Is moxibustion effective for lumbar disc herniation?

Generally, lumbar disc herniation usually refers to lumbar disc herniation syndrome. Whether moxibustion is effective in treating lumbar disc herniation depends on the severity of the condition. If it is a mild case of lumbar disc herniation, moxibustion is usually effective; however, if the condition is severe, the effectiveness of moxibustion treatment is relatively limited. A detailed analysis is as follows:

If the lumbar disc herniation is mild, moxibustion treatment is generally effective. Moxibustion has effects of promoting blood circulation to remove blood stasis, unblocking meridians, warming meridians to dispel cold, and relieving pain by regulating qi. By applying moxibustion to acupoints in the lower back area, such as Mingmen (GV4), Yaoyangguan (GV3), and Dachangshu (BL25), it can promote blood circulation in the lower back, accelerate metabolism, relieve tension and spasm of the lower back muscles, reduce inflammatory reactions, and thus alleviate pain symptoms. In addition, moxibustion can help restore the elasticity and function of the back muscles, providing protection and enhancing stability for the lumbar spine.

If lumbar disc herniation is severe and presents with significant nerve compression symptoms, such as numbness in the lower limbs, leg pain, or urinary and fecal incontinence, simple use of moxibustion cannot achieve therapeutic effects. This is because moxibustion can only promote blood circulation and unblock meridians but cannot directly relieve nerve compression symptoms. In such cases, moxibustion can be used as an adjunctive therapy combined with bed rest, physical therapy, and medication. Surgery may be required in these cases.

Moxibustion treatment should be performed by a qualified physician to ensure safety and effectiveness. Patients should avoid self-treatment to prevent adverse outcomes such as burns or blisters.