Posted on September 29, 2024
At Advanced Pain Management & Spine Specialists (APMSS), some of the patients in the most miserable pain are those with persistent disc pain.
As one ages, the intervertebral discs, which are the cushions between the bones in the spine, tend to deteriorate. This is due to the wear and tear one accumulates in life; whether it be heavy lifting, car accidents, falls, exercises or even weight gain. The discs become dehydrated and start to lose height. This means they are more prone to bulges and tears.
The inside of the disc, known as the nucleus pulposis, is the matter that performs shock absorption. As one ages and the cushion degenerates, MRI imaging shows this when the inner disc turns from white to black.
Disc pain is often described as a constant, dull ache that may worsen when bending forward; sitting or driving for prolonged periods; lifting heavy objects; or even with coughing or sneezing. The pain may improve by rest or lying down. Sciatica or leg pain may also be present if there is nerve compression, which is often described as shooting pain down the leg.
Initial treatments for lower back pain may include physical therapy, oral medications (such as anti-inflammatories), and heat or cold therapies. Additional options range from epidural injections, stem cell injec-tions, and disc surgery or replacement.
Many times, these patients receive only temporary relief from injections and therapy. Fortunately, there is a new treatment available that may offer a long-term solution.
We are now able to restore the cushioning portion through an injectable process. The ViaDisc procedure takes less than 15 minutes and achieves pain relief by allowing the disc to repair itself.
In ViaDisc, an injection administers donor matter directly into the injured disc. Because this applies biologically compatible matter, the disc responds as if it is your own and repair begins quickly.
One recent case involved a 38year-old male who was injured while exercising at his local gym. He experienced a dull ache in his back with tingling in the back of his a left thigh.
His primary care doctor initially attempted physical therapy and anti-inflammatory medications, which provided minimal relief. He was then referred to APMSS. His MRI imaging revealed a tear and bulge at his L4-L5 intervertebral disc.
Epidural injections were given but failed to give adequate relief. The patient opted to see a neurosur-geon, who stated he was not a surgical candidate.
Upon his return to our care, we discussed ViaDisc as a long-term pain relief option. The 15-minute procedure is done in Park Center for Procedures with the patient under light sedation.
At his one month follow up, he reported having a reduction of the dull ache in his back and minimal tingling in his left leg. At 3 months, the patient stated he had approximately 90 percent relief from his usual pain and was able to resume exercising.
Initial improvement is usually noted within 1-3 months. Studies show an average of 70 percent decrease in pain over 12 months with a significant increase in function.
The ViaDisc procedure is covered by Medicare as well as many other Medicare replacement plans.
To learn more about ViaDisc and other minimally-invasive options to provide long-term pain relief, call 239-437-8000.