Chronic back pain not only effects everyday activities such as walking, bending over and even getting dressed, but it also limits mobility and disrupts overall physical function in daily life. Degenerative disc disease could be the root of the pain. Up to 40% or more adults over the age of 40 have at least one degenerated disc. At Forté Sports Medicine and Orthopedics, our specialists work with patients dealing with back pain. If you’re experiencing chronic back pain, you may be a candidate for the VIA Disc NP procedure.
What is a VIA Disc NP Procedure?
VIA Disc NP is a minimally invasive, non-surgical outpatient procedure most used for patients with chronic back pain who have failed conservative care. It treats degenerative disc disease by replacing lost tissue. Patients who have this procedure experience reduced pain and increased spinal function.
Similar to other pain management procedures, the consideration process to receive this procedure includes an initial office consultation where Dr. Michael Del Busto provides a physical exam, review of advanced images and discusses treatment options.
VIA Disc NP provides a restorative solution to pain and function, whereas many other treatments may simply mask pain. We are addressing the problem at its root cause.
Who Can Benefit from VIA Disc NP?
This procedure is for patients who have experienced tissue loss within the lumbar intervertebral discs. These patients have chronic low back pain that is typically worse with prolonged sitting and bending forward who have failed conservative care. This is not for patients with referred pain in the legs with numbness, burning or weakness.
How Does The Procedure Work?
A VIA Disc NP is an allograft of lumbar disc that is able to be fluoroscopically placed in the spine without surgery through a needle similar to an injection. The procedure takes 15 to 30 minutes to complete in an outpatient setting.
What Is the Expected Recovery Timeframe?
The recovery from this procedure is a few days The patient will be at home recovering after the procedure. Heavy lifting will be limited for one week after the procedure and then progress back to activities thereafter.
The procedure is minimally invasive and only a needle is needed to place the implant. This allows for a faster recovery within a matter a few days.
Is Rehabilitation Required after the Procedure?
No. Patients do not need any rehabilitation after VIA Disc NP.
How Long Do Results Last?
Clinical studies have shown that 70% of patients experience approximately 50 to 70% pain reduction with sustained pain relief for up to 12 months. Ongoing studies are being done to provide longer-term outcome data. Individual results may vary.
Does Insurance Cover VIA Disc NP?
Medicare, VA, some federal plans and worker’s compensation insurance cover the procedure. Most commercial payers do not cover the procedure currently.
Meet With a Specialist Today
At Forté Sports Medicine & Orthopedics, our specialists offer expert treatment options to restore the function of your spine and relieve chronic pain. If you’re ready to discover options for your back pain to find relief, we are here to help. Schedule a consultation today, to get started on your path to recovery.
*The VIA Disc NP procedure will take place at the Franciscan Orthopedic Hospital at the Carmel Forté Sports Medicine and Orthopedics location.
Experiencing chronic low back pain disrupts daily activities and mobility. Forté Sports Medicine and Orthopedics specialists work with patients dealing with back pain to return them to pain-free living. If you’re experiencing chronic low back pain, you may be a candidate for the Basivertebral Nerve Ablation procedure.
What is a Basivertebral Nerve Ablation Procedure?
This is a minimally invasive, outpatient procedure with fluoroscopy to ablate (burn) the basivertebral nerve in the lumbar spine. The basivertebral nerve is the pain-generating nerve in the spine. The goal of the procedure is to destroy this nerve. Dr. Michael Del Busto works with patients who have not responded to conservative treatments to provide pain relief.
“We now have an exciting new treatment for chronic low back pain, and the relief is permanent,” said Dr. Michael Del Busto. “The basivertebral nerve ablation is a game changer for my patients and eliminates chronic low back pain without surgery.”
Who Can Benefit from Basivertebral Nerve Ablation?
This procedure is intended for patients with chronic low back pain who have failed conservative care. These patients also have specific findings called, Modic changes, on their MRI. Modic changes are detectable degenerative alterations in spinal vertebral endplates. These changes cause chronic low back pain, stiffness, increased pain during activity or after a night’s rest. This procedure is not for patients with referred pain in the legs with numbness, burning or weakness.
What is the Process of the Procedure?
The procedure burns and destroys the nerve. Basivertebral nerve ablation takes approximately 45 to 60 minutes to complete in an outpatient surgery center. This procedure is permanent.
