Column Treatment Case Report No. 169｜ ILC International Lumbago Clinic (Osaka Clinic)
August 26, 2025
The patient
A male patient in his 70s.
The patient’s medical history to date
For approximately one year, the patient has been experiencing lower back pain during work and while playing golf.
He initially received electrotherapy at another orthopedic clinic, but calf pain subsequently emerged.
Over the past 4 months, symptoms worsened despite acupuncture sessions twice a week, prompting him to seek treatment at our clinic for symptom relief.
Symptoms before treatment
Leg symptoms have stabilized for the time being. The patient reported the following functional limitations:
Lifting or holding heavy objects: somewhat difficult
Turning over in bed: somewhat difficult
Standing up: somewhat difficult
Washing his face: easy
Maintaining a stooped or upright posture: somewhat difficult
Prolonged sitting: somewhat difficult
・Pain levels before treatment
| Lower back | Lower limbs | Numbness | Buttocks | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pain level | 5 | 3 | 3 | 3 |
Pain levels before treatment (NRS 0–10, 0 = no pain; 10 = worst imaginable):
Main symptoms localized to the left lumbar region.
Additional explanations on our clinic’s medical examination
Imaging and findings
- L1/2, L4/5 – disc degeneration and disc herniation
- L2/3, L3/4 – disc degeneration and protrusion
- L3/4 – spinal canal stenosis
Additional explanations on our clinic’s medical examination
Compression of the spinal canal at L1/2, L2/3, L3/4, and L4/5 due to disc pathology is highly likely to be the cause of the symptoms.
Treatment
After consultation with the patient, the Cellgel Method was performed on discs L1/2, L2/3, L3/4, and L4/5.
The treatment was performed by our administrative director, Dr. Kotera.
The treatment took about 35 minutes.
Following rest in the recovery room, the patient was able to walk home unaided.
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
