South Korean singer Rain disclosed his ongoing battle with neck and back pain, prompting him to visit a rehabilitation hospital for specialized medical treatment.
On Jan. 29, Rain shared a detailed video on his YouTube channel "Season B Season," where he revealed his health struggles. The 43-year-old artist, whose real name is Jung Ji-hoon, explained that he suffers from herniated discs between his fifth and sixth cervical vertebrae in his neck, alongside spinal stenosis in his lower back at the fifth and sixth lumbar levels.
According to Rain, the pain has become so intense that it affects his daily life, with discomfort particularly acute in the area around his lower back.
During his hospital visit, rehabilitation medicine specialist Lee Jong-min examined Rain's condition using MRI imaging and ultrasound technology. The doctor found that Rain's neck, which should naturally form a C-shaped curve, had straightened due to poor posture, according to Star News Korea.
Despite Rain's good muscle mass, the specialist noted that postural issues likely contributed to the deterioration. The examination revealed that the cervical vertebrae had shifted slightly, resulting in reduced disc space and bone spurs that caused the discs to collapse significantly.
The ultrasound examination showed inflammation in the fluid-filled sacs on both sides of his lower back. Dr. Lee indicated that approximately 90 percent of Rain's pain stemmed from disc-related issues, with the remaining 10 percent caused by muscle tension and minor inflammation.
Rain attributed his health problems to his recent work on a boxing-themed drama production. He explained that filming required him to use muscle groups he does not normally engage, placing significant strain on his back. The pain emerged approximately five to six months after completing the project.
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During his treatment session, Rain underwent several therapeutic procedures, including shockwave therapy and hyperbaric oxygen treatment. The shockwave therapy initially caused discomfort, though Rain noted it felt different from what she expected, allkpop reported.
After completing the oxygen therapy session, which lasted about one hour, he reported feeling noticeably better and expressed relief at the immediate improvement in his symptoms.
Medical experts emphasized the importance of consistent management and regular stretching exercises for Rain's ongoing care.
The specialist's team developed a customized treatment plan combining multiple therapeutic approaches and advised Rain that treatment intensity would be adjusted based on his performance schedule to prevent overexertion.
The singer expressed gratitude to the medical staff and acknowledged his gratitude for receiving prompt professional attention, as per chosun.
