Pain

Lumbar disc herniation

Pain in the lumbar region and legs caused by a herniated disc is due to mechanical compression and an inflammatory irritant reaction. Poor lifestyle habits such as prolonged head and back work and prolonged sitting are important factors that can trigger a herniated disc.

Symptoms

  • Lower back pain and sciatica.

  • Numbness and weakness with radiating pain in the lower extremities

  • Scoliosis and limited mobility of the lumbar spine

  • Muscle atrophy or loss of muscle strength

  • Urinary and defecation disorders occur in patients with severe disc herniations.

Traditional Chinese medicine releases the blockages in the meridians so that the pain is relieved and the blood is activated while the channels are reopened. Local acupuncture points, the Directing Vessel and the Taiyang meridian of the foot are taken as the main points. Acupuncture and Tuina massage help to relieve pain, promote the circulation of Qi and blood and regulate muscle tone. Meanwhile, tuina massage also promotes the flow of qi and blood, which together can help relieve pain.

NUWA Health Tip: How can you prevent a herniated lumbar disc?

1. When sitting, keep your waist straight and sit so that your lumbar spine curves slightly forward. A cushion at the waist is helpful. Choose a high chair with a backrest.

2. When lying down, choose a hard mattress. If lying on your back, bend your knees slightly and place a small pillow under the back of your knees so that your waist falls naturally onto the bed; if lying on your side, bend your knees and hips.

3. when lifting heavy objects, try to bend the knee and bend the hip in a squatting position, keep heavy objects as close to the body as possible, and avoid bending over with the legs extended.

4. Avoid sudden efforts to bend or twist the lumbar spine and warm up well before strenuous exercise to improve the resistance of the spine.

5. Make sure to keep the lumbar region warm and wear suitable clothing that protects against the cold.

6. Exercise the lumbar and abdominal muscles with specific sports exercises.