How long does acupuncture and moxibustion have effect on prolapse of intervertebral disc

Acupuncture and moxibustion treatment of intervertebral disc herniation generally requires 10-20 times to get results, and the actual effect is affected by factors such as the degree of herniation, individual differences, acupuncture and moxibustion programs, cooperative treatment, and living habits.

1. Degree of protrusion

After receiving acupuncture and moxibustion, patients with mild intervertebral disc herniation can usually relieve pain symptoms for 1-2 weeks. When the fibrous ring is not broken, acupuncture and moxibustion can improve the local blood circulation, reduce the compression of nerve root, and the effect appears quickly. If it has developed into nucleus pulposus prolapse, the treatment period needs to be extended to 4-6 weeks, and some severe cases require comprehensive intervention with other traditional Chinese medicine therapies.

2. Individual Differences

Young patients have a higher sensitivity to acupuncture stimulation due to their active metabolism, and their response time is often faster than that of elderly patients. For those with a constitution of Yang deficiency, moxibustion has a better effect. For those with a damp heat constitution, it is necessary to first clear heat and remove dampness before acupuncture. For patients with a history of lumbar muscle strain, it is necessary to simultaneously address muscle adhesion issues in order to demonstrate therapeutic effects.

3. acupuncture and moxibustion Scheme

The traditional body acupuncture uses Shenshu, Dachangshu and other back shu points in combination with Huantiao, Weizhong and far end points, and the effect is stable once every other day. Floating needle therapy can relieve acute pain quickly, and 3-5 times can improve limited mobility. The amount of electroacupuncture stimulation should be adjusted according to the course of the disease, and low-frequency continuous stimulation is suitable for chronic patients.

4. Combined treatment

acupuncture and moxibustion and traction treatment at the same time can enlarge the intervertebral space and make the protrusion return more obvious. Traditional Chinese medicine fumigation can relax the muscles in the waist and enhance the sensation of needling. The analgesic effect of acupuncture and moxibustion can be improved after massage is used to relieve the adhesion of the fascia on the back and waist.

5. Lifestyle Habits

During treatment, avoid prolonged sitting, bending over to carry heavy objects, and use a hard bed to rest can reduce intervertebral disc pressure. Pay attention to keeping your waist warm in winter, as exposure to cold can cause muscle spasms and affect the effectiveness of treatment. Proper exercise of the back muscles of the flying swallow type can consolidate the therapeutic effect of acupuncture and moxibustion.

During the acupuncture and moxibustion treatment for patients with herniated intervertebral disc, it is recommended to sleep on a hard bed to maintain the physiological curvature of the spine and avoid lifting heavy objects and severe twisting. Waist protectors can be worn daily to provide support, but should not be worn for more than 4 hours per day to prevent muscle atrophy. Diet should be supplemented with foods rich in collagen, such as beef tendon soup and pig trotters, which can help repair the fibrous ring. Cooperate with movements such as shaking the head and tail to reduce heart fire in the Eight Section Brocade for functional exercise, but prohibit any waist rotation during the acute phase. In case of increased numbness of lower limbs or dysfunction of urination and defecation, acupuncture and moxibustion should be stopped immediately and treatment should be given.