Is It Just a Backache? It Might Be a Herniated Disc Pressing on Your Nerve

Healing Herniated Discs Naturally: Acupuncture, Herbal Medicine, and Spinal Wisdom

By Dr. Phumlarp Caulo| Caulo Care Acupuncture, Forest Hill, New York| June 24, 2025

“A single shift in the spinal structure can cause a lifetime of discomfort — unless we learn to understand the body from its roots, both East and West.”

🧠 What Is a Herniated Disc?

A herniated disc, also known as a slipped or ruptured disc, is a condition in which the soft, gel-like center of a spinal disc (nucleus pulposus) pushes out through a tear or weakness in the outer layer (annulus fibrosus). This protrusion can compress nearby spinal nerves, leading to pain, numbness, or weakness, especially in the neck, lower back, arms, or legs.

🩺 Anatomy & Physiology (A&P) of the Intervertebral Disc

Each intervertebral disc is a fibrocartilaginous cushion between adjacent vertebrae in the spinal column. It has two primary components:

1. Nucleus Pulposus

• Gelatinous, highly hydrated core

• Functions as a shock absorber

• Composed mainly of water, proteoglycans, and collagen

2. Annulus Fibrosus

• Tough, fibrous outer ring

• Composed of concentric layers of collagen fibers

• Maintains disc integrity and resists excessive movement

When the annulus becomes weakened or torn, the nucleus can protrude outward, potentially compressing nerves or the spinal cord.

🧬 What Causes a Disc to Herniate or Degenerate?

1. Age-related degeneration (Disc Dehydration)

• Loss of water content in the nucleus pulposus

• Reduced elasticity and height of the disc

2. Repetitive stress or improper posture

• Chronic sitting, heavy lifting, or poor biomechanics

3. Trauma or sudden strain

• Sudden injury or twist of the spine

4. Genetic predisposition

5. Smoking and poor nutrition

• Impaired blood flow and disc repair capacity

⚠️ Symptoms of a Herniated Disc

• Sharp or radiating pain (neck, back, legs — depending on location)

• Numbness or tingling (commonly down the arm or leg)

• Muscle weakness

• Pain that worsens with movement, coughing, or prolonged sitting

🩻 Western Medical Approach to Diagnosis & Treatment

🔎 Diagnosis:

• An MRI or CT scan to visualize disc herniation

• Neurological exam: reflexes, strength, sensation

🧪 Conservative Treatments:

1. Physical Therapy

   
   

   – Stretching, strengthening, and postural correction

2. Medications

   
   

   – NSAIDs, muscle relaxants, or corticosteroids

3. Epidural Steroid Injections

   
   

   – Reduce inflammation and nerve irritation

4. Activity Modification

   
   

   – Avoid aggravating movements; support spinal alignment

🛠️ Surgical Intervention (when needed):

• Microdiscectomy: Removing part of the disc pressing on the nerve

• Spinal Fusion: In severe or unstable cases

🌿 Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Perspective

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, a herniated disc is not merely a structural issue, but a reflection of internal organ disharmony and stagnant energy flow.

🔥 Key Patterns in TCM:

1. Kidney Deficiency (腎虛):

   • Kidneys govern bones and marrow

   • Weak kidneys = weakened spine and discs

2. Liver Blood Deficiency (肝血虧虛):

   • The liver nourishes tendons and ligaments

   • Deficiency leads to poor flexibility and support

3. Qi and Blood Stagnation (氣滯血瘀):

   • Stagnation causes pain and restricted movement

🪡 TCM Treatments:

1. Acupuncture

   • Releases muscle tension, reduces inflammation, and stimulates circulation

   • Common points: BL23 (Kidney), GB30 (sciatic pain), DU3 (lumbar support)

2. Herbal Medicine

   • Du Zhong (Eucommia Bark): Strengthens bones and tendons

   • Xu Duan: Reconnects tendons and invigorates the Kidney

   • Yan Hu Suo: Pain relief through promoting blood circulation

3. Cupping / Tui Na (Medical massage)

   • Improves circulation, relaxes muscles, and reduces compression

4. Qi Gong & Tai Chi

   • Improves spinal flexibility and strengthens the body without strain

🧘‍♂️ Holistic Recommendations for Prevention & Recovery

• Maintain a healthy weight and hydration

• Avoid prolonged sitting and slouching

• Engage in core strengthening exercises

• Get regular TCM assessments for early signs of imbalance

• Combine Western diagnostics with Eastern preventative strategies

🧾 Final Thoughts from Dr. Phumlarp Caulo

“The spine is not merely a structure — it is the pillar of communication between brain and body. When the disc herniates, we must not only decompress the nerve but also restore the root energy that sustains the body’s framework. True healing comes from integration.”

Dr. Phumlarp Caulo LAc,MsAc,OM,DAHM,Pre-RN

Integrative Medicine Practitioner, bridging Eastern and Western Wisdom.

“Rooted in ancient wisdom, guided by modern science

On this page, we look back at history so you can move forward with health.

I believe in Mother of the Earth, the timeless healer of body and soul.”

This information is only educational and should not be construed as medical advice.

Everything must be balanced, and the suggestions may not apply to you.

A specialist doctor should be consulted for any medical advice or diagnosis.

BOOK AN APPOINTMENT NOW!

Acupuncture near me at Forest Hill, NY

🔶🔷🔶🔷🔶🔷🔶🔷🔶🔷🔶🔷

Dr. Phumlarp Caulo LA,c, MAc. OM, DAHM

Doctor of Acupuncture/Chinese Medicine

Caulo Care Acupuncture

🔖 By appointment only

📧 bookingcaulocare@gmail.com

☎️+1 (929) 269-4549

#DrCAcupuncture  #Drcaulo

#acupucture #sleepy  #Hernia

#nofault #massage #Pressure #Liver

#Newyork  #Queens #caulocare