A Guide to Doctors Who Perform MILD Procedure

Getting back to the simple activities you love, like taking a walk or playing with your grandkids, shouldn't feel like an impossible goal. For many people with Lumbar Spinal Stenosis, the MILD procedure is making that a reality. This minimally invasive treatment is clinically proven to help people stand longer and walk farther with significantly less pain. It works by removing a small amount of excess ligament tissue that’s crowding the spinal canal. The results are designed to be long-lasting, but they depend on the expertise of your physician. Here, we’ll cover the entire process and explain how to find qualified doctors who perform mild procedure.

Key Takeaways

• MILD Corrects the Structural Problem

  : Instead of just masking symptoms like injections do, this procedure physically creates more space in your spinal canal by removing the excess ligament tissue that causes nerve compression and pain.

• Your Doctor's Qualifications Are Key

  : The MILD procedure requires specific training and certification directly from the manufacturer. Always confirm your doctor is certified to perform this treatment to ensure you receive the safest, most effective care.

• Expect a Simpler Path to Relief

  : With a strong safety profile, a recovery time of just a few days, and broad insurance coverage, the MILD procedure offers a straightforward and less disruptive alternative to traditional open-back surgery.

What Is the MILD Procedure?

If persistent lower back and leg pain is keeping you from living your life, you’re probably looking for a solution that offers real, lasting relief without the ordeal of major surgery. That's where the MILD procedure comes in. MILD, which stands for Minimally Invasive Lumbar Decompression, is a game-changing treatment specifically designed for people suffering from Lumbar Spinal Stenosis (LSS). It’s a safe, FDA-cleared outpatient procedure that has helped thousands of people stand longer and walk farther with significantly less pain.

The core idea behind MILD is simple: it addresses a very common structural problem in the spine that causes pain, but it does so with a gentle touch. Unlike traditional open surgery, it doesn't require general anesthesia, stitches, or a long hospital stay. Instead, it’s a sophisticated procedure that targets the root cause of the nerve compression with precision. It’s about creating more space for your spinal nerves so they can function without being pinched and irritated. Think of it as a way to decompress your spine from the inside out, restoring mobility and improving your quality of life. Let's take a closer look at the condition it treats and how this innovative procedure works.

What Is Lumbar Spinal Stenosis?

Many people experience ongoing lower back pain caused by Lumbar Spinal Stenosis, or LSS. Think of your spinal canal as a tunnel that your spinal cord and nerves run through. In LSS, this tunnel narrows, often due to natural, age-related changes in the spine. One common cause is the thickening of a specific ligament in your back, called the ligamentum flavum. When this ligament gets too thick, it can crowd the spinal canal and pinch the nerves inside. This pressure is what causes the aching, numbness, or tingling you might feel in your lower back, buttocks, and legs, especially when you’re standing or walking. It’s a primary reason why many people seek treatment for chronic back pain.

How the MILD Procedure Works

The MILD procedure is a straightforward and elegant solution to this problem. The goal is to create more room for your nerves, which in turn relieves the painful pressure. During the procedure, a specialized doctor uses a tiny incision—about the size of a baby aspirin—to access the spine. Using imaging guidance, they carefully remove small pieces of the thickened ligament that are causing the compression. By clearing out this excess tissue, the procedure restores space in the spinal canal, giving your nerves the breathing room they need. It’s one of the advanced treatments we use to target the root cause of your pain with precision and minimal disruption to your body.

Key Benefits of the MILD Procedure

One of the biggest advantages of the MILD procedure is that it’s minimally invasive. The entire process typically takes about an hour, and you can go home the same day to recover in the comfort of your own home—no hospital stay required. Because it doesn't involve major surgery, the recovery is much faster. Most people are back to light activities within a few days. More importantly, the results are designed to last. Studies have shown that the MILD procedure provides durable relief, with 88% of patients avoiding open back surgery for at least five years afterward. If you’re ready to find a lasting solution, we can help you determine if you’re a candidate.

What Qualifies a Doctor to Perform the MILD Procedure?

When you’re considering a medical procedure, one of the biggest questions is, "Is my doctor the right person for the job?" This is especially true for specialized treatments like the MILD procedure. It’s not something just any doctor can perform. The qualifications are specific and rigorous, designed to ensure you receive the safest and most effective care. Finding a physician with the right background is the first and most important step toward finding relief from lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS).

