13. Bi Wenli

13. Bi Wenli

I would like to ask: For lumbar disc herniation (not caused by trauma) compressing the nerve root of the right leg, resulting in numbness and distending pain initially confined to the buttocks and now radiating down to the calf (symptoms began in late February), what is the best treatment? Many doctors say the disc cannot be reset and that minimally invasive surgery is required. Is this true? I am very afraid of postoperative sequelae, and I am only 35 years old.

A: This is sciatica caused by vertebral protrusion. Do not rush into surgery. Based on my experience, the effectiveness of surgery is mostly unsatisfactory. Nowadays, doctors tend to recommend surgery too readily, causing patients hesitation and anxiety. First, drug therapy and physical therapy should be tried, such as acupuncture and massage, which can provide some relief.

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