MILD

The minimally invasive lumbar decompression (MILD) procedure can be an effective treatment when chronic pain, weakness, and numbness threaten your quality of life. Interventional pain management expert James Ellner, MD, offers the MILD treatment as an outpatient procedure at Georgia Pain Management in Woodstock, Georgia. Dr. Ellner’s expertise ensures the highest standard of care as he attentively tailors solutions to your unique needs. Call Georgia Pain Management to learn more about the MILD procedure or use the online booking feature to schedule your consultation today.

What is the MILD procedure?

The MILD procedure is an effective surgical treatment for lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS). LSS causes the spinal canal to narrow and compress the nerves, and MILD removes excess ligament tissue to relieve damaging pressure and restore space.

If more conservative treatments like physical therapy and injections haven’t been as effective as you and Dr. Ellner would like, he may consider MILD to potentially reduce your pain and improve your mobility. 

What are the benefits of the MILD procedure?

Pain relief is the primary benefit, but there are plenty of reasons why Dr. Ellner might recommend the MILD procedure, including:

Early treatment option

Thanks to its targeted approach, it can be an excellent early treatment option for LSS as it relieves nerve compression with less trauma.

Outpatient procedure

The treatment usually takes less than an hour, and you can plan to go home on the same day. 

Faster recovery time

Because the procedure is minimally invasive, patients have less pain and faster recovery times. In fact, most can get back to their regular routines within a few days.

What are some signs the MILD procedure might benefit me?

Dr. Ellner may discuss this form of treatment if you’re experiencing:

• Back pain
• Loss of foot sensation
• Sciatica pain
• Gait issues, such as a foot drop
• Tingling, cramping, or weakness in your legs
• Decreased bladder or bowel control

Any of these can be a sign of a medical concern, so don’t hesitate to call Georgia Pain Management.

What can I expect during and after a MILD procedure?

You’ll start this outpatient procedure with local anesthesia and light sedation to ensure your comfort. Dr. Ellner makes a tiny incision in your back and carefully removes the thickened ligament tissue and excess bone compressing your nerves. After this short procedure, the Georgia Pain Management team monitors you for a while before clearing you to go home.

Some discomfort is normal after any medical procedure, but it should be mild and easy to manage with over-the-counter pain relievers. Avoid driving, bathing, or swimming for a day, but you can otherwise go about your routine.

Call the Georgia Pain Management office to learn more about the MILD procedure. You can also use the online booking form today to schedule a consultation.