A qualified MILD doctor is more than just a board-certified physician; they are a specialist who has dedicated time to mastering this particular technique. They’ve gone through hands-on training, earned specific certifications, and committed to staying on top of the latest advancements. Think of it like hiring any other expert—you wouldn't ask a general contractor to handle intricate electrical wiring. Similarly, you want a doctor whose skills are perfectly matched to the procedure you need. Understanding these qualifications helps you ask the right questions and feel confident in the expert you choose to guide your pain management journey.

Essential Medical Training

The first thing to know is that the MILD procedure requires very specific training. A doctor can't simply decide to start offering it. To become qualified, physicians must complete a comprehensive training program provided directly by Vertos Medical, the company that developed the procedure. This isn't just a quick webinar; it's an in-depth course covering the precise techniques, tools, and safety protocols involved. This manufacturer-led training ensures that every doctor performing the procedure adheres to the same high standard of care. It’s a critical quality control measure that protects you as the patient and helps ensure consistent, positive outcomes.

Specialized Certifications to Look For

After completing the required training, doctors are certified to perform the procedure. This certification is your proof that a physician has met the strict standards set by Vertos Medical. When you're researching potential doctors, don't be shy about asking if they are certified for the MILD procedure. A qualified provider will be happy to confirm their credentials. This certification signifies that they have not only learned the technique but have also demonstrated their ability to perform it safely and effectively. It’s a key differentiator that separates a true MILD specialist from other physicians who may treat back pain but lack this specific expertise.

Why Experience Matters

While certification is the baseline, experience is what hones a doctor's skill. The more a physician performs the MILD procedure, the more adept they become at handling the nuances of each unique case. Vertos Medical even offers advanced programs like mild360 to give interventional pain fellows hands-on experience. When you meet with a potential doctor, it's perfectly reasonable to ask how many MILD procedures they have performed. An experienced physician will have a deeper understanding of patient selection and technique, which can make a real difference in your results. Their practical knowledge is an invaluable asset in your treatment.

Commitment to Ongoing Education

Medicine is always evolving, and the best doctors are lifelong learners. A physician’s commitment to ongoing education is a great sign that they are dedicated to providing the best possible care. For MILD specialists, this means staying current on the latest research, techniques, and best practices. Reputable medical societies and Vertos Medical itself offer webinars and other learning opportunities to help doctors refine their skills. A doctor who actively participates in continuing education is invested in their craft and in achieving excellent outcomes for patients like you. This dedication ensures you’re benefiting from the most up-to-date and effective approaches available.

How to Find a Qualified MILD Doctor

Finding the right doctor is the most important step in your treatment journey. You need someone with the right skills, experience, and a communication style that makes you feel comfortable and heard. When you’re looking for a physician to perform the MILD procedure, it’s crucial to find a specialist who is not just qualified, but specifically trained for this innovative treatment. This ensures you receive the highest standard of care for your lumbar spinal stenosis.

At Releviimed, our team is dedicated to providing advanced, minimally invasive pain management solutions, and we believe in empowering you with the information you need to make confident decisions about your health. Let’s walk through how to find a MILD specialist you can trust.

What Kind of Doctor Performs the MILD Procedure?

Not every doctor is equipped to perform the MILD procedure. This treatment is typically handled by pain management specialists, interventional radiologists, or anesthesiologists who focus on treating chronic pain. The most critical qualification, however, is specific training from the manufacturer, Vertos Medical. The company ensures that any physician offering the procedure has completed a rigorous training program to master the technique. This requirement guarantees that your doctor understands the nuances of the procedure and is prepared to perform it safely and effectively. When you begin your search, focus on specialists in pain medicine who list MILD as one of their offered treatments.

Tools for Finding a Specialist

A great place to start your search is online. The official MILD procedure website, run by Vertos Medical, has a helpful “Find a Doctor” tool that allows you to locate certified physicians in your area. This is one of the most reliable ways to find a pre-vetted specialist. You can also ask your primary care physician for a referral to a trusted pain management clinic. Additionally, you can research local clinics directly. Look for providers who specialize in interventional pain treatments and check their websites for information on the MILD procedure. A well-informed clinic will have clear details about the treatments they offer.

How to Check a Doctor's Credentials

Once you have a few potential doctors in mind, it’s time to do a little homework. Start by visiting the clinic’s website and reading the doctor’s biography. Look for board certifications in fields like Pain Medicine or Anesthesiology. Most importantly, don’t hesitate to call the office and ask directly if the doctor has completed the official training from Vertos Medical to perform the MILD procedure. A reputable clinic will be happy to confirm their physicians' qualifications. Our team at Releviimed is always transparent about our specialists' training and experience, as we believe that trust is the foundation of excellent patient care.

