‍What is herniated disc in the low back?

A herniated disc in the lumbar region, also known as a slipped or ruptured disc, happens when the soft inner part of a disc in your lower back pushes through the tough outer layer. Think of a disc like a jelly-filled donut, where the jelly can squeeze out if the outer part is damaged. This can put pressure on nearby nerves and cause discomfort. The symptoms of a herniated disc vary based on where the displaced disc puts pressure on the nerves. This can result in pain and numbness not only in the lower back but also in the legs and buttocks. If left unattended, it may lead to a decline in leg muscle strength, and in severe cases, it could lead to lower body paralysis.

What causes herniated disc in the low back?

The causes of a herniated disc in the low back are often linked to wear and tear over time. As we age, our discs lose some water content, making them less flexible and more prone to tearing. Activities like lifting heavy objects using your back muscles instead of your legs, or sudden twisting motions, can increase the risk of a disc herniation.

Things that our lumbar discs dislike:

• Sitting for a long time with crossed legs
• Repeatedly leaning backward in a chair
• Using the back muscles to lift heavy objects
• Excess body weight

Common Herniated Lumbar Disc Symptoms:

• Severe low back pain
• Pain, numbness, or tingling that can radiate down to a hip or one leg
• Weakness, pain, or tingling in the leg or foot
• Pain that gets worse when sitting, standing, or during certain movements
• Difficult to lie down in a straight position

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If you notice these symptoms, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and guidance.

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Evidence-Based Medicine for Low Back Pain and Lumbar Disc Herniation:

Research papers are revealing the effectiveness of acupuncture in addressing these symptoms.

In a meta-analysis encompassing 30 research trials with 3503participants, acupuncture emerged as more effective for low back pain caused by lumbar disc herniation compared to alternative treatments. The analysis demonstrated a higher success rate for acupuncture over lumbar traction, as well as conventional nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen, diclofenac sodium, and meloxicam [1]. These findings suggest that acupuncture could be a beneficial choice for patients experiencing low backpain due to lumbar disc herniation.

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Curious about more conditions we can help with related to Pain Management? Explore how we support Pain Management issues.

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Reference:

[1] Tang S, Mo Z, Zhang R. Acupuncture for Lumbar Disc Herniation: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Acupuncture in Medicine. 2018;36(2):62-70.doi:10.1136/acupmed-2016-011332

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Disclaimer:

This website and its contents are intended for informational purposes only and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Whenever possible, it is advised to seek professional care from a qualified healthcare professional for proper medical treatment.