What should I do about leg numbness caused by a herniated disc?

Jun 21, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

My uncle's thigh has become numb, accompanied by lumbar disc herniation. What should be done about leg numbness caused by a herniated disc?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Xu Shuai
When leg numbness is caused by a herniated disc, the following measures can be taken for treatment and relief: 1. Medication: - Use non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen sustained-release capsules or diclofenac sodium sustained-release tablets, to reduce inflammation and relieve pain. - Supplement with neurotrophic agents, such as mecobalamin tablets or glutathione tablets, to improve symptoms of leg numbness. 2. Physical therapy: - Under medical guidance, treatments such as extracorporeal shockwave therapy or high-energy laser therapy may be performed to alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life. - For mild herniation causing occasional leg numbness, additional physical therapies and supportive treatments—such as heat application and massage—can be combined to help relieve symptoms. 3. Surgical treatment: - If the condition is severe—for example, if leg numbness is intense or accompanied by muscle atrophy—and conservative treatments are ineffective, surgical intervention should be considered. Procedures such as laminectomy with discectomy can relieve nerve compression and alleviate symptoms. The above measures should be selected and implemented based on the patient's specific condition and the doctor's recommendations.