What is the Efficacy of Basivertebral Nerve Ablation?
In 70% to 75% of patients, this procedure reduces pain by 50% to 100%.
What Is the Expected Recovery Timeframe?
The patient will go home the same day after the procedure. Most patients return to light activity within 24 to 48 hours. Full recovery typically occurs within one to two weeks.
How Long Do Results Last?
Based on the latest clinical data, this procedure offers sustained relief for at least five years. Ongoing studies are being done to provide longer-term outcome data. Individual results may vary.
“Patients can experience pain relief as quickly as a few weeks with maximum pain relief at 3 months,” said Dr. Michael Del Busto. “Many patients are excited to tell me they simply forgot that they have back pain.”
Does Insurance Cover Basivertebral Nerve Ablation?
Medicare and most commercial insurances cover this procedure.
Meet With a Specialist Today
If you’re ready to put an end to your low back pain, we are here to help. Restore the function of your spine and relieve chronic pain by experiencing the difference the Basivertebral Nerve Ablation procedure can make. Call 317.817.1200 to schedule a consultation with Forté Sports Medicine and Orthopedics today in Carmel, Indiana* or schedule a consultation today to get back to your forté.
*The Basivertebral Nerve Ablation procedure will take place in the Franciscan Orthopedic Surgery Center at the Carmel Forté Sports Medicine and Orthopedics location.
A pulled back muscle, also known as a back strain, is a common injury characterized by injury to the muscles and tendons in the lower back. It can result from sudden awkward movements, overexertion during activities or lifting heavy objects incorrectly. This guide provides a comprehensive approach to managing a pulled back muscle, stepping through everything from recognizing the symptoms to long-term preventative measures. For those struggling with back muscle pain, we offer this detailed roadmap to recovery, ensuring you get back to your active lifestyle safely and swiftly.
A pulled back muscle occurs when the muscles in the back are stretched beyond their capabilities, leading to minor muscle injury. This injury can be quite painful, often leading to muscle spasms and a limited range of motion. It's vital to recognize the symptoms early and follow a treatment plan to avoid chronic issues.
The first step in treating a pulled back muscle is recognizing the symptoms. While the severity can vary, common signs include:
If you experience these symptoms after a specific incident, such as lifting a heavy object, it's likely you have a pulled back muscle.
Immediate care after injuring your back is paramount. Rest is the first line of defense – it helps to prevent further damage and allows the muscle to begin the healing process. Applying ice to the injured area for 20 minutes every couple of hours during the first 48 hours can also help reduce pain and inflammation. Make sure to wrap the ice pack in a towel to avoid direct contact with your skin, which could cause ice burns.
Managing pain is key for comfort and to encourage you to rest your back. Over-the-counter pain medications, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can offer relief from back muscle pain. Additionally, there are topical treatments in the form of gels or creams that can be applied directly to the affected area to provide a soothing sensation.
Once the initial stage of acute inflammation has passed--again, usually after 48 hours--heat can be applied to the muscles. Heat helps to increase blood flow, which can speed up the healing process. You can use a heating pad, a warm water bottle, or take a warm bath to relax the muscles in your back. Don't sleep on a heating pad or apply heat for more than 20 minutes at a time to prevent burns.
As your back begins to recover, start incorporating gentle stretching and strengthening exercises into your routine. These exercises can help promote flexibility and build strength in the affected area. Here are a few examples of exercises that you can consider:
Remember, it is important to perform these exercises slowly and gently to avoid further injury. If you experience any pain or discomfort during any of these movements, it is advisable to stop immediately and consult your doctor or a physical therapist for personalized guidance and support. They can provide you with specific exercises tailored to your needs and help you progress safely in your recovery journey.
In some cases, a pulled back muscle may require professional intervention. Physical therapy can be incredibly beneficial for rehabilitating a back injury, and it can help prevent future occurrences. A physical therapist will work with you to develop a personalized exercise program that gradually increases in intensity, leading to a full recovery.
Physical therapy not only aids in recovery but also educates on proper body mechanics and ergonomics, key aspects to maintain back health. Therapists may incorporate techniques such as manual therapy, ultrasound, and electrical stimulation to improve mobility and relieve pain. This guided, therapeutic approach encourages progressive healing and minimizes the risk of reinjury.
