When to Consider MILD for Chronic Back Pain?

Living with chronic back pain can affect every aspect of your life, from daily mobility to your overall well-being. If conservative treatments haven’t brought lasting relief, it may be time to explore a minimally invasive option. The MILD procedure, or minimally invasive lumbar decompression, is designed to relieve pressure on spinal nerves caused by lumbar spinal stenosis. At Greater Austin Pain Center, our experienced back pain doctors offer advanced solutions like MILD to help patients regain comfort and function.

What Is the MILD Procedure?

MILD stands for minimally invasive lumbar decompression. This outpatient procedure is used to treat lumbar spinal stenosis by removing small portions of ligament in the lower back that are causing compression on the spinal nerves. The procedure is performed through a small incision using specialized tools, and there are no stitches required. Most patients can return home the same day.

MILD is performed under local anesthesia and sedation, avoiding the need for general anesthesia. Because it is minimally invasive, the risk of complications is low, and the recovery period is much shorter compared to traditional spine surgery.

Who Is a Candidate for MILD?

MILD may be recommended for patients with lumbar spinal stenosis who have not found relief through non-surgical treatments. Candidates typically include:

• Individuals who experience pain, numbness, or weakness in the lower back, legs, or buttocks
• Patients whose imaging shows a thickened ligament or narrowing of the spinal canal
• Those who have tried physical therapy, medications, or steroid injections with limited success
• Patients who want to avoid traditional back surgery and its longer recovery time

If you’re unsure whether you’re a candidate, a consultation with a back pain doctor at Greater Austin Pain Center can help determine the best course of action for your condition.

Signs It Might Be Time to Consider MILD

Chronic back pain can be difficult to manage, especially when symptoms begin to interfere with your daily life. Here are a few signs it might be time to consider the MILD procedure:

• Your back pain worsens with standing or walking for long periods
• Conservative treatments are no longer providing relief
• You are unable to participate in activities you once enjoyed
• Imaging shows thickened ligaments causing pressure on spinal nerves
• A back pain specialist has discussed surgical options with you, but you prefer a less invasive approach

Benefits of the MILD Procedure

The MILD procedure offers a range of benefits for patients dealing with spinal stenosis-related back pain. It is a safe, effective, and minimally invasive option that can significantly reduce pain and improve mobility. 

Key benefits include:

• No general anesthesia or implants
• Minimal tissue damage and no stitches
• Same-day discharge and a short recovery time
• Long-term improvement in walking ability and pain levels
• Proven clinical results with high patient satisfaction

MILD provides a valuable alternative to open surgery for those seeking relief from back pain without the risks and downtime of traditional procedures.

What to Expect During and After the MILD Procedure

At Greater Austin Pain Center, we guide you through every step of the process. During your MILD procedure, a small incision is made in the lower back to access the compressed area of the spine. Using a specialized device, small pieces of the ligament causing compression are removed. The procedure typically takes under an hour.

After the procedure, you will be monitored briefly and can usually return home the same day. Most patients are encouraged to walk shortly after, and many report improvement in mobility within days. Recovery is quick, and normal activities can typically be resumed within a week.

MILD vs. Other Back Pain Treatments

When comparing MILD to other treatment options, several advantages stand out:

• Unlike steroid injections, which offer temporary relief, MILD targets the source of the pain for longer-lasting results.
• MILD is less invasive than a laminectomy or spinal fusion, making it ideal for patients looking to avoid surgery.
• Compared to physical therapy, MILD may be a better choice for those with structural spinal issues not responding to exercise alone.

Your back pain doctor will help you weigh the benefits of each treatment and determine if MILD is the most appropriate option for your needs.

Talk to a Back Pain Doctor in Austin

If chronic back pain is affecting your quality of life and conservative treatments haven’t worked, it may be time to consider minimally invasive lumbar decompression. 

At Greater Austin Pain Center, our experienced back pain doctors can help determine whether this minimally invasive option is right for you. We serve patients in Austin, Dripping Springs, San Marcos, Kyle, and throughout the Austin area.

‍Call today or schedule a consultation online to start your path to lasting relief.