct therapy: Gentle stretching exercises and manual therapy supported the acupuncture sessions, helping to restore mobility and strengthen surrounding muscles.Lifestyle guidance: Recommendations on ergonomic adjustments and posture awareness were provided to prevent further strain.After six weeks of combined acupuncture and physiotherapy, the patient reported significant pain reduction and improved mobility. The numbness in the leg subsided, and they were able to return to their research activities with minimal discomfort. Continued maintenance treatments and posture education ensured sustained progress.