Is moxibustion effective for lumbar disc herniation?

Written by Na Hong Wei

Orthopedics

Updated on September 12, 2024

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As an important treatment method in traditional Chinese medicine, moxibustion has very good therapeutic effects for treating lumbar disc herniation. As long as the acupuncture points are correctly selected, the treatment effect is very good. Specifically, if you choose to use moxibustion for treatment, the main point would be the Jiaji points, and this should include the two adjacent vertebrae. For example, for a L4-L5 disc herniation, you should select points L1 to L5. Auxiliary points should be chosen based on different symptoms of the patient, in combination with different acupoints. For example, if the waist pain is significant, combine with the affected side's Yaoyan point. If the buttock muscles are tense, combine with Huanjiao and Yibian points. If the posterior thigh muscles are tense, combine with Chengfu, Yinmen, and Weizhong points. If there is numbness on the lateral thigh, combine with Fengshi. For numbness in the calf, combine with Weiyang, Chengshan, Yanglingquan, Zusanli, and Xuanzhong points. If the dorsum of the foot is numb, combine with Taixi, Jiexi, and Xiexi.

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Written by Na Hong Wei

Orthopedics

1min 40sec

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Lumbar disc herniation has what manifestations?

Lumbar disc herniation has the following clinical manifestations. First, lower back pain accompanied by unilateral radiating pain in the lower limbs. Second, numbness in the localized area. Third, weakness in the toes. Fourth, decreased temperature in the affected limb. Upon examination, the first finding is a reduced natural anterior curve of the lumbar spine, which we refer to as a flat or board-like back. Second, it can also cause the lumbar spine to bend to one side, possibly toward the affected side or the healthy side, depending on the location of the herniation. Third, there is a fixed tender point beside the lumbar spine, which plays an active role in diagnosis and treatment. Fourth, due to pain, there is a limitation in the movement of the lower back; normally, the lumbar spine can flex 45 degrees forward, extend 20 degrees backward, and bend 30 degrees to each side. If these ranges of motion are not achievable, it indicates a significant limitation in lumbar activity. Fifth is the neurological localization examination, which primarily involves different sensory disturbances, motor disturbances, or muscle atrophy depending on the site of compression. There are also some special tests, like the straight leg raise test, reinforcement test, healthy side leg raise test, as well as the neck flexion test and femoral nerve stretch test. Lastly, additional diagnostic tests like CT or MRI can provide specific information on the location and stage of the lumbar disc herniation.

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Written by Su Zhen Bo

Orthopedics

56sec

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Can a herniated lumbar disc cause leg pain?

Patients with lumbar disc herniation can experience leg pain, which is a typical clinical manifestation. After the nucleus pulposus protrudes, it can stimulate the dura mater and nerve roots, causing pain in the leg areas innervated by the nerves, or localized skin numbness, and decreased muscle strength in the lower limbs. Some patients may also experience difficulties bending over or walking normally. Additionally, some may have abnormal bowel and bladder function, and exhibit changes in reflexes like hyperactive or absent knee and Achilles reflexes. Diagnostic confirmation can be achieved through electromyography, as well as CT scans and MRI of the lumbar spine. For treatment, patients may be advised to lie flat on a hard bed, use lumbar support, and employ pelvic traction. Additionally, treatments such as massage and manipulation may be recommended.

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Written by Na Hong Wei

Orthopedics

1min 15sec

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What should I do if I have a lumbar disc herniation flare-up?

Once a herniated disc occurs, the first step should be general treatment, which involves rest and lying on a hard bed. A soft pillow should be placed under the waist and a soft pad behind the knee joints to help with triangular support recovery and reduce spinal pressure. Second, treatment with traditional Chinese medicine and herbs can be considered, which includes both oral and topical medications and usually has good effects. Third, traction and massage therapy can be considered. Traction is notably effective during the acute phase of a herniated disc. It mainly helps by reducing the pressure on the intervertebral discs, adjusting the gaps in the intervertebral foramina, and thus alleviating the irritation and compression on the nerve roots. Fourth, acupuncture and massage can also be considered, as acupuncture is particularly effective in alleviating symptoms of a herniated disc. Other treatments include small-needle scalpel therapy, target disc decompression through radiofrequency, disc intra-injections, or epidural block. If these treatments do not show significant results, or if there is no improvement and symptoms of cauda equina syndrome appear, then surgical treatment may be necessary.

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Written by Nie Lei Sheng

Orthopedics

47sec

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What role does embedding therapy play in lumbar disc herniation?

Thread embedding therapy for lumbar disc herniation is a category of Traditional Chinese Medicine treatment. Its function is similar to acupressure, acupuncture, and moxibustion, primarily involving the insertion of absorbable threads into specific acupoints or meridians to continuously stimulate and regulate these areas. This treatment is based on Traditional Chinese Medicine theory. Some patients may achieve good results, but others may not find it effective. It is advised that patients with lumbar disc herniation should seek treatment at a legitimate hospital. While thread embedding therapy can be attempted, it does not guarantee good results for all patients. Oral medication may be necessary, and in severe cases, surgical intervention might be required.

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Written by Guan Yu Hua

Orthopedic Surgery

1min 1sec

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Contraindications of Lumbar Disc Herniation

Patients with lumbar disc herniation mainly exhibit symptoms such as discomfort in the lower back, numbness in the lower limbs, and pain. These are primarily symptoms of sciatica, such as numbness and pain along the back and outer sides of the thighs, calves, and dorsum of the foot. Patients may find it difficult to put on shoes and socks in the morning, and sometimes they may feel as if their tendons are short when walking. It is generally recommended that patients strictly rest on a hard bed and warm up the lumbar region. They can also take some blood-activating and pain-relieving medications. The main precautions include avoiding bending over to lift heavy objects, carrying heavy items, and bearing heavy loads. Patients should avoid sitting or squatting for long periods and should try to lie flat or walk upright instead. If conservative treatment for lumbar disc herniation is ineffective, interventional surgical treatment may be sought.