Column Treatment case No.12 / ILC International Low Back Pain Clinic (Osaka) Column
May 9, 2024
The patient
A male patient in his 60s
The patient’s medical history to date
For about 15 years, he sometimes was unable to move as he wanted due to back pain.
When he visited an orthopedic surgeon two years ago, he was told that he was developing spinal stenosis.
About a week ago, he once again developed back pain.
He came to our clinic to seek improvement of his symptoms.
Symptoms prior to treatment
The pain is mainly in the lower back, but sometimes the right lower leg also becomes numb.
Until one day prior to visiting the hospital, it was difficult for him to even sit down.
It was also difficult for him to lean forward when washing his face, and so on.
・Pain levels before treatment
| Lower back | Lower limbs | Numbness | Buttocks | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pain level | 5 | 5 | 1 | 0 |
Pain is rated on a scale of 0 (no pain at all) to 10 (maximum possible pain).
Main area of pain: lower back
Forward bending: Almost impossible due to pain in the right lower back
Backward bending: Slight pain in the right lower back
Lasegue test: positive at 70 degrees to the left and right
Pressure point: Right L4/5
Coughing and sneezing: painful
Additional explanation about our medical examination
・Daily activities
Although he can maintain a standing or half-sitting posture,
it is difficult for him to stand up or sit for long periods of time.
He can walk continuously for 5 minutes only.
Images and findings
- L2/3, 3/4, 4/5, 5/s – Protrusion was observed in L2/3, 3/4, 4/5, 5/s
- Narrowing of the right intervertebral foramen was observed in L5/s
L4/5 shows a disc protrusion predominantly on the right side, and L4/5 and 5/s are likely to be the cause of the main symptoms.
L2/3 and 3/4 also show disc protrusion, but it was determined that this was not related to the main symptoms, which are predominantly on the right side.
Treatment
After consulting with the patient, the Cellgel method was performed on L4/5 and 5/s.
The treatment was performed by Dr. Maruyama.
The treatment took about 40 minutes.
After resting in the recovery room, the patient was able to walk home by himself.
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
