Column Treatment Case Report No. 216｜ ILC International Lumbago Clinic (Osaka Clinic)
February 13, 2026
The patient
A male patient in his 50s.
The patient’s medical history to date
During his younger years, he was an active track and field athlete, an era during which he first injured his back. He also has a history of multiple episodes of acute back strain.
Three months ago, he began experiencing intense pain and numbness radiating from his lower back down to his right leg. Symptoms worsened whenever he leaned forward.
He received treatment at an osteopathic clinic for 2 months but symptoms progressively worsened.
At another orthopedic clinic, he was prescribed medication and advised observation.
Pain is temporarily relieved with medication, but recurs as the medication wears off.
The patient visited our clinic seeking to improve his symptoms.
Pre-treatment symptoms
Turning in bed: Easy
Standing up: Easy
Washing face: Easy
Maintaining forward-bent posture / standing: Easy
Prolonged sitting: Easy
Lifting/carrying heavy objects: Easy
・Pain levels before treatment
| Lower back | Lower limbs | Numbness | Buttocks | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pain level | 7 | 9 | 9 | 8 |
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 on the right side, lower limbs.
Bending forward: no change
Bending backward: no change
Lasegue test: negative
Point of tenderness: none
Coughing and sneezing: unknown
Additional explanations on our clinic’s medical examination
Imaging and findings
- L4/5, L5/S1: Disc degeneration and bulging
The above findings were also observed on the imaging.
Compression of the spinal canal due to disc pathology at L4/5 and L5/S1 is highly likely the cause of symptoms.
Treatment
After consulting with the patient, the Cellgel Method was performed on L4/5 and 5/s.
The treatment was performed by Dr. Ohara.
The treatment took about 30 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
