Lumbar Disc Herniation and Its Impact on Daily Life

Lumbar disc herniation can significantly impact a patient's daily life, causing both physical and psychological discomfort. Prompt and targeted treatment is essential, as prescribed by a healthcare provider. Regular rest, avoidance of soft beds, and the development of healthy lifestyle habits are crucial. Frequent hot compresses on the waist can promote blood circulation and alleviate discomfort. Additionally, maintaining correct sitting posture is essential for lumbar disc herniation patients.

Correct Sitting Posture for Lumbar Disc Herniation

Patients with lumbar disc herniation should adhere to the following guidelines for proper sitting posture: Avoid sitting on low stools or soft sofas, as they can be particularly harmful to the lumbar spine. It is advisable to use chairs with backs to provide support for the entire spine, especially the neck and waist. Incorrect posture can lead to muscle fatigue in the waist. The correct sitting posture should involve keeping the upper body upright, chin slightly tucked in, and legs together to maintain a relatively relaxed state in the waist and reduce the risk of strain.

When sitting in a chair with a backrest, it is recommended to lean the back against the chair as much as possible to reduce fatigue in the muscles of the lower back. Additionally, prolonged sitting should be avoided.

What is Lumbar Disc Herniation?

Lumbar disc herniation is a common condition that occurs when the various components of the lumbar intervertebral disc (nucleus pulposus, annulus fibrosus, and cartilaginous endplate) undergo degenerative changes, especially in the nucleus pulposus. Under external forces, the annulus fibrosus may rupture, allowing the nucleus pulposus to protrude or extrude posteriorly or into the spinal canal. This can lead to irritation or compression of adjacent spinal nerve roots, resulting in symptoms such as low back pain, numbness, and pain in one or both lower limbs.

Lumbar disc herniation is most commonly seen at the L4-5 and L5-S1 levels, accounting for approximately 95% of cases.

Daily Care for Lumbar Disc Herniation Patients

For patients with lumbar disc herniation, proper care and management are essential. Here are some key points:

1. Wearing a lumbar support belt can help restrict movement and protect the injured lumbar discs, allowing them to rest. It is also important to keep the waist warm and avoid exposure to cold or dampness, which can exacerbate symptoms.

2. The choice of sleeping mats is crucial. Soft mattresses can affect the physiological curve of the lumbar spine and lead to uneven pressure distribution on the discs. Therefore, it is recommended to use firm mattresses or wooden boards for better support.

3. During the treatment period, patients should engage in light exercise to strengthen their bodies. It is important to choose appropriate exercises and workloads based on individual conditions and to arrange the exercise content reasonably.