Understanding Chronic Back Pain & How to Treat It

Think of your back pain as a signal. What is it trying to tell you? Is it a deep, throbbing ache in your lower back that gets worse when you sit? Or is it a sharp pain that flares up when you twist or bend? These aren’t just random feelings; they are specific clues pointing to the source of your discomfort. For many people living with chronic back pain, pinpointing the type of pain is everything. Pain coming from the vertebrae themselves often responds well to the Intracept procedure, while discomfort from arthritic facet joints is where Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) comes in. Understanding the difference is key to finding a solution that actually works for you.

Key Takeaways

• Know the Target of Your Treatment: Intracept addresses chronic pain that originates inside your spinal bones (vertebrae), while radiofrequency ablation (RFA) treats pain coming from the small facet joints that connect them.
• An Accurate Diagnosis Is Non-Negotiable: A specialist uses your specific symptoms, MRI results, and diagnostic blocks to pinpoint the exact source of your pain. This step is essential to match you with the procedure that will actually work.
• Understand the Longevity of Relief: Intracept is a one-time procedure designed to provide a durable, long-term solution. RFA offers significant relief that typically lasts six months to a year and can be repeated if facet joint pain returns.

What is Chronic Back Pain?

Back pain is one of the most common reasons people miss work or seek medical attention. But not all back pain is the same. While acute pain is a normal response to an injury and usually subsides within a few weeks, chronic pain is different. It’s a persistent signal from your nervous system that continues long after an initial injury has healed. Understanding this distinction is the first step toward finding a solution that works for you, because the approach to treating a temporary strain is very different from managing a condition that has become a long-term part of your life.

Defining Chronic Back Pain

So, what officially separates a bad week from a chronic condition? The main factor is time. According to medical guidelines, back pain is considered “chronic” if it lasts for more than three months. This isn’t just about the pain sticking around; it’s about the pain becoming a persistent problem that doesn’t respond to typical remedies like rest or over-the-counter medication. It’s the kind of pain that starts to interfere with your daily activities, from sleeping soundly through the night to simply sitting comfortably at your desk. Recognizing that your pain fits this description is key to seeking the right kind of specialized care.

Common Symptoms of Chronic Back Pain

Chronic back pain isn’t a single sensation; it can show up in many different ways. Your experience might be a constant, dull ache that never seems to fade, or it could be sharp, stabbing pains that appear without warning. Some people describe a burning feeling, while others struggle with stiffness and soreness that makes movement difficult. A tell-tale sign of a more complex issue is when the pain doesn’t stay in your back. If you feel pain that travels down into your hips or legs, sometimes reaching all the way to your feet, it often points to nerve involvement, like sciatica.

Back Pain by the Numbers

If you’re dealing with chronic back pain, you are far from alone. It’s a widespread issue that affects millions of people. Most cases start from something straightforward, like a muscle strain from lifting something heavy, a sudden injury, or underlying problems with the spine’s structure. However, back pain can also be a symptom of other conditions affecting your body, such as arthritis or other joint issues. The sheer number of potential causes is why a one-size-fits-all approach rarely works. Pinpointing the specific source of your pain is crucial for developing an effective treatment plan that addresses the root cause, not just the symptoms.

Common Causes and Risk Factors for Back Pain

Chronic back pain often feels mysterious, but it usually stems from specific causes and is influenced by certain risk factors. While a sudden injury can be an obvious trigger, long-term pain is frequently the result of accumulated stress on your back’s structures. This can come from repetitive movements, poor posture, or underlying medical conditions that develop over time. Understanding what causes the pain to linger and what factors put you at a higher risk can help you and your doctor identify the best path forward for diagnosis and treatment, creating a plan that is tailored to your body and your lifestyle.

What Causes Back Pain to Linger?

Pain that sticks around for months often has a clear mechanical or medical reason. It could be due to ongoing strain on the muscles and ligaments that support your spine, or it might be related to the spinal structures themselves. Conditions like bulging or ruptured discs can press on nerves, while arthritis can cause the space around the spinal cord to narrow, a condition known as spinal stenosis. Degenerative disc disease, where the discs between your vertebrae wear down, is another common culprit. Each of these conditions creates a different type of back pain, which is why a precise diagnosis is so important.

