Where to press for lumbar disc herniation

Written by Na Hong Wei

Orthopedics

Updated on September 17, 2024

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Massage for lumbar disc herniation involves main and auxiliary acupoints. The main acupoint is the Jiaji acupoint at the affected disc side, followed by the Jiaji acupoints immediately above and below it. Auxiliary acupoints are chosen based on the patient's specific symptoms. Typically, if there is significant lower back pain, the affected side's Yaoyan acupoint is used. For tense gluteal muscles with tenderness, the Huanjiao acupoint is selected. If there is muscle tension on the back of the thigh, the Yinmen and Hebei acupoints are advisable. If numbness occurs on the outer side of the thigh, the Fengsi acupoint should be used. For numbness in the lower legs, the Yanglingquan acupoint is suitable. If numbness affects the foot, the Taixi and Yibian acupoints are recommended.

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Written by Lv Yao

Orthopedics

42sec

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Is running good for lumbar disc herniation?

Lumbar disc herniation is due to the degeneration of the lumbar spine. It results in symptoms from the herniation pressing down on the nerve roots, or the spinal cord, through a rupture in the fibrous ring. The disc mainly serves to cushion and absorb shock in the lumbar region. During running, the load on the lumbar spine and the compression are significantly greater compared to normal walking. Running might exacerbate the condition of herniated discs. Therefore, it is not recommended to engage in running, jumping or similar activities if suffering from a disc herniation. Swimming can be a preferable form of exercise that lessens the load on the lumbar spine.

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Written by Cheng Bin

Orthopedics

55sec

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What sleeping position should be used for lumbar disc herniation?

If the patient simply presents primarily with symptoms of back pain, it is advisable to lie on the back and sleep on a firm mattress. It is best to wear a lumbar support belt to protect the lumbar spine. If the patient's lumbar disc herniation is quite severe, causing sciatic nerve pain, it is better to sleep in a lateral position during sleep. When lying on the side, actively flexing the knees and hips can reduce the traction on the sciatic nerve, thereby effectively alleviating the patient's leg pain symptoms. Additionally, for patients with disc herniation, it is necessary to avoid prolonged sitting or standing, avoid excessive bending to lift heavy objects, and avoid lifting heavy items. Actively cooperating with acupuncture, electric therapy, cupping, traction, massage, and other physical therapy methods can further improve the patient’s clinical symptoms.

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Written by Guan Jing Tao

Orthopedics

41sec

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Can lumbar disc herniation sleep on a latex mattress?

Generally speaking, for lumbar disc herniation, it is recommended to use a firm bed and avoid exposure to cold conditions, which helps alleviate symptoms and prevents further aggravation. Latex mattresses, as advertised and if of good quality, can also be used. Firstly, a quality latex mattress can conform well to the natural physiological curvature of the entire spine. This means that the latex mattress can accommodate the normal curvature of the waist without exacerbating issues, unlike overly soft mattresses which can lead to increased back pain and other symptoms. However, it is still necessary to use qualified products and assess them carefully.

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Written by Cheng Bin

Orthopedics

47sec

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What should be noted about traction for lumbar disc herniation?

The main points are reflected in the following two aspects: First, during traction, it is essential to pay attention to the force and duration of the traction. Second, it is best to undergo traction at the acupuncture and massage department of a formal hospital. Formal hospitals are more professional, have a better grasp of indications, and the effects should be more satisfactory. You must not undergo traction in outside massage parlors. Sometimes, excessive force or prolonged duration can cause lumbar spine injuries in patients. For patients with lumbar disc herniation, besides traction, combining acupuncture, massage, electrical therapy, and cupping can effectively alleviate the clinical symptoms of lumbar disc herniation.

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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.