Effective Relief for Lower Back Pain in TX
If you are experiencing chronic low back pain and conservative therapy has failed to improve your pain, the Intracept Procedure might offer you a path toward less pain and greater function. This minimally invasive procedure is proven to address chronic low back pain.
At Lone Star Orthopaedic and Spine Specialists our pain management specialist Dr. Marti offers his services at two convenient locations Burleson and Fort Worth.
To learn more about the Intracept Procedure please refer below for additional information and videos. When you are ready to book an appointment, please call us at 817-926-2663.
What is Vertebrogenic Pain?
Vertebrogenic pain is a distinct type of chronic low back pain caused by damage to vertebral endplates, the tissue that covers the top and the bottom of each vertebral body and separates it from the disc. Disc degeneration, and the wear and tear that occurs with everyday living, produce stresses on the endplates that damage them, leading to inflammation and vertebrogenic pain. The basivertebral nerve (BVN), found within the vertebrae, carries pain signals from the inflamed endplates to the brain.
How Do Patients Describe Vertebrogenic Pain?
The disc and endplate are both part of the anterior spinal column and produce similar low back pain symptoms. However, endplate pain is associated with distinctive changes on routine MRI called Modic changes. Patients who find relief from the Intracept Procedure often describe pain in the middle of their low back that is made worse by physical activity, prolonged sitting, and bending forward or with bending and lifting.1
How is Vertebrogenic Pain Treated?
The basivertebral nerve (BVN) enters the bone at the back of the vertebral body (the bones in your spine) and “branches” to the endplates (that are located at the top and the bottom of each vertebral body). When endplates are damaged, these nerve endings increase in number and “pick up” pain signals that are then sent to the brain through the BVN. The Intracept® Procedure relieves vertebrogenic pain by heating the basivertebral nerve (BVN) with a radiofrequency probe to stop it from sending pain signals to the brain.
How Does the Intracept® Procedure Work?
The Intracept Procedure is a minimally invasive, implant-free procedure that preserves the overall structure of the spine. The Intracept Procedure is a same-day, outpatient procedure. Patients are under anesthesia, and the procedure generally lasts an hour. The procedure is FDA-cleared and is proven in multiple studies to be safe, effective, and durable. 2,3
How Long Does Pain Relief Last Following the Intracept® Procedure?
Clinical evidence demonstrates the majority of patients experience significant improvements in function and pain 3-months post-procedure that are sustained more than 5 years after a single treatment. 2
How Do I Know If I’m a Candidate for Intracept®?
The Intracept® Procedure is indicated for patients who have had:
- Chronic low back pain for at least six months,
- Who have tried conservative care for at least six months, and
- Whose MRI shows features consistent with Modic changes – indicating damage at the vertebral endplates has led to inflammation.
The Intracept Procedure, as with any procedure, has risks that should be discussed between the patient and our pain management doctor.
FAQs on Chronic Lower Back Pain
Q: What is chronic lower back pain?
A: Chronic lower back pain is a condition characterized by pain in the lower back region that persists for more than three months. Unlike acute lower back pain, which often results from a specific incident and lasts for a shorter duration (typically less than six weeks), chronic lower back pain may not have a clear cause and can significantly affect the quality of life over a longer period. It can result from a variety of factors, including but not limited to, degenerative disc disease, arthritis, nerve damage, or long-standing issues related to posture or muscle strength.
Q: What causes chronic lower back pain and who is at risk?
A: Chronic lower back pain can arise from various causes such as degenerative disc disease, spinal stenosis, spondylolisthesis, arthritis, or chronic strains from poor posture or repetitive motions. Risk factors include aging, lack of regular exercise, poor posture, overweight or obesity, smoking, and underlying medical conditions like arthritis or cancer. Genetics may also play a role in an individual’s susceptibility to developing chronic back pain.
Q: How is chronic lower back pain diagnosed and treated?
A: Diagnosis of chronic lower back pain typically involves a medical history review and physical examination. Imaging tests like MRI or CT scans may be recommended to identify specific causes. Treatment is multidisciplinary and may include physical therapy, medication (e.g., pain relievers, anti-inflammatories), lifestyle modifications (e.g., exercise, weight loss), and in some cases, surgery. The approach depends on the underlying cause of the pain and the patient’s overall health condition.
Q: What are some ways to manage chronic lower back pain and prevent it from worsening?
A: Managing chronic lower back pain involves a combination of treatment plans tailored to the individual’s needs. Key strategies include engaging in regular low-impact exercise to strengthen the back and core muscles, practicing good posture, using ergonomic furniture, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding tobacco products. For pain management, methods such as hot/cold therapy, massage, acupuncture, and mindfulness practices like yoga or meditation can be beneficial. It’s also crucial for individuals to follow their treatment plans and communicate with our pain management specialist about any changes in their condition.
Connect with Lone Star Orthopaedic and Spine Specialists Today
Take the first step towards a pain-free life with our innovative chronic lower back pain treatment in TX. At Lone Star Orthopaedic and Spine Specialists, we are here to guide you through your journey to recovery. Schedule your appointment today. Your comfort, mobility, and quality of life are our top priorities.
Request an appointment online or call (817) 926-2663.
[1] Koreckij T, Kreiner S, Khalil JG, Smuck M, Markman J, Garfin S. Prospective, randomized, multicenter study of intraosseous basivertebral nerve ablation for the treatment of chronic low back pain: 24-month treatment arm results. NASSJ. Published online October 26, 2021. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.xnsj.2021.100089.
2 Fischgrund J, Rhyne A, Macadaeg K, et al. Long-term outcomes following intraosseous basivertebral nerve ablation for the treatment of chronic low back pain: 5-year treatment arm results from a prospective randomized double-blind sham-controlled multi-center study. Eur Spine J. 2020;29(8):1925-34. doi.org/10.1007/s00586-020-06448-x
3 Relievant data on file as of January 2023.
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