Muscle and Ligament Strain

The most frequent cause of back pain is strain to the muscles and ligaments that support your spine. This can happen from a single event, like lifting a heavy box with improper form, or from the cumulative effect of repetitive stress. Poor posture, especially sitting for long hours without ergonomic support, puts continuous strain on your back. Even seemingly harmless habits, like sleeping on an unsupportive mattress, can contribute to chronic muscle tension and pain. Over time, these strained tissues can become inflamed and weak, leading to a cycle of persistent discomfort that doesn’t easily resolve on its own without intervention.

Spinal Conditions

When back pain is caused by the spine itself, it often involves the vertebrae, discs, or nerves. A herniated disc occurs when the soft center of a spinal disc pushes through a tear in its exterior, often irritating nearby nerves. Osteoarthritis can affect the small facet joints that connect your vertebrae, causing pain and stiffness. Another source is skeletal irregularities, such as scoliosis, which is a curvature of the spine. These structural issues can lead to chronic pain because they alter the way your spine bears weight and moves, placing abnormal stress on certain areas and leading to persistent inflammation and discomfort.

Factors That Increase Your Risk

While anyone can experience back pain, certain factors can make you more susceptible to developing a chronic problem. Some of these are within your control, like lifestyle habits, while others, such as age or genetics, are not. Being aware of these risk factors is helpful because it allows you to make proactive changes where possible. For example, strengthening your core muscles can provide better support for your spine, potentially offsetting risks related to your job or age. Recognizing your personal risk profile is a powerful step in managing and preventing long-term back pain before it begins to limit your life.

Lifestyle and Job-Related Risks

Your daily habits and work environment play a significant role in your back health. A sedentary lifestyle or lack of regular exercise can lead to weak back and abdominal muscles, which fail to properly support the spine. Conversely, jobs that require heavy lifting, pushing, or pulling—especially if they involve twisting your spine—can lead to injury. Even desk jobs can be problematic if you spend hours slouching over a keyboard. Additionally, carrying excess body weight puts extra stress on your back, increasing the risk of developing painful conditions over time. Making small adjustments to your daily routine can make a big difference.

Health and Age-Related Factors

As we get older, the chances of developing back pain increase. Age-related changes, like the loss of fluid in spinal discs and a natural decrease in bone strength, can contribute to conditions like degenerative disc disease and osteoarthritis. Certain diseases, including specific types of arthritis and cancer, can also cause back pain. Furthermore, your mental health can play a role; people with depression and anxiety may experience pain more intensely. Lifestyle choices like smoking can also be a factor, as it reduces blood flow to the lower spine, which can contribute to disc degeneration and slow down healing.

When to See a Doctor for Back Pain

It can be tough to know when back pain is something you can manage at home and when it’s time to call a professional. Many of us try to push through the discomfort, hoping it will go away on its own. While minor aches and pains often do resolve with a little rest, there are clear signs that indicate a more serious issue might be at play. Paying attention to these signals is crucial for getting a timely diagnosis and preventing a manageable problem from turning into a chronic one. Don’t dismiss persistent pain; it’s your body’s way of telling you that something needs attention.

Signs It’s Time to Schedule a Visit

You should consider scheduling a visit with a pain specialist if your back pain has lasted for more than a few weeks without improvement. If the pain is severe and doesn’t get better with rest, that’s another key indicator. Pay close attention to pain that spreads down one or both of your legs, especially if it goes below the knee, as this often suggests nerve compression. Any accompanying weakness, numbness, or tingling in your legs is also a significant red flag. These symptoms suggest that at-home care isn’t enough, and it’s time to get an expert opinion to figure out the underlying cause and find an effective treatment.

Emergency Symptoms Requiring Immediate Care

Some symptoms are more than just a red flag—they’re a sign that you need immediate medical help. If your back pain is accompanied by new bowel or bladder control problems, seek care right away. This can indicate a serious condition called cauda equina syndrome, which requires urgent intervention. You should also seek immediate help if your back pain comes with a fever, as this could signal an infection. Finally, if the pain started after a significant injury, such as a fall or a direct blow to your back, it’s essential to get checked out immediately to rule out a fracture or other serious damage.

