Helping a Home-Bound Patient Walk Again: A Lumbar Disc Recovery Case with Acupuncture

Today I completed the fourth session with a 57-year-old lady who has been suffering from a herniated lumbar disc and had been unable to walk since April last year.

When we first met a few weeks ago, she had multiple lumbar disc bulges at L2/3, L3/4, L4/5 and L5/S1 with moderate spinal canal stenosis. She was in significant pain, completely home-bound, and unable to stand or walk independently. Despite hospital-prescribed medication and regular physiotherapy visits, there had been little improvement.

In addition, arthritis in her knees and ankles further limited her mobility and worsened her discomfort. After months of frustration and slow progress, she decided to try acupuncture.

Knowing she could not leave the house, I offered home visits. Although it takes me nearly two hours to travel to her home each time, I accepted the challenge because I truly wanted to help her regain her independence. I felt that she and her family were placing a great deal of trust in me, and I was determined to do my best.

Over the first three treatments, I used a combination of acupuncture, moxibustion, cupping, and gua sha. The focus was to activate the channels, improve circulation of Qi and Blood, release long-standing stagnation, warm and strengthen Kidney Yang, relax tight muscles, and address the arthritis in her knees and ankles.

The treatments were not easy for her and could be quite intense at times, but she showed incredible determination and tolerated each session with courage and patience.

Today brought very encouraging news.🎉

For the first time in nearly a year, she was able to walk a few steps independently using a walking frame.

She also reported reduced pain in her back, hips, and knees, improved overall energy, and even less night sweating. Both she and her family were overjoyed to finally see progress after such a long and difficult period.

Moments like this remind me why I do this work. Seeing my patients regain function, confidence, and hope is deeply rewarding and meaningful. Even small steps forward can change someone’s life.