Vertebrogenic Pain

Vertebrogenic lower back pain is specific to the vertebral endplates in your spine — the protective layers that separate the vertebral bones and discs. This pain can occur if one or more of these plates are damaged from general wear and tear. If you think you may have vertebrogenic pain, the experts at Desert Institute for Spine Care (DISC) are here to help you through the diagnosis and treatment processes.

Symptoms of Vertebrogenic Pain

Up until now, vertebrogenic pain was often lumped together with degenerative disc disease or arthritis. While vertebrogenic lower back pain is similar to arthritis, it is primarily related to the plates, not the discs. 

Here are some signs and symptoms of vertebrogenic pain:

• Deep burning or aching in the middle lower back
• Tingling or numbness in the back or limbs
• Muscle weakness in the back or limbs

Treating Vertebrogenic Pain at DISC

Vertebrogenic pain diagnosis usually starts with a physical examination. You may also need to receive an X-ray, CT scan or MRI to confirm damaged vertebral endplates.

During your initial consultation, the DISC team will discuss your symptoms and some treatment plans for vertebrogenic pain relief. We may recommend you try more conservative treatments like medications or physical therapy. If these treatments do not work for you, we will use minimally invasive surgical options.

To treat vertebrogenic pain, we will use the Intracept® procedure — an ultra-minimally invasive procedure that targets chronic vertebrogenic back pain. Specifically, Intracept® works to ablate the basivertebral nerve and provide long-term relief.

Vertebrogenic Pain Relief and Prevention Tips

The Intracept® procedure only requires a ¼-inch incision to preserve your lower back muscles and shorten recovery time. Your pain can subside almost immediately after surgery, allowing you to engage in your favorite activities again.

Because the general wear of your spine can cause vertebrogenic pain, there aren’t many prevention methods. However, here are some ways you can lower the risk of another vertebrogenic pain incident:

• Maintain a healthy weight: Being overweight for your body type can put unneeded stress on your spine, causing areas to wear down much faster. Maintaining a healthy weight can properly support your spine and prevent vertebrogenic pain.
• Stretch often: Get up and stretch your back frequently, especially if you work a desk job. Slumping all day can cause back issues down the line.
• Move your body regularly: Stay active to strengthen the muscles in your back for better vertebral support. You can also avoid vertebrogenic pain through improving your core strength.
• Avoid smoking: Many don’t realize that smoking can cause brittle bones. Take action for your health and avoid smoking to prevent further damage.

Contact the Experts at DISC for Treatment Today

You deserve to live a life you love — that’s why DISC is here to provide minimally invasive solutions for your back pain. Reach out to our office in Phoenix for quality care, even if you live across the world. We look forward to helping you take the next steps toward better back health.