Exploring Treatment Options for Chronic Back Pain

Once you’ve decided to seek help for chronic back pain, you’ll find that there are many different paths to relief. The right approach for you will depend on the specific cause of your pain, its severity, and your overall health. Treatment is often a step-by-step process, starting with the most conservative methods and moving toward more advanced procedures only if needed. The goal is always to find the least invasive, most effective solution to reduce your pain and improve your function, allowing you to get back to the activities you enjoy with confidence and comfort.

Conservative and At-Home Care

The first line of defense against chronic back pain typically involves conservative, non-invasive treatments. These are methods you can often do at home or with the guidance of a therapist. The focus is on reducing inflammation, improving mobility, and strengthening the muscles that support your spine. This approach is often highly effective, especially when different strategies are combined. For many people, a dedicated routine of physical therapy, gentle exercise, and smart lifestyle adjustments can provide significant relief and prevent the pain from worsening, laying a strong foundation for long-term back health.

Physical Therapy and Exercise

One of the most important components of conservative care is physical therapy. A physical therapist can teach you specific exercises designed to strengthen your core muscles, improve your posture, and increase your flexibility. This isn’t just about general fitness; it’s about targeted movements that stabilize your spine and reduce strain on the painful areas. Regular, gentle exercise like walking, swimming, or yoga can also be incredibly beneficial. Movement helps deliver nutrients to your spinal discs and keeps your muscles from becoming stiff, which is why staying active—under the guidance of a professional—is often a key part of the recovery process.

Heat, Cold, and Lifestyle Adjustments

Simple at-home remedies can also play a big role in managing chronic back pain. Applying heat can help relax tight muscles and improve blood flow, while cold packs can reduce inflammation and numb sharp pain. Beyond that, making small changes to your daily life can have a big impact. This includes focusing on good posture when sitting and standing, using ergonomic chairs and keyboards, and learning proper lifting techniques. Adjusting your sleeping position or investing in a more supportive mattress can also provide relief. These adjustments help reduce the daily strain on your back, giving it a better chance to heal.

Medications and Mind-Body Techniques

When at-home care isn’t quite enough to manage the pain, your doctor might recommend medications. Over-the-counter pain relievers like aspirin or anti-inflammatory drugs are often a good starting point for reducing inflammation and easing discomfort. In addition to medication, mind-body techniques can be a powerful tool for managing chronic pain. Practices like meditation, deep breathing exercises, and yoga can help calm your nervous system, which can change your perception of pain. These techniques empower you to take an active role in your well-being and can be an excellent complement to other medical treatments.

Minimally Invasive Procedures

If conservative treatments don’t provide adequate relief, it doesn’t mean you have to jump straight to major surgery. There is a wide range of minimally invasive procedures that can target the specific source of your pain with remarkable precision. These treatments are designed to deliver relief directly to the affected area without the long recovery times associated with traditional surgery. They are often performed on an outpatient basis, allowing you to return home the same day. This approach bridges the gap between conservative care and surgery, offering powerful solutions for persistent pain.

Injections for Pain Relief

One of the most common and effective minimally invasive options is therapeutic injections. These procedures involve injecting pain-numbing medicine, often combined with a steroid to reduce inflammation, directly at the source of the pain. For example, an epidural steroid injection can help calm nerve roots that are irritated by a herniated disc. For pain stemming from arthritis in the spine, a cervical or lumbar facet joint injection can provide significant relief. These injections can help break the cycle of pain and inflammation, often providing enough relief to allow you to engage more effectively in physical therapy.

A Deeper Look at Advanced Treatments

When chronic back pain is severe and doesn’t respond to conservative care or basic injections, it’s time to explore more advanced, targeted treatments. These procedures are designed for specific types of pain that originate from particular structures in the spine. They represent the cutting edge of pain management, offering hope for individuals who feel like they’ve run out of options. At Kentuckiana Pain Specialists, we focus on accurately diagnosing the root cause of your pain to determine if you are a candidate for these innovative therapies. These treatments go beyond just managing symptoms; they aim to provide long-lasting relief by addressing the underlying problem directly.

For example, if your pain is coming from arthritic facet joints, a procedure called Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) can be used to quiet the specific nerves that are sending pain signals. For those with pain originating from damaged vertebral endplates, the Intracept Procedure offers a groundbreaking solution. For widespread nerve pain, Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS) uses a small, implanted device to interrupt pain signals before they can reach the brain. These advanced options require the expertise of a specialist to ensure they are matched correctly to your unique condition, providing a personalized and highly effective approach to reclaiming your life from chronic pain.

Intracept vs. Radiofrequency Ablation: What’s the Difference?

When you’re dealing with chronic back pain, finding the right treatment can feel overwhelming. Two highly effective, minimally invasive options you might hear about are the Intracept procedure and Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA). While both use targeted energy to stop pain signals from reaching your brain, they work in different ways and treat different sources of pain. Think of them as two specialized tools for very specific jobs. Understanding how each one works is the first step in figuring out which approach might finally bring you the relief you’ve been looking for. Let’s break down what makes each procedure unique.

What Happens During the Intracept Procedure?

The Intracept procedure is a groundbreaking treatment designed for a specific type of chronic lower back pain that comes from the vertebrae themselves, not the discs or joints. This is known as vertebrogenic pain. The treatment targets the basivertebral nerve, which is located inside the bones of your spine. During this minimally invasive procedure, your doctor uses X-ray guidance to place a small probe into the vertebra. This probe delivers targeted heat to the basivertebral nerve, which stops it from sending pain signals to your brain. It’s a one-time treatment that offers a durable solution for patients whose back pain hasn’t responded to other therapies.

What to Expect from Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)

Radiofrequency Ablation, often called RFA, is a procedure that addresses pain originating from the facet joints. These are the small joints along your spine that help you bend and twist. When they become arthritic, they can cause significant pain. RFA works by targeting the tiny nerves—called medial branch nerves—that send pain signals from these joints. Using X-ray guidance, your doctor places a thin needle next to these nerves. Radiofrequency energy is then passed through the needle, creating heat that cauterizes the nerve and interrupts the pain signals. This procedure is a proven way to get relief from facet joint pain in the neck or lower back, and our team specializes in Radiofrequency Ablation to help patients regain mobility.

Which Type of Back Pain Does Each Procedure Treat?

While both Intracept and radiofrequency ablation manage chronic back pain, they aren’t interchangeable. Think of them as two different keys for two different locks. The right procedure for you depends entirely on the specific source of your pain. One targets pain coming from the bones of your spine (vertebrae), while the other focuses on the small joints that connect them. Understanding this distinction is the first step toward finding lasting relief. A thorough diagnosis is essential to pinpoint the cause of your discomfort and match you with the procedure designed to treat it.

Could Intracept Relieve Your Chronic Lower Back Pain?

Intracept is a breakthrough for a specific type of chronic lower back pain called vertebrogenic pain, which originates from damaged vertebral endplates—the tops and bottoms of your spinal bones. If you have a deep, aching pain in your lower back that worsens when you bend forward, sit for long periods, or are active, Intracept might be the answer. It’s designed for patients whose MRIs show specific changes (Modic Type 1 or 2) that indicate the basivertebral nerve inside the vertebra is sending pain signals. This procedure directly targets that nerve to stop the pain at its source.

Is RFA the Right Choice for Your Facet Joint Pain?

Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is the go-to treatment for pain stemming from the facet joints. These small, stabilizing joints between each vertebra allow your spine to bend and twist. Over time, arthritis or wear and tear can cause them to become inflamed and painful. If your back pain feels like a dull, arthritic ache that sometimes radiates into your buttocks or thighs, facet joint issues could be the culprit. RFA uses heat to create a lesion on the tiny nerves sending pain signals from these joints, effectively interrupting the message to your brain.

How to Match Your Symptoms to the Right Procedure

So, how do you know if your pain is coming from your vertebrae or your facet joints? That’s where a specialist comes in. An accurate diagnosis is the most critical part of the process. Your doctor will perform a comprehensive evaluation, including a physical exam, medical history review, and a close look at your MRI. They may also use diagnostic facet joint blocks to confirm if the facet joints are the source of your pain. Being open about your symptoms—what your pain feels like and what makes it worse—gives your doctor the clues needed to identify the true cause and recommend the most effective treatment.

Weighing the Pros and Cons of Each Treatment

When you’re dealing with chronic back pain, understanding the potential outcomes of any treatment is a top priority. Both Intracept and radiofrequency ablation are effective, minimally invasive procedures, but they shine in different ways. The right choice depends on the source of your pain, your treatment goals, and your lifestyle. Let’s break down what you can expect from each procedure in terms of success rates, recovery, and long-term relief.

Intracept: What Are the Success Rates and Risks?

The Intracept procedure is a game-changer for a very specific type of chronic lower back pain called vertebrogenic pain. Studies show impressive results: about two-thirds of patients experience at least a 50% reduction in pain, and roughly one-third become completely pain-free. Because it targets the basivertebral nerve inside the vertebrae, it offers a durable solution for pain that originates from damaged vertebral endplates.

However, it’s important to know that Intracept is not a catch-all for every kind of back pain. If your pain is caused by issues like herniated discs, sciatica, or problems with your facet joints, this procedure won’t be the right fit. A thorough diagnosis is key to determining if you’re a candidate.

RFA: How Effective Is It and What’s Recovery Like?

Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a trusted and highly effective treatment for pain stemming from the facet joints. These small joints along your spine can become arthritic and painful, and RFA works by using heat to quiet the specific nerves sending pain signals from those joints to your brain.

One of the biggest benefits of radiofrequency ablation is its efficiency and minimal downtime. The procedure itself usually takes less than 30 minutes, and most people are back to their normal activities within a day or two. It’s an excellent option for getting targeted relief from facet joint pain without a long or difficult recovery period.

Which Procedure Offers Longer-Lasting Pain Relief?

When it comes to long-term results, the two procedures have different profiles. Intracept is designed to be a one-time, permanent fix. By ablating the basivertebral nerve, it stops the pain signals at their source for good. You can typically expect to feel significant improvement within a few weeks of the procedure.

Radiofrequency ablation provides substantial pain relief that can last anywhere from six months to over a year. However, the treated nerves can eventually grow back, and the pain may return. For many, the long-lasting relief is well worth it, and the procedure can be repeated if necessary. Ultimately, the best path forward is always the one that directly addresses the root cause of your unique pain.

How Do You Know Which Treatment Is Right for You?

Choosing between advanced procedures like Intracept and radiofrequency ablation isn’t a decision you have to make on your own. The most important step is getting an accurate diagnosis from a specialist who understands the complexities of chronic pain. By working together, you and your doctor can pinpoint the exact source of your discomfort and create a treatment plan that’s tailored to your body and your life. This process involves a careful look at your medical history, a physical exam, and specific diagnostic tests to ensure you’re on the right path to relief.

It’s all about finding the precise cause of your pain so we can apply the most effective solution, rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach. For example, one person’s chronic lower back pain might stem from the vertebral bones themselves, while another’s might come from the small joints connecting them. These two distinct sources require very different treatments. Our goal is to move beyond just managing symptoms and instead target the underlying generator of your pain. This collaborative approach ensures that you feel confident and informed every step of the way, empowering you to take an active role in your own care.

Why Diagnostic Tests and MRIs Are a Crucial First Step

To find the root cause of your back pain, your doctor will likely start with advanced imaging. An MRI scan is particularly useful because it provides a detailed picture of your spine’s vertebrae, discs, and nerves. For vertebrogenic pain, doctors look for specific signals of inflammation in the vertebral bones called “Modic changes.” The presence of these changes is a key indicator that the Intracept procedure might be the right solution for you. In other cases, your doctor may use diagnostic facet joint blocks to confirm if the facet joints are the source of your pain, which would point toward RFA as a more effective option.

A Closer Look at Your Unique Symptoms

The way your pain feels and behaves provides crucial clues for your diagnosis. Do you have a deep, aching pain in your lower back that gets worse when you sit for a long time or bend forward? That could suggest vertebrogenic pain, making you a candidate for Intracept. On the other hand, if your pain is more localized, feels sharp, and worsens when you twist or arch your back, it might be coming from your facet joints. This type of pain often responds well to radiofrequency ablation. Clearly communicating your specific symptoms helps your doctor match your experience to the most appropriate and effective treatment.

