
Chronic lower back pain can be debilitating, affecting daily activities and overall quality of life. For individuals suffering from conditions such as spinal stenosis or nerve compression, minimally invasive lumbar decompression (MILD) offers a highly effective, low-risk alternative to traditional surgery. But who can benefit most from this procedure?
The expert providers at FullRange Spine & Ortho specialize in performing MILD to help patients regain mobility and reduce pain. Below, we explore the conditions treated with this innovative approach and how it can improve your spinal health.
What Conditions Can Be Treated with Minimally Invasive Lumbar Decompression?
Minimally invasive lumbar decompression is specifically designed for individuals experiencing nerve compression and spinal canal narrowing in the lower back. Here are the most common conditions that MILD can effectively treat:
- Lumbar Spinal Stenosis (LSS): LSS occurs when the spinal canal narrows, putting pressure on the nerves in the lower back. This can lead to pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness in the legs and buttocks. MILD helps relieve this pressure by removing small portions of thickened ligament tissue, creating more space for the nerves.
- Neurogenic Claudication: Patients with LSS often experience pain and weakness in their legs, especially when walking or standing for long periods. By alleviating nerve compression, MILD can significantly improve walking ability and endurance.
- Age-Related Spinal Degeneration: Over time, the spine naturally undergoes wear and tear, leading to thickened ligaments and reduced space for nerve function. MILD helps reverse these effects by restoring spinal space without the need for large incisions or extensive recovery time.
- Chronic Lower Back Pain Due to Nerve Compression: If lower back pain is caused by spinal stenosis rather than a disc issue, MILD can be a highly effective treatment option. By targeting the source of nerve compression, this procedure provides long-term relief for patients who may not be candidates for more invasive surgery.
How Does Minimally Invasive Lumbar Decompression Work?
Unlike traditional open-back surgery, MILD is performed using a specialized imaging-guided technique that requires only a small incision. Here’s what the procedure entails:
- Precise Imaging for Accuracy: The surgeon uses fluoroscopic (X-ray) guidance to pinpoint the area of compression in the lumbar spine.
- Tiny Incision and Targeted Removal: A small incision (typically less than 5mm) is made, allowing the surgeon to insert specialized tools to remove excess ligament tissue.
- Restoring Spinal Space: By carefully removing the thickened ligament, MILD restores space within the spinal canal, reducing nerve pressure and alleviating symptoms.
- No Implants or Stitches Required: Since the procedure is minimally invasive, no hardware implants are necessary, and the incision is so small that stitches are often not required.
- Quick Recovery and Lasting Relief: Patients typically experience significant symptom improvement within days and can resume normal activities with minimal downtime.
Benefits of MILD Over Traditional Surgery
- Minimally Invasive Approach: No large incisions, minimal tissue damage, and faster recovery.
- No General Anesthesia Required: The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, reducing risks associated with general anesthesia.
- Outpatient Procedure: Patients can go home the same day, avoiding long hospital stays.
- Significant Pain Relief: Most patients experience a substantial reduction in back and leg pain, improving mobility and quality of life.
- High Success Rate: Clinical studies have shown that MILD provides lasting relief for the majority of patients.
Minimally Invasive Lumbar Decompression in Los Angeles, CA
If you are experiencing symptoms of lumbar spinal stenosis or chronic lower back pain, minimally invasive lumbar decompression may be the right solution for you. At FullRange Spine & Ortho, our expert providers specialize in this advanced procedure to help patients regain mobility and live pain-free.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and find out if MILD is the best treatment option for your condition!
Posted on behalf of FullRange Spine & Ortho