The final step in preventing another back injury is to make changes to your lifestyle and habits. Here are some tips to help you in this process:
By following these steps and incorporating them into your daily routine, you can make sure that your pulled back muscle heals properly and reduce the chances of experiencing a similar injury in the future. Remember, taking care of your back is essential for overall well-being and long-term back health.
Recovering from a pulled back muscle can be a time-consuming process, so take the necessary steps to heal properly. Remember to listen to your body, take it slow, and seek professional help when needed. Your back is a vital part of your body; treat it with the care it deserves.
Ready to take the next step in your recovery journey? Don't hesitate to reach out for professional guidance. Visit Forté Sports Medicine for comprehensive support tailored to your needs or call us directly at (317) 817-1200 to schedule a consultation in Carmel, Greenwood, Noblesville, or Tipton, IN. Our team is dedicated to helping you return to your best self, with a strong and healthy back.
Dr. Stephen Ritter utilizes Stryker’s Q Guidance System with Spine Guidance Software for safer, faster, less invasive spine care
CARMEL, Ind. – Forté Sports Medicine and Orthopedics, a Carmel-based, physician-owned practice recognized as one of the region’s most respected orthopedic groups, is using innovative technology and advanced surgical techniques to provide more precise, minimally invasive treatment options for patients with spine conditions. Dr. Stephen Ritter, a board-certified orthopedic spine surgeon at Forté, is the first surgeon in the state to use Stryker’s Q Guidance System with Spine Guidance Software for navigation and guidance in surgery.
Back pain is one of the most prevalent health issues in the United States and worldwide. According to a Mayo Clinic Proceedings Study, it’s the third leading cause of doctor visits. Treatment for back pain varies based on the diagnosis. While it’s often treated non-surgically, there are times when surgery is the only viable option.
Ritter, a leading expert in modern back surgery approaches that prioritize improving health outcomes with less pain and collateral damage, adopted Stryker’s system for its advanced surgical planning and navigation capabilities. The system’s state-of-the-art camera and enhanced software can produce real-time, 3-D models of a patient’s spine, enabling surgeons such as Ritter to guide their tools and perform critical tasks more precisely and efficiently than ever before.
“Spinal surgeries performed using Stryker’s technology have the potential to be safer, faster and less invasive than other procedures,” said Ritter. “Our patients can recover more quickly with fewer complications and less prolonged pain, reducing the need for pain medication and shortening hospital stays. In my experience, patients are up and walking quickly after surgery and often discharged to home within 24 hours of surgery.”
Ritter is a board-certified orthopedic spine surgeon focusing on surgical and non-surgical care of spine conditions. Outside the clinic, he helps educate orthopedic fellows and industry professionals about spine surgery. Ritter has served as a spine surgery consultant for the Indianapolis Colts and the NFL Combine for over a decade.
To learn more about spine care at Forté Sports Medicine and Orthopedics, including surgical and non-surgical treatment options, visit forteortho.com.
More information about Stryker’s Q Guidance System is available at stryker.com.
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About Forté Sports Medicine and Orthopedics
Forté Sports Medicine and Orthopedics, previously known as Methodist Sports Medicine, is an independent, physician-owned orthopedic practice recognized as one of the region’s most respected orthopedic groups. Founded in 1983 as one of the country’s original sports medicine practices, Forté’s physicians and staff provide comprehensive, specialized sports medicine and orthopedic care to patients of all ages.
Clinical evaluations performed by highly skilled fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeons, combined with advanced surgical techniques and comprehensive non-surgical treatment options, provide patients with exceptional treatment outcomes and a return to active living. Forté provides patients with expert orthopedic care in several sub-specialties, including hand, wrist, elbow and shoulder; foot and ankle; hip and knee; joint replacement and revision; spine care and sports medicine. Forté has been trusted by the Indianapolis Colts as their team physicians since 1983 and serves as the orthopedic provider for Purdue University, Butler University, Indiana State University, and numerous high schools and public safety departments throughout central Indiana.
Forté Sports Medicine and Orthopedics also innovates daily through a separate 501(c)(3), Forté Orthopedic Research Institute, that improves the lives of patients everywhere through advanced clinical research and education.
Our Tipton office will be closed Friday, June 12th.