Key Questions for Your Consultation

Your initial consultation is your opportunity to get answers and see if the doctor is the right fit for you. Feeling prepared can make a huge difference. To make the most of your appointment, consider bringing a list of questions.

Here are a few key things to ask:

• How effective is this treatment for someone with my specific condition?

• How long can I expect the pain relief to last?

• What are the potential risks and benefits I should be aware of?

• Where is the procedure performed, and how long does it take?

• What does the recovery process look like?

Pay attention to how the doctor answers. You want a partner in your health journey who listens to your concerns and explains things clearly. If you’re ready to start the conversation, you can schedule a consultation with our team.

What to Expect: From Consultation to Recovery

Deciding to pursue a medical procedure can feel like a big step, but knowing what’s ahead can make the entire process feel much more manageable. From your first conversation with a specialist to your post-procedure recovery, understanding the journey helps you prepare and feel confident in your care. The path to relief with the MILD procedure is a clear, structured process designed with your comfort and well-being in mind.

The journey begins with a simple consultation to determine if you're a good candidate. This is your opportunity to share your story, ask questions, and get to know your care team. From there, you’ll move through specific diagnostic tests to pinpoint the exact cause of your pain. Once the procedure is scheduled, you’ll receive clear instructions on how to prepare. The procedure itself is minimally invasive, and the recovery is often much quicker than with traditional surgery. Let’s walk through each of these steps so you know exactly what to expect.

Your First Evaluation

Your first appointment is all about you. It’s a dedicated time for you to sit down with a specialist and have an open conversation about the pain you’re experiencing. Your doctor will want to know about your symptoms, your medical history, and what you’ve already tried for relief. This initial evaluation is crucial for determining if the MILD procedure is the right fit for your specific condition, which is often lumbar spinal stenosis. Think of this as the beginning of a partnership. It’s the perfect time to ask any questions you have and ensure you feel comfortable with your care team.

Medical Tests You Might Need

To get a precise look at what’s happening in your spine, your doctor will likely recommend some imaging tests. An MRI is a common and effective tool for diagnosing lumbar spinal stenosis because it provides a detailed view of your spinal structures. While the idea of more tests might seem daunting, this step is essential for creating a treatment plan that’s tailored specifically to you. These imaging tests give your doctor the information they need to confirm your diagnosis and plan the most effective approach, ensuring you get the best possible outcome.

How to Prepare for the Procedure

Once you and your doctor decide to move forward, you’ll receive instructions on how to prepare for procedure day. A key part of this is reviewing your current medications. It’s important to tell your doctor about everything you take, including over-the-counter drugs, supplements, and especially any blood thinners, as you may need to pause them temporarily. You’ll also need to discuss any allergies you have. Being thorough during this stage is vital for your safety and helps ensure the procedure goes as smoothly as possible. Your care team will guide you through every step, so you’ll feel ready and informed.

Your Recovery Timeline

One of the biggest advantages of the MILD procedure is its minimally invasive nature, which usually means a shorter recovery time. The procedure itself typically takes about an hour, and you’ll be able to go home the same day. Most patients are encouraged to start walking and gradually return to their normal light activities within a few days. Many people report feeling less pain and improved mobility shortly after the procedure. Compared to more invasive surgeries, the MILD procedure involves a low risk of complications and allows you to get back to your life much faster.

Is the MILD Procedure Safe?

When you’re dealing with chronic back pain, safety is understandably a top priority. The good news is that the MILD procedure has a strong and well-established safety record. It’s a minimally invasive option designed to provide relief with fewer risks than traditional open surgery. Of course, like any medical procedure, it’s important to understand the full picture—from potential side effects to success rates—so you can feel confident in your decision.

At Releviimed, we believe in honest communication, which means walking you through every aspect of your care. Let’s break down what you need to know about the safety of the MILD procedure.

Potential Risks and Side Effects

Every procedure, no matter how minor, comes with some level of risk. For the MILD procedure, the chances of complications are very low. The most common side effects are typically mild and temporary, such as soreness at the incision site, similar to what you might feel after a deep muscle injection. In rare cases, there is a small risk of infection or nerve damage. Your doctor will discuss these possibilities with you and explain the extensive precautions taken to keep you safe and ensure a smooth recovery.

