Living with chronic low back pain can be frustrating—especially when physical therapy, medications, or injections don’t bring lasting relief. If you’ve exhausted traditional treatments and are still searching for answers, the Intracept® Procedure may be the breakthrough you need.
What is the Intracept® Procedure?
The Intracept® Procedure is a minimally invasive, implant-free treatment designed specifically for a type of back pain called vertebrogenic pain. This pain originates from the vertebrae themselves—specifically, the endplates where the vertebrae and discs meet. These endplates can become inflamed over time, often due to wear and tear, leading to persistent discomfort.
The key to treating this pain lies in targeting the basivertebral nerve, which is responsible for sending pain signals from the inflamed vertebrae to the brain. Intracept® works by ablating (or burning) this nerve, effectively stopping the pain at its source.
Common Symptoms and Who It Helps
People who may benefit from Intracept® often describe their pain as:
- Lasting six months or more
- Worsening when sitting, bending, or lifting
- Not improving with conservative treatments like physical therapy or spinal injections
A good candidate will typically have Modic type 1 or 2 changes visible on an MRI—these are signs of inflammation in the vertebral endplates. The procedure is ideal for patients with stable spines (no major deformity or instability) who haven’t found relief through non-surgical methods.
How the Procedure Works
The Intracept® Procedure is performed in an outpatient setting and takes about one hour. A small probe is inserted into the vertebrae, and controlled heat is used to disable the basivertebral nerve. There are no implants or permanent hardware, making it a clean and minimally invasive option.
What to Expect After the Procedure
Most patients resume light activities within a few days after the procedure. Some experience noticeable pain relief as early as six weeks, with continued improvement over time. Clinical studies show that Intracept® delivers long-term, durable relief, helping patients get back to the activities they enjoy.
Book Your Appointment with Dr. Tony Lai
If you’ve been living with stubborn low back pain that hasn’t responded to other treatments, it may be time to explore the Intracept® Procedure. At Orthopedic Associates, Dr. Tony Lai specializes in non-operative spine care and is trained to perform this innovative procedure. Dr. Lai takes a personalized, evidence-based approach to spine health and is passionate about helping patients return to a pain-free life. Visit our website to book your consultation with him and find out if Intracept® is right for you.
