"Can Muscle Adhesion Occur with Lumbar Disc Herniation?"
Lumbar disc herniation combined with muscle adhesion may lead to low back pain, stiffness, and limited mobility. Early identification of the cause and targeted treatment, including physical therapy to relieve adhesion, pharmacological intervention, and appropriate functional exercises, are crucial.
1. Cause Analysis
Lumbar disc herniation and muscle adhesion often coexist, primarily due to:
(1) Physiological Damage of Lumbar Disc Herniation
Lumbar disc herniation occurs when the nucleus pulposus compresses surrounding nerves or soft tissues, potentially triggering an inflammatory response. This inflammation can spread to adjacent muscle tissues, inducing myofascial adhesion, resulting in reduced local flexibility, pain, and stiffness.(2) External Environment or Sports Trauma
Prolonged sitting, poor posture, excessive force, or acute trauma may cause excessive stretching of the lumbar region or related muscle groups, leading to fibrosis and adhesion formation, especially in individuals already suffering from lumbar disc herniation.(3) Lack of Restorative Exercise
Postoperative rehabilitation patients or those with lumbar spine conditions may experience muscle fiber atrophy due to fear of movement and protective reduction in exercise, leading to muscle adhesion over time, further increasing stiffness and pain.
2. Treatment Methods
Interventions for lumbar disc herniation combined with muscle adhesion include physical therapy, pharmacological treatment, and appropriate functional exercises.
(1) Physical Therapy
Physical therapy is the preferred choice for relieving muscle adhesion. Manual lysis: Professional rehabilitation techniques are used to lyse adhered muscle groups and relieve local tension. Hot packs and ultrasound therapy: These can promote local blood circulation and improve adhesion symptoms. Traction therapy: For patients with lumbar disc herniation, moderate traction helps relieve spinal pressure.(2) Pharmacological Intervention
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen and celecoxib can relieve inflammation and pain. Local injections: Severe adhesions can be treated with local injections of glucocorticoids to reduce fibrosis. Neurotrophic drugs: Such as mecobalamin, which help alleviate nerve compression symptoms.(3) Appropriate Functional Exercises
Core muscle strengthening exercises, like plank, enhance lumbar-back muscle stability. Lumbar stretching exercises, such as cat-cow stretch, help relax lumbar muscles and reduce the impact of adhesion. Low-impact aerobic exercises, like walking and swimming, promote blood circulation and gradually improve muscle flexibility.
Lumbar disc herniation combined with muscle adhesion is a complex multifactorial issue that can be managed through comprehensive treatment to alleviate symptoms and improve functionality. If symptoms persist or worsen, medical attention should be sought promptly for personalized treatment plans. During recovery, avoid prolonged sitting and heavy lifting, and adhere to scientific exercise to prevent recurrence.
