How the mild Procedure Can Help You Avoid Major Back Surgery
Is lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS) slowing you down, making simple tasks like walking or standing painful? You’re not alone—many adults face these challenges, but surgery isn’t always necessary.
The mild® procedure (Minimally Invasive Lumbar Decompression) is a non-surgical solution designed to relieve pressure on your spinal nerves, improve mobility, and restore function. At Vertex Pain Physicians, we specialize in this minimally invasive approach that offers lasting relief with minimal recovery time.
What Is the mild® Procedure?
The mild® (Minimally Invasive Lumbar Decompression) procedure is an FDA-cleared outpatient treatment designed to relieve pain caused by lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS). Spinal stenosis occurs when the space around the spinal cord narrows, putting pressure on nerves in the lower back. The mild® procedure targets the thickened ligament tissue that causes this pressure and safely removes it to restore space and improve mobility.
Unlike traditional surgery, the mild® procedure requires no general anesthesia, no stitches, and no overnight hospital stay.
Why Choose mild® Over Traditional Back Surgery?
Many patients prefer the mild® procedure because it is:
- Minimally invasive: Only a small incision is needed, less than 5mm wide
- Low risk: No general anesthesia and very few complications
- Outpatient: You can go home the same day
- Effective: Clinically proven to improve mobility and reduce pain
- Fast recovery: Most patients resume normal activity within a few days
For those seeking back surgery alternatives in San Antonio, mild® offers a safer, less disruptive solution.
What Conditions Does mild® Treat?
The mild® procedure is specifically designed to treat lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS). This condition often causes symptoms like:
- Chronic lower back pain
- Leg pain or numbness
- Difficulty standing or walking for long periods
- Cramping in the legs when walking (neurogenic claudication)
At Vertex Pain Physicians, our experts use the mild® procedure to help patients find relief from LSS and regain their quality of life without undergoing open surgery.
How Does the mild® Procedure Work? – Step-by-Step
- Evaluation and Imaging
Your provider reviews your symptoms and uses imaging such as MRI or X-ray to confirm LSS and locate thickened ligaments. - Local Anesthesia
A local anesthetic is applied to the lower back. No general anesthesia is required. - Small Incision
A tiny incision (about the size of a baby aspirin) is made to access the spine. - Guided Tools with Imaging
Using live X-ray imaging (fluoroscopy), specialized tools are inserted to remove excess ligament tissue. - Decompression of Spinal Canal
Removing the thickened ligament increases space in the spinal canal, relieving nerve pressure. - Same-Day Discharge
The procedure is completed in under an hour, and patients typically return home the same day. - Quick Recovery
Most patients can resume light activities within a few days.
Benefits of the mild® Procedure
- Avoid Major Surgery: No large incisions, muscle cutting, or hardware implantation
- Minimal Downtime: Most patients return to normal activities quickly
- Improved Mobility: Many patients walk longer distances without pain
- Lasting Relief: Clinical studies show long-term improvement in pain and function
- Covered by Medicare and Most Insurances
At Vertex Pain Physicians, we’ve seen firsthand how the mild® procedure transforms lives.
What to Expect After the mild® Procedure
- Mild soreness at the injection site for a few days
- Increased mobility often noticed within one to two weeks
- Follow-up appointments to monitor your progress
- Possible physical therapy to strengthen the lower back
Most patients report significant improvement in their symptoms within weeks, and many avoid the need for traditional surgery altogether.
Why Choose Vertex Pain Physicians in San Antonio?
At Vertex Pain Physicians, we specialize in the latest non-surgical pain relief treatments, including the mild® procedure. Our experienced team of pain management doctors in San Antonio is committed to helping you live pain-free through advanced, evidence-based care.
Whether you’re seeking minimally invasive back surgery alternatives or need a trusted back pain doctor in San Antonio, Vertex Pain Physicians is here to help.
Get Back to Life Without Surgery – Book Your Consultatio
Don’t let back pain take over your life. The mild® procedure could be the non-surgical solution you’ve been searching for. At Vertex Pain Physicians, we’re here to help you move better, feel better, and live better.
Call us today or schedule your consultation online to find out if you’re a candidate for the mild® procedure. Let our specialists in back pain management in San Antonio guide you toward lasting relief.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What is the mild® procedure used to treat?
The mild® procedure is specifically designed to treat lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS), a condition caused by thickened ligaments in the lower spine that compress nerves and cause back and leg pain. - Is the mild® procedure safe?
Yes, the mild® procedure is FDA-cleared and considered very safe. It is minimally invasive, requires no general anesthesia, and has a low risk of complications. - How long does the mild® procedure take?
The entire procedure typically takes less than one hour and is performed as an outpatient treatment, meaning you can go home the same day. - What is recovery like after the mild® procedure?
Most patients experience only mild soreness and are able to return to light activities within a few days. Full mobility improvements are often noticed within weeks. - Is the mild® procedure covered by insurance?
Yes, the mild® procedure is covered by Medicare and many private insurance providers. Coverage can vary, so it’s best to consult with our office for verification. - Am I a candidate for the mild® procedure?
Candidates typically have lumbar spinal stenosis, experience pain while walking or standing, and haven’t responded well to conservative treatments like physical therapy or injections. - Will I need physical therapy after the mild® procedure?
While not always necessary, some patients benefit from physical therapy post-procedure to strengthen back muscles and maintain improved mobility. - How soon will I see results after the mild® procedure?
Many patients report significant improvement in walking ability and reduction in pain within one to two weeks after the procedure. - Can the mild® procedure be repeated if needed?
In most cases, patients experience long-term relief after one procedure. However, your doctor may recommend additional treatment depending on symptom recurrence or progression. - Why choose Vertex Pain Physicians for the mild® procedure in San Antonio?
At Vertex Pain Physicians, our specialists provide expert care using the latest image-guided techniques to ensure precise, safe, and effective treatment tailored to your needs.
Disclaimer
This content is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider regarding any medical condition or treatment options.
