Intervertebral disc protrusion is a common lumbar disease. Patients with this condition often experience lower back and leg pain. Massage therapy has a certain therapeutic effect on intervertebral disc protrusion. Below, we will look at the massage and exercise methods for intervertebral disc protrusion.
In addition to oral Chinese medicine, topical patches, and acupuncture for the treatment of intervertebral disc herniation, there is a more effective method, which is massage therapy. As we all know, massage therapy is economical, safe, convenient, simple, and has significant effects. It is widely used, especially in the treatment of various types of pain.
Treatment of intervertebral disc herniation with massage therapy
1. Pressure method
Patients with intervertebral disc herniation can use the pressure method for treatment. The method is as follows: Cross the hands, with the right hand on top and the left hand on the bottom. Starting from the first thoracic vertebra, press down along the governor vessel to the lumbosacral region. Apply slight pressure with the left hand towards the foot side during pressing, and repeat 3 times. Then use the thumb to press on the Yaoyangguan, Mingmen, Shenyu, Zhishi, Juliao, Huantiao, Chengfu, and Weizhong acupuncture points.
2. Rubbing method
Use the rubbing method to treat intervertebral disc herniation. The method is to use both thumbs and palms to rub the spine along the bilateral bladder meridian line from the shoulders downwards. After rubbing the Chengfu acupuncture point, switch to kneading. Repeat 3 times, down to the Yinmen and Weizhong acupuncture points.
3. Shaking method
When using this method to treat intervertebral disc herniation, the patient should lie prone, with both hands holding the head of the bed. The therapist stands on the side of the patient's feet, holding the patient's ankles with both hands, and performs up and down shaking. The left palm rubs and presses the lower back, repeating 2-3 times.
4. Rolling method
The patient lies supine, with both hips and knees flexed, bringing the knees as close to the abdomen as possible. The therapist supports both knees with one hand and holds both ankles with the other hand, rotating and rolling the lower back. The therapist pulls the lower limbs forcefully to straighten them. After massage therapy, the patient usually feels comfortable and relaxed, with reduced symptoms.
5. Inclined board method
In this method, the patient lies on the side, with the lower limb on the side of the bed straightened, and the other lower limb flexed on the upper part of the opposite lower leg. The therapist stands behind the patient, with one hand supporting the patient's iliac bone posterior edge, and the other hand supporting the patient's shoulder front. At the same time, pull the shoulder backward and push the iliac bone forward, causing the waist to twist. Sometimes, a "click" sound can be heard or felt.
It should be noted that when using massage therapy to treat intervertebral disc herniation, attention must be paid to the technique and strength. Excessive or insufficient force will not be effective for the treatment of the disease or may harm the patient. Therefore, it is important to find the right "balance". In addition, bed rest is recommended before and after the massage therapy, with a duration of two weeks after the massage.
Exercise methods for intervertebral disc protrusion
1. Supine position, alternate lifting of both legs while keeping them straight, with gentle and slightly faster movements, avoiding pain. Repeat 8-10 times.
2. Supine position, knees flexed, thighs against the abdomen, hands holding the knees, back against the bed, relaxing the waist and lower back muscles, then separate the hands, straighten the legs, and repeat 3-5 times.
3. Sit-ups in supine position. If the sit-up motion is difficult, hands can be used to assist by holding onto the bed. After sitting up, do not lean forward. Repeat 3-5 times. This is one of the exercise methods for intervertebral disc herniation.
In addition, it is important to maintain a balance between work and rest in daily life, maintain a correct posture, avoid prolonged sitting or standing, and warm up before engaging in strenuous physical activities. Pay attention to a balanced diet, with a high protein and vitamin content, low fat and cholesterol content, to prevent obesity. Quit smoking and control alcohol consumption.
