At Clearway Pain Solutions, our commitment goes beyond traditional pain management. We constantly embrace and advocate for the latest advancements in the field. As September is Pain Awareness Month, we delve deeper into four revolutionary procedures that have transformed lives: MILD, Viadisc, DiscFX, and spinal cord stimulation. “These newer procedures rely on cutting edge technological advances and discoveries gleaned from the latest clinical research. We’re very excited to be able to offer our patients the newest procedures that show a lot of clinical promise,” says Dr. Ahsan, who practices with Clearway-partner RelievUS, based in New Jersey and Pennsylvania. 

1. MILD (Minimally Invasive Lumbar Decompression)

The Problem:

Lumbar spinal stenosis is characterized by the narrowing of spaces within the spine, resulting in pressure on the nerves that pass through these narrowed spaces, leading to debilitating back and leg pain. Clearway’s Dr. Anna Irwin explains “Lumbar spinal stenosis is usually diagnosed in older adults, typically those over the age of 50 or 60. It is often associated with the natural aging process and degenerative changes in the spine.”

How MILD Works:

MILD is a lumbar decompression procedure that specifically addresses this issue. Utilizing specialized tools, small portions of bone and excess ligament tissue are removed, thus restoring the space in the spinal canal. With the compression eased, nerves are no longer pinched, alleviating the painful symptoms of the condition.

Key Benefits:

• Safety and Efficacy: Studies have shown that MILD patients experience significant reduction in pain and improved mobility.
• Quick Recovery: Most patients return to regular activities within a few days.
• Reduced Dependency: Many MILD patients reduce or eliminate the need for pain medications.

2. Viadisc Procedure

The Problem:

Degenerative disc disease, herniated discs, and disc-related lower back pain can significantly impede daily activities, with the intervertebral discs suffering inflammation and damage. Dr. Navin Ramani explains that “Degenerative disc disease is most prevalent among older adults and generally occurs as part of the aging process. However, certain factors can make someone more likely to experience degenerative disc disease, such as genetics, smoking, obesity, or inactivity. This is why we encourage our patients to lead a healthy lifestyle in addition to regular checkups with their doctors.” 

How Viadisc Works:

The Viadisc treatment employs a tailored solution injected directly into the affected intervertebral disc. This solution targets inflammation, promotes healing, and rejuvenates the disc, reducing or eliminating pain.

Key Benefits:

• Targeted Precision: Image-guided technique ensures accurate delivery to the affected disc.
• Alternative to Surgery: Particularly beneficial for those seeking non-surgical treatments or who may not be ideal surgical candidates.
• Rapid Recovery: Minimal downtime, allowing patients to resume activities quickly.

3. DiscFX Procedure

The Problem:

Disc pathologies, including tears, herniations, and degenerations, can result in persistent, agonizing pain.

How DiscFX Works:

This procedure introduces specialized instruments into the affected disc via a small incision. These tools are designed to remove damaged tissue, seal tears, and ablate problematic areas within the disc, mitigating the source of pain.

Key Benefits:

• Advanced Technology: DiscFX uses radiofrequency technology, ensuring precise and controlled treatment.
• Conservative Approach: It preserves more of the natural disc structure compared to other invasive surgeries.
• Outcomes: Many DiscFX patients report significant pain reduction and enhanced quality of life post-procedure.

4. Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS)

The Problem:

Chronic pain conditions, especially those resistant to other treatments, can be distressing and debilitating. Of SCS’s treatment indications, Dr. Aaron McPeek says “SCS is an excellent and highly versatile treatment option that can successfully alleviate many different painful conditions. Most commonly SCS therapy can be used for lumbar radiculopathy, post spinal surgery pain, diabetic peripheral neuropathy or nerve pain, complex regional pain syndrome just to name a few. SCS therapy has been proven to be effective for many conditions and is an excellent way to provide long term meaningful pain relief.”

How SCS Works:

Spinal Cord Stimulation involves implanting a small device in the body that sends electrical impulses to the spinal cord. These impulses interfere with pain signals sent to the brain, replacing the sensation of pain with a milder tingling feeling.

Key Benefits:

• Customizable: Stimulation levels can be adjusted based on patient needs.
• Reversible: If needed, the procedure can be reversed without any residual effects.
• Effective: Many chronic pain sufferers experience a significant reduction in pain, improving overall quality of life.

Final Thoughts

In the rapidly progressing world of pain management, staying abreast of the latest procedures ensures we offer our patients optimal care and results. Clearway Pain Solutions is dedicated to making these state-of-the-art treatments accessible.

If chronic pain is diminishing your life’s quality, remember that Pain Awareness Month is a timely reminder to explore innovative solutions. Reach out to us and let’s discuss how our treatments might transform your pain journey.

Disclaimer: Always consult with a medical professional before undergoing any procedure or treatment. Individual results can vary.