Herniated Disc With Acupuncture

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A herniated disc, also known as a slipped, bulging or ruptured disc, happens when the soft, gel-like inner part of a spinal disc protrudes through a tear in its tougher outer layer. This can lead to irritation or compression of nearby nerves, resulting in symptoms such as pain, numbness, or weakness. While herniated discs are frequently found in the lower back, they can also affect the neck.

Approximately 4 million Australians, or 1 in 6, experience back problems, with herniated discs being a frequent cause of back pain. Lumbar disc herniation specifically affects an estimated 3-5% of the population.

Causes

It is more commonly caused by gradual wear and tear associated with aging and degeneration of the spinal discs. While age-related degeneration can make the spine more vulnerable to herniated discs, they are not exclusively an old person's disease. Herniated discs can occur at any age, including in young adults and even children, although they are more common in middle age. It can be contributed by acute injuries like falls, accidents, or improper lifting, especially in younger, more active individuals. Additionally lifestyle factors also play a significant role. The factors like prolonged sitting, poor posture, jobs that involve physically demanding, sedentary, or repetitive movements, and excess weight. 

In my clinic, I frequently see males aged 20 to 30 who work in physically demanding jobs like builders, painters, or construction workers. I also see people of any gender aged 30-50 who have sedentary occupations such as desk workers, drivers, or dentists.

Repetitive strain, a musculoskeletal disorder, results from repeated or sustained movements or awkward postures. This can contribute to herniated discs by weakening spinal discs through repeated stress and micro-tears, making them more prone to rupture. While a single traumatic event can cause a herniation, repetitive movements, poor posture, or prolonged strain can accelerate degeneration, leading to herniation over time.

Signs and Symptoms

If a herniated disc is in the lower back, pain may radiate to the buttocks and legs. If it's in the neck, pain may extend to the shoulders and upper arms. Other symptoms often include numbness or tingling sensations, as well as muscle weakness in the affected area. The pain is often sharp or burning and can worsen with movement, coughing, sneezing, or certain positions. Some individuals report an increase in pain during the morning or at night, which may be attributed to changes in spinal pressure and posture during sleep. In severe cases, a herniated disc can affect bowel or bladder control, coordination, balance, or even cause paralysis.

It's important to note that not all herniated discs cause symptoms. The severity of symptoms varies and can be intermittent or chronic. If you experience any of these symptoms, especially if severe or accompanied by loss of bladder or bowel control, it is crucial to seek prompt medical attention.

Treatment & Management

Most herniated discs improve with conservative treatment like pain medication, physical therapy, and activity modification, and spinal injections. Bed rest is generally not recommended; instead, gentle activity and exercise are encouraged. It is important to let pain guide activity levels and to avoid anything that worsens the pain.

Surgery is usually considered only in specific circumstances. These include situations where severe pain does not respond to a prolonged course of conservative treatment, when there are progressive nerve symptoms such as increasing weakness or numbness, in cases of cauda equina syndrome, or in instances of recurrent disc herniation. 

Does Acupuncture Help Herniated disc?

Acupuncture can be a valuable tool in managing sciatica caused by a herniated disc, offering pain relief, improved function, and reduced recurrence. It addresses sciatica through several mechanisms: it temporarily stops nerves from sending pain signals to the brain, which can reduce soreness in affected areas; and it triggers the release of endorphins, the body's natural painkillers, which can alleviate sciatica pain. Research indicates that a ten-day acupuncture course can be more effective than certain NSAIDs in relieving sciatica symptoms; one study showed that 90% of patients receiving acupuncture treatment experienced improvement or complete symptom resolution, compared to 73% of those taking NSAIDs. Additionally, acupuncture has been shown to raise participants' pain thresholds, making it easier to cope with sciatica pain.

In my clinic, the primary focus is on pain reduction using acupuncture and herbal medicine. Altered nerve sensations like numbness, tingling, pins and needles, or burning typically improve as overall inflammation levels decrease with regular treatments. Acupuncture is generally considered to have cumulative effects, meaning the benefits build up over time with repeated treatments. Similar to physical exercise, consistent acupuncture sessions can lead to gradual improvement. While some individuals may experience immediate relief, many require multiple sessions to achieve noticeable and lasting results.

About the Author

Youngmi Choi

Ripple Acupuncture | Newcastle | New Lambton

As an AHPRA-registered acupuncturist with 15 years of nursing experience, I offer safe, effective, and holistic care. My special interests include pain management, psycho-emotional well-being, digestive balance, and women’s health & fertility. My approach is outcome-focused, and clients receive a clear care plan with personalized lifestyle advice.

If you have any questions about your disc or sciatica conditions, please make an online booking, submit an online enquiry or call me on 0402 474 884. 

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Reference

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