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.