Column Treatment Case Report No. 163｜ ILC International Lumbago Clinic (Osaka Clinic)
August 5, 2025
The patient
A male patient in his 70s.
The patient’s medical history to date
The patient had been suffering from low back pain for some time.
About a year ago, pain and numbness began in both lower limbs.
2 months ago, another hospital suggested it might be disc herniation or spinal stenosis.
Pain typically begins in the morning and it becomes difficult to walk by midday.
Currently, the patient is unable to walk even one bus stop, and cannot walk during work without breaks.
The patient visited our clinic seeking to improve his symptoms.
Symptoms before treatment
Symptoms are predominantly on the left side
Turning over in bed: no problem
Standing up: somewhat difficult
Washing one’s face: no problem
Maintaining a bent-over posture or standing position: somewhat difficult
Prolonged sitting: very difficult
Lifting or carrying heavy objects: very difficult
・Pain levels before treatment
| Lower back | Lower limbs | Numbness | Buttocks | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pain level | 7 | 7 | 8 | 2 |
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: no change
Bending backward: limited due to pain
Lasegue test: negative
Point of tenderness: none
Coughing and sneezing: no aggravation, but may cause a slight discomfort when symptoms are severe
Additional explanations on our clinic’s medical examination
Imaging and findings
- L1/2, 2/3 – disc degeneration, protrusion
- L3/4, 4/5 – disc degeneration, disc herniation, spinal stenosis
The above findings were also observed on the imaging.
Findings show that spinal stenosis on discs L3/4 and 4/5 is the probable cause of the symptoms.
Findings show that compression of the spinal canal on intervertebral disc findings L1/2 and L2/3 may also be a probable cause of the symptoms.
Treatment
After consulting with the patient, the Cellgel Method was performed on L3/4 and 4/5.
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 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