Key Questions to Ask Before Choosing a Treatment

Ultimately, the decision comes down to a few key factors. You might be a strong candidate for the Intracept procedure if you’ve had chronic lower back pain for more than six months, haven’t found relief with other conservative treatments, and your MRI shows Modic Type 1 or Type 2 changes. For RFA, the main consideration is whether your pain is confirmed to originate in the facet joints. Your doctor will review all of these factors with you, discussing the potential benefits of each of our pain management treatments to help you make an informed choice that aligns with your goals for pain relief.

What to Expect During Your Recovery

Recovery from both procedures is typically straightforward, but the timeline for relief can vary. After the Intracept procedure, most people are back to their usual activities within a couple of weeks. While some patients feel better almost immediately, it can take anywhere from two weeks to three months to experience the full benefits as the nerve endings heal. Recovery from RFA is often even quicker, with many people noticing significant pain reduction within one to three weeks. Your doctor will give you specific post-procedure instructions to ensure your recovery is as smooth and comfortable as possible.

How to Prevent Back Pain

While you can’t always avoid an injury, you have more control over your back health than you might think. Many instances of back pain stem from the cumulative effect of our daily habits. By making small, intentional changes to how you move, stand, and live, you can build a stronger, more resilient spine. It’s not about a complete overhaul overnight, but about adopting smarter habits that reduce unnecessary strain on your back muscles and ligaments. These preventative measures can significantly lower your risk of developing chronic issues down the road and are a powerful first line of defense against discomfort.

Everyday Habits for a Healthier Back

Think about how many times a day you bend, lift, sit, and stand. Most of us perform these actions without a second thought. However, the way we move our bodies throughout the day has a direct impact on our spinal health. Building a healthier back starts with paying attention to these seemingly minor movements. By learning and practicing proper body mechanics, you can protect your spine from the daily wear and tear that often leads to strain and even neck pain. It’s about working with your body’s natural design, not against it, to keep your back strong and functional for years to come.

Proper Posture and Safe Lifting Techniques

Proper body mechanics are your back’s best friend. Start by focusing on your posture: stand tall without slouching, keeping your hips in a neutral position. If you’re on your feet for long periods, try resting one foot on a low stool to ease pressure on your lower back. When it comes to lifting, the golden rule is to use your legs, not your back. Keep the object close to your body, bend at your knees while keeping your back straight, and never twist while lifting. Don’t be a hero—if something feels too heavy or awkward, ask for help. These simple adjustments protect your spine from unnecessary strain.

Lifestyle Choices That Matter

Your back health is deeply connected to your overall well-being. The choices you make every day—from what you eat to how you manage stress—can either support a strong spine or contribute to its decline. Factors like carrying extra weight or smoking can place significant, often hidden, stress on the structures of your back. Taking a holistic view of your health is one of the most effective ways to prevent back problems before they start. By addressing these lifestyle factors, you’re not just helping your back; you’re investing in your long-term health and vitality.

The Role of Weight and Smoking

Maintaining a healthy weight is one of the kindest things you can do for your spine, as excess pounds put constant strain on your back muscles and vertebrae. Smoking also poses a significant risk to back health. It can trigger chronic coughing, which may lead to painful herniated discs, and it reduces vital blood flow to the spine. This lack of circulation can weaken the bones and slow down the body’s natural healing processes. Addressing these lifestyle factors can directly reduce your risk of developing chronic back pain and improve your overall resilience.

A Note on Mattresses and Back Supports

It’s easy to get drawn in by products that promise to prevent or cure back pain, from special shoe inserts to elaborate back supports. However, there isn’t much solid evidence to prove that most of these gadgets work. The same goes for mattresses—there is no single “best” mattress for everyone. The most important factor is what feels comfortable and supportive to you. Instead of searching for a magic product, focus on what allows you to get restful sleep without waking up stiff and sore, which can sometimes be a sign of underlying joint pain from conditions like arthritis.

Finding a Solution for Your Chronic Back Pain in Louisville

Living with chronic back pain can feel isolating, but you don’t have to manage it alone. Here in Louisville, our team at Kentuckiana Pain Specialists is dedicated to helping you find lasting relief. It all starts with understanding the unique source of your pain and creating a care plan that’s tailored specifically to you. We believe in a partnership approach, where we work together to get you back to living your life more comfortably.

