Column Treatment Case Report No. 208｜ ILC International Lumbago Clinic (Osaka Clinic)
January 16, 2026
The patient
A male patient in his 60s.
The patient’s medical history to date
The patient has experienced low back pain for approximately three years.
He was diagnosed with lumbar disc herniation at another medical institution two years ago.
At that time, he was unable to walk; however, his condition improved with conservative follow-up.
He has experienced three recurrent episodes of disc herniation, with the interval between symptom flare-ups becoming progressively shorter.
One month ago, he twisted his back and became unable to move. Although forward-bent posture caused significant pain, symptoms gradually improved thereafter.
He was also diagnosed with degenerative spondylolisthesis at another institution.
The patient visited our clinic seeking to improve his symptoms.
Pre-treatment symptoms
Rolling over in bed: Slightly difficult
Standing up: Very difficult
Washing face: Easy
Maintaining a semi-bent posture or standing: Slightly difficult
Prolonged sitting: Easy
Lifting or holding heavy objects: Unknown
・Pain levels before treatment
| Lower back | Lower limbs | Numbness | Buttocks | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pain level | 8 | 0 | 0 | 1 |
No pain at all is rated as 0, and the maximum possible pain is rated as 10.
Main areas of pain and numbness: lower back, right buttock.
Additional explanations on our clinic’s medical examination
Imaging and findings
- Imaging studies revealed intervertebral disc degeneration, disc bulging, annular tear, and degenerative spondylolisthesis at level L4/5.
The above findings were also observed on the imaging.
Compression of the spinal canal caused by disc pathology at L4/5 was considered the most likely cause of the patient’s symptoms.
Treatment
After consulting with the patient, the Cellgel Method was performed on L4/5.
The treatment was performed by our administrative director, Dr. Kotera.
The treatment took about 20 minutes.
After resting in the recovery room, the patient was able to walk home unaided.
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
