Column Treatment Case Report No. 149｜ ILC International Lumbago Clinic (Osaka Clinic)
June 21, 2025
The patient
A female patient in her 60s.
The patient’s medical history to date
About 7 years ago, the patient’s back pain became worse due to a change in her work that involved more desk work.
4 years ago, she became unable to move upon waking up and was hospitalized for two weeks after being diagnosed with disc herniation.
The pain in itself improved with block injections, but she still has some symptoms remaining in her left hip joint.
Symptoms suddenly intensified 10 days ago.
The patient visited our clinic seeking to improve his symptoms.
Symptoms before treatment
Turning over in bed: no problem
Standing up: no problem
Washing one’s face: no problem
Prolonged standing and semi-crouched posture: somewhat difficult
Prolonged sitting: no problem
Lifting and carrying heavy objects: somewhat difficult
・Pain level before treatment
| Lower back | Lower limbs | Numbness | Buttocks | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pain level | 7 | 5 | 0 | 0 |
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 left side to lower limbs.
Bending forward: increased pain
Bending backward: no problem
Lasegue test: no problem
Lumbar point of tenderness: L3/4 on the right side with a sensation of aggravation in the right buttock (usual the pain is centered in the left hip and buttock)
Coughing and sneezing: no aggravation
Additional explanations on our clinic’s medical examination
Imaging and findings
- L3/4, 5/s – disc degeneration, protrusion
- L4/5 – disc degeneration, disc herniation
The above findings were also observed on the imaging.
Findings show that the compression of the spinal canal on disc L4/5 is the most probable cause of the symptoms.
Findings show that the compression of the spinal canal on discs L3/4 and 5/s may also be a probable cause of the symptoms.
Treatment
After consultation with the patient, the Cellgel procedure was performed on disc L4/5.
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 by herself.
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
