Column Treatment Case Report No. 15｜ ILC International Lumbago Clinic (Nagoya Clinic)
November 27, 2025
The patient
A female patient in her 50s.
The patient’s medical history to date
The patient has experienced lower back symptoms since her 20s.
About seven years ago, her condition worsened during jogging.
This month, the pain became severe and intolerable, which led her to visit our clinic.
Pre-treatment symptoms
・Pain levels before treatment
| Lower back | Lower limbs | Numbness | Buttocks | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pain level | 8 | 0 | 5 | 0 |
No pain at all is rated as 0, and the maximum possible pain is rated as 10.
Primary pain region: Right lower back, right buttock
Bending forward: no aggravation
Bending backward: no aggravation
Lasegue test: Negative
Point of tenderness: L5/S
Intermittent claudication: negative.
Additional explanations on our clinic’s medical examination
・Daily activities
Previously active in running
Works at a desk for prolonged periods
Imaging and findings
L1/2: Normal
L2/3: Normal
L3/4: Normal
L4/5: Disc degeneration, bulging, annular tear
L5/S: Disc degeneration, bulging, annular tear
The above findings were also observed on the imaging.
Disc degeneration and annulus fibrosus tears found at L4/5 and L5/S are highly likely the cause of the primary symptoms.
Treatment
The Cellgel Method was performed on the two affected levels: L4/5 and L5/S, following consultation with the patient.
The procedure was performed by Dr. Ban.
The image above shows the discs after the Discogel injection.
The treatment was completed in approximately 30 minutes.
After a short rest in the recovery room, the patient walked home without assistance.
Our clinic’s treatment method
Additional information about the Cellgel method we have introduced in this column.
Cost of the Cellgel method: 1,320,000 yen per area (including tax) to 1,760,000 yen per 5 areas (including tax)
Risks and side effects of the Cellgel method: Transient pain may occur after treatment. Nerve damage is not a zero possibility due to the very nature of the treatment, but there have been no reports of damage so far in either report cases or publications. There is a very small possibility of allergic reactions to local anesthetics. Symptoms may temporarily worsen during the first week or two after treatment. This is believed to be due to the decompression effect of the implant, which retracts the surrounding tissues. In addition, if the disc is almost completely collapsed, treatment may be difficult. The doctor hold a consultation with you during your visit to the clinic to determine the best treatment option for your condition.
For more detailed information, please refer to the following links:
Blog page explaining the Cellgel Method in an easy-to-understand manner
The Cellgel Method on our treatment methods page
This article was written by the Administrative Director of our clinic