Important Safety Considerations

The MILD procedure is considered a very safe outpatient treatment. In fact, studies show it has an extremely low complication rate. There have been no reports of serious complications like spinal cord sac tears (dural tears), significant nerve root damage, or blood loss requiring a transfusion. Because it’s performed through a tiny incision and doesn’t require general anesthesia, many of the risks associated with major surgery are avoided. This focus on safety is a key reason why our team offers a range of advanced treatments like MILD.

What Are the Success Rates?

Research consistently shows that the MILD procedure is not only safe but also effective. It has been found to be as safe as an epidural steroid injection but provides more significant and longer-lasting pain relief. One major five-year study found that an impressive 88% of patients who underwent the MILD procedure were able to avoid more invasive back surgery later on. This high success rate, combined with its FDA approval since 2006, highlights its reliability as a treatment for lumbar spinal stenosis.

Follow-Up Care and Monitoring

Your care doesn’t end when the procedure is over. After your MILD procedure, your doctor will provide specific instructions for recovery and schedule a follow-up appointment to monitor your progress. If you find that your pain begins to return over time, it’s important to talk to your doctor. There are several options available, including other non-surgical treatments like physical therapy. In some cases, the MILD procedure can even be performed again if a different part of the spine is causing compression. You can always contact our team to discuss your long-term pain management plan.

MILD Procedure Costs and Insurance

Thinking about the financial side of any medical procedure can feel overwhelming, but it’s a really important step in your healthcare journey. The good news is that when it comes to the MILD procedure, many patients find that their insurance provides significant coverage. Understanding your options ahead of time can bring peace of mind and help you focus on what truly matters: getting relief from your pain.

At Releviimed, we believe in clear and honest communication about every aspect of your care, including the costs. We're here to help you understand the process so you can make an informed decision that feels right for you. Let’s walk through what you need to know about insurance coverage and payment options for the MILD procedure.

Will Insurance Cover the MILD Procedure?

One of the most common questions we hear is whether insurance will cover the MILD procedure, and for many, the answer is yes. The MILD procedure is covered nationally by Medicare and Medicare Advantage plans, which is a huge relief for eligible patients. Beyond Medicare, many private insurance companies also provide coverage for this minimally invasive treatment.

Because every insurance plan is different, the best first step is to check the specifics of your policy. A quick call to your insurance provider can clarify your coverage details. Our team can also help you understand what to expect based on your plan and provide the necessary information for your insurer. We want to make sure you have all the details you need before moving forward with any treatments.

Exploring Your Payment Options

Once you know what your insurance will cover, you can explore the remaining payment options. For those covered by Medicare, the process is often straightforward. If you have a private insurance plan, our administrative team is here to help you understand your benefits and any potential out-of-pocket expenses, like co-pays or deductibles.

You are never alone in figuring this out. We can assist with billing questions and provide support as you work with your insurance company. Our goal is to make the financial process as smooth as possible so you can concentrate on your health. If you have any questions about billing or insurance, please don't hesitate to contact our office, and we’ll be happy to walk you through it.

How to Verify Your Costs Upfront

To avoid any surprises, we always recommend verifying your costs before your procedure. Contacting your insurance provider directly is the most effective way to get a clear picture of your financial responsibility. When you call, you can ask them for specifics about your coverage for the MILD procedure.

It’s helpful to have a few questions ready, such as:

• Does my plan cover the MILD procedure?

• Do I need pre-authorization before scheduling it?

• What is my remaining deductible for the year?

• What will my co-pay or coinsurance be for this procedure?

Getting these answers upfront empowers you to plan accordingly. Our commitment to customized care extends to ensuring you feel confident and prepared for every step.

How Does MILD Compare to Other Treatments?

When you’re dealing with chronic back pain from lumbar spinal stenosis, it can feel like your options are limited to temporary fixes or major surgery. The good news is that treatments have come a long way, and the MILD procedure offers a middle ground that’s changing lives. Understanding how MILD stacks up against other common approaches can help you see why it might be the right path for you.

Unlike some treatments that only mask the pain, MILD addresses the root cause of stenosis. And unlike invasive surgery, it’s a minimally invasive option with a much quicker recovery time. Let’s break down the key differences so you can have a more informed conversation with your doctor about your pain management plan.

MILD vs. Traditional Surgery

The thought of traditional open-back surgery can be intimidating, and for good reason. It often involves a significant recