How to Treat Lumbar Degenerative Changes?
Lumbar degenerative disease is a condition characterized by the natural aging of lumbar spine structures. It mainly manifests as low back pain and leg pain. The treatment options include general therapy, pharmacological therapy, and surgical intervention to alleviate symptoms.
1. General Therapy: If the disease does not cause significant symptoms, special treatment is generally not required. It is important to maintain correct standing and sitting postures, avoid bending to pick up heavy objects or frequently engaging in lumbar flexion and extension activities. Exercises such as the five-point support and little swallow flying can be performed to strengthen back muscles. If there is low back pain, bed rest is recommended, and moderate traction may also be applied.
2. Pharmacological Therapy: For severe pain, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as Ibuprofen Sustained Release Capsules and Meloxicam Tablets can be used as prescribed by a doctor. If there is significant tenderness in the lumbar area, Lidocaine Hydrochloride Injection and Procaine Hydrochloride Injection can be administered under a doctor's guidance.
3. Surgical Intervention: For patients with lumbar disc herniation without lumbar instability, conservative treatment may be ineffective. Consider surgical options such as lumbar discectomy, including percutaneous endoscopic lumbar discectomy and microendoscopic lumbar discectomy, to relieve symptoms. In cases of severe lower limb pain, decreased muscle strength in the lower limbs, or intermittent claudication that have not improved after a period of conservative treatment and impact daily life, consider lumbar decompression through a fenestrated window, or techniques such as intervertebral disc or intervertebral foraminotomy. During treatment, it is advisable to avoid heavy physical activities, wear a lumbar support if necessary, to reduce the risk of lumbar strain and injury, and regularly monitor and observe changes in the condition.