How We Pinpoint the Source of Your Pain

Getting to the root of your pain is our first and most important step. A precise diagnosis is the foundation for effective treatment. We use advanced imaging, like MRI scans, to get a clear picture of what’s happening in your spine. For vertebrogenic pain—pain that originates in the vertebrae—we look for specific indicators called Modic changes. These changes in your spinal bones help confirm if a procedure like Intracept could be the right solution for you. By taking the time to pinpoint the exact source of the pain, we can move forward with confidence.

A Comprehensive Approach to Care

Once we have a clear diagnosis, we work with you to create a treatment plan that makes sense for your life. An accurate diagnosis is the most critical part of the process, but it’s just the start. We believe in a collaborative approach where your voice is heard. Your doctor will walk you through all the findings from your physical exam, medical history, and MRI, explaining what they mean in plain language. Together, we’ll explore all of your pain management treatments, not just Intracept or RFA, to find the one that aligns with your goals. This partnership ensures you feel confident and informed every step of the way, empowering you to take an active role in your own care.

Why Trust Dr. Ajith Nair with Your Care

When you’re dealing with persistent pain, you want a specialist who not only has deep expertise but also truly listens. Dr. Ajith Nair is committed to providing that level of personalized care. He specializes in advanced treatments like the Intracept Procedure, which is designed for chronic low back pain that comes from the vertebrae, especially when there isn’t significant pain radiating down the legs. Dr. Nair will walk you through all your options, explaining the benefits of each potential treatment so you can make an informed decision about your health and well-being.

Take the First Step on Your Path to Relief

Your journey to relief is unique, and your treatment plan should be too. If an MRI confirms that your pain is coming from your spinal bones, the Intracept Procedure may be the most direct path to feeling better. But the only way to know for sure is to have a conversation with a specialist. We invite you to schedule a consultation at our Louisville or Elizabethtown office. Together, we can review your symptoms, discuss your diagnostic results, and create a personalized treatment plan designed to help you reclaim your life from chronic back pain.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is one of these procedures better than the other for back pain? Neither procedure is better than the other; they are simply designed for different jobs. Think of it like using a key for a specific lock. The Intracept procedure is the ideal solution for chronic pain that originates from inside your spinal bones, known as vertebrogenic pain. Radiofrequency ablation, on the other hand, is the go-to treatment for pain caused by arthritic facet joints. The best procedure is always the one that directly targets the true source of your discomfort.

How will my doctor know which treatment is right for me? Finding the right treatment starts with a precise diagnosis. Your doctor will conduct a thorough evaluation that includes reviewing your medical history, discussing your specific symptoms, and performing a physical exam. Advanced imaging, like an MRI, is used to look for specific changes in the vertebrae that indicate Intracept may be the solution. For facet joint pain, your doctor may use diagnostic nerve blocks to confirm the pain source before recommending radiofrequency ablation.

How long does the pain relief from Intracept and RFA last? The two procedures offer different long-term results. The Intracept procedure is designed to be a one-time, durable solution. By treating the basivertebral nerve at the source, it provides lasting relief from vertebrogenic pain. Radiofrequency ablation offers significant relief that can last anywhere from six months to over a year. The nerves treated with RFA can eventually regrow, but the procedure can be safely repeated if the pain returns.

What is the recovery process like for these procedures? Because both treatments are minimally invasive, the recovery is much quicker and easier than with traditional surgery. Most people who have radiofrequency ablation are back to their normal activities within a day or two, with pain relief starting within a few weeks. After the Intracept procedure, you can also expect to return to your routine fairly quickly, though it may take from a few weeks up to three months to experience the full benefits as the nerve fully heals.

Do I have to choose between Intracept and RFA, or could I potentially need both? This is an excellent question that gets to the heart of why a specialist’s diagnosis is so important. While most patients have one primary source of pain that makes them a clear candidate for either Intracept or RFA, it is possible for pain to come from multiple sources. A comprehensive evaluation will determine if your pain is coming from your vertebrae, your facet joints, or a combination of factors, which will then guide your personalized treatment plan.