Column Balancing Work and Disc Herniation: Key Points for Adjusting Your Work Style
September 19, 2025
Disc herniation is a common spinal condition. When it occurs, symptoms like pain and numbness appear, and as it progresses, it may increasingly interfere with daily life.
Some people are concerned about whether they can continue working after being diagnosed with disc herniation.
Balancing work and disc herniation is possible, but it is crucial to take measures that are appropriate for your symptoms.
What is disc herniation?
The intervertebral discs are located between the vertebrae. Each disc consists of a gelatinous nucleus pulposus at its center, surrounded by an annulus fibrosus rich in collagen.
When a crack develops in the annulus fibrosus and the nucleus pulposus protrudes outward, this is referred to as disc herniation.
Symptoms of disc herniation
The primary symptoms of lumbar disc herniation include lower back pain, along with pain and numbness in the buttocks and legs. Pain and numbness can occur anywhere in the lower body, but pain from the buttocks to the back of the thigh, known as sciatica, is a typical symptom of lumbar disc hernia.
When the spine curves sideways or mobility becomes limited, pain can worsen when lifting heavy objects. Symptoms may appear suddenly or gradually over time.
In severe cases where the nerves are strongly compressed, patients may also experience urinary or bowel difficulties such as retention or incontinence.
Balancing Lumbar Disc Herniation and Work: Desk Work
When working at a desk for long periods, it is crucial to reduce strain on your back and maintain comfort.
◎ Maintain Proper Sitting Posture
To avoid aggravating the pain from a disc herniation, maintaining correct posture is essential.
While ideal posture can vary based on height and body build, here are the basic recommendations:
・Adjust chair height so both feet rest flat on the floor when sitting back fully.
・Keep knees and hips at about a 90-degree angle.
・Position the computer monitor slightly below eye level.
・If using a laptop, elevate the screen with a stand and angle the keyboard for easier use.
◎ Reset Your Posture Regularly
During long work sessions, stand up and move around every 1–2 hours. Gentle back stretches are also recommended.
◎ Relax After Work with a Warm Bath
Soaking in a warm bath after work improves circulation and relieves tension. Combining bathing with post-bath stretching enhances recovery and helps prevent chronic pain.
Balancing Lumbar Disc Herniation and Work: Physical Labor
Physically demanding work tend to place greater stress on the spine. For individuals with disc herniation, continuing such work depends on the severity of symptoms and medical advice received.
◎ Consult a Specialist First
An accurate diagnosis is the first step. With proper treatment and medical guidance, many patients can continue working while managing their condition.
◎Undergo Rehabilitation
Rehabilitation helps maintain muscle strength and joint flexibility, preventing symptom from worsening and reducing the risk of recurrence.
◎ Adjust Work Duties
Tasks that involve heavy lifting, prolonged forward bending, or high vibration exposure should be avoided. Discuss adjustments or reassignment with your employer.
When discussing this with your workplace, having a doctor’s diagnosis or a medical opinion letter detailing work restrictions can make the conversation easier. That is why you should get examined by a doctor first.
When discussing with your direct supervisor or HR, clearly communicate specific requests regarding reassignment or workplace environment improvements.
If changes are not possible, consider discussing the option of medical leave.
Our Clinic’s Treatment: The Cellgel Procedure
At our clinic, we offer the Cellgel Procedure, a minimally invasive treatment for lumbar disc herniation.
This procedure involves injecting a biocompatible material into cracks in the damaged disc. The material solidifies into a gel, reinforcing and preserving the disc structure. Unlike conventional treatments, disc volume is maintained, and the gel remains as an implant within the disc, supporting long-term stability.
If you have been diagnosed with a herniated disc or suffer from lower back pain, please consider scheduling a consultation at our clinic.
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