22/12/2024
Case Study: Improvement in Frequent Urination for a Man in His 40s
Background
The patient started experiencing symptoms of frequent urination two years ago. During the day, he needed to use the restroom approximately every 30 minutes, and at night, he woke up several times due to the urge to urinate. Despite consulting a urologist, his symptoms did not improve.
Following a recommendation from his wife, he visited our acupuncture and moxibustion clinic.
Initial Consultation Findings
Through comparative palpation during spinal acupuncture therapy, the following abnormalities were identified:
・Thoracic Vertebrae 3 and 4: Vertebrae associated with respiratory functions.
・Lumbar Vertebra 5: Related to both respiratory and bladder functions.
・Lumbar Vertebra 3: Strongly linked to urinary functions.
Given that this year’s rainy season and summer brought high humidity and heat, which strained the respiratory systems of many individuals, it was hypothesized that respiratory burden might have affected urinary functions. Thus, the initial treatment focused on balancing the respiratory system.
Second Visit (One Week Later)
The patient reported that for two days after the first treatment, the intervals between restroom visits during the day lengthened. Examination revealed that while the vertebrae related to respiratory functions were almost aligned, a strong abnormality persisted in Lumbar Vertebra 3.
Upon further inquiry, the patient disclosed that he worked as a truck driver and frequently carried loads weighing approximately 30 kg. This information led to the conclusion that excessive strain on Lumbar Vertebra 3 from his job was likely the root cause of his frequent urination.
The second treatment focused on correcting Lumbar Vertebra 3 through spinal acupuncture therapy.
Third Visit (Another Week Later)
After the second treatment, the patient reported no longer waking up at night due to the urge to urinate. Additionally, the intervals between restroom visits during the day extended to about 90 minutes. His wife, who had referred him to the clinic, also expressed delight, noting significant improvement in his symptoms.
Discussion
This case suggests that frequent urination was triggered by strain on Lumbar Vertebra 3, closely linked to urinary functions, due to the physical demands of the patient’s job. Furthermore, the burden on the respiratory system caused by extreme humidity and heat may have indirectly impacted urinary functions via Lumbar Vertebra 5, complicating symptom improvement.
By addressing both respiratory and lumbar issues through treatment, the patient’s symptoms improved significantly.