Acupuncture in the Treatment of Sequestered Intervertebral Disk Herniation

Objective: Most patients with sequestered intervertebral disk herniation (IVDH) are subjected to neurosurgery. This study was designed to demonstrate that acupuncture can be an effective treatment modality for patients with herniated disks unless the disease is complicated. Materials and Methods: Three patients with IVDH received 2-3 courses of acupuncture treatment (12 sessions each) combined with pharmacopuncture with chondroprotector. Visual analogue scale (VAS) for pain and magnetic resonance imaging findings were used to test the effectiveness of the treatment. Results: Decrease in pain severity has been observed from 7-8 points to 3-4 points in VAS after the first course of treatment. Complete resorption of hernia sequesters in 4-5 months after the treatment has been started. Conclusions: Acupuncture is an effective alternative for patients with IVDH unless surgery is indicated. Acupuncture treatment results in resorption of hernia sequester and improves pain syndrome.