Column Treatment Case Report No. 138｜ ILC International Lumbago Clinic (Osaka Clinic)
November 24, 2025
The patient
A male patient in his 40s.
The patient’s medical history to date
The patient has been playing sports for a long time and had recurring back pain as a result.
30 years ago, he had surgery for discs L4 and right L5 on the left and right sides, respectively.
2 years ago, he felt discomfort while running and eventually developed right buttock pain when lifting a bike.
Symptoms aggravated to the point that he could barely stand up.
One year ago, he visited a different hospital and was diagnosed with osteoarthritis of the lumbar spine on L4/5 and disc herniation. He received intravertebral disc treatment for it.
Although his pain has decreased compared to when it peaked, his symptoms have aggravated again.
The medical facility that treated him suggested long-term follow-up, but he decided to come to our clinic to seek an alternative treatment instead.
Symptoms before treatment
Buttock pain when in sitting position.
Numbness in the right lower limb.
Turning over in bed: no problem
Standing up: no problem
Washing one’s face: somewhat difficult
Prolonged semi-crouched position and standing: somewhat difficult
Prolonged sitting: very difficult
Lifting and carrying heavy objects: extremely difficult
・Pain levels before treatment
| Lower back | Lower limbs | Numbness | Buttocks | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pain level | 3 | 4 | 2 | 4 |
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, lower limbs.
Bending forward: limited range of motion due to pain
Bending backward: limited range of motion due to pain
Lasegue test: negative
Point of tenderness: none
Coughing & sneezing: aggravation
Additional explanations on our clinic’s medical examination
Imaging and findings
- L3/4, 4/5, 5/s – disc degeneration, protrusion
The above findings were also observed on the imaging.
Findings show that the compression of the spinal canal on discs L3/4, 4/5, and 5/s is the probable cause of the patient’s symptoms.
Treatment
After consulting with the patient, the Cellgel Method was performed on L3/4, 4/5 and 5/s.
The treatment was performed by Dr. Ohara.
The treatment took about 35 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
