Peripheral Neuropathy

Differentiation between a herniated disc (lumbar disc herniation) and peripheral neuropathy: A herniated disc presents with symptoms along specific dermatomes due to nerve root compression; it is confirmed by lower back pain, a positive SLR test, and MRI. Peripheral neuropathy is characterized by bilateral symmetry and a sock- or glove-like distribution, and is confirmed by nerve conduction studies. "Double crush syndrome," where both occur simultaneously, is also common (spinal compression + distal entrapment together). In this case, treating only one area will not completely resolve the symptoms; both causes must be addressed.

Perspective of a Korean Medicine Clinic

In Korean medicine, lower back pain and radiating pain associated with herniated discs are viewed as stagnation of Qi and blood pathways around the spine, while peripheral neuropathy is attributed to Qi and blood weakness in the spleen and nerves, respectively; however, both roots are connected to the kidneys. When the kidney energy's function of governing the bones weakens, the spine also weakens, and peripheral nerve nutrition becomes insufficient. At Dongjedang, we provide integrated treatment for the lower back and lower extremities, combining lumbar do-chim (adhesion release and opening of intervertebral foramen space) with acupuncture for the Qi and blood pathways of the lower extremities. Treatment efficiency increases when the spine and peripheral nerves are simultaneously reinforced with constitution-tailored herbal medicine that strengthens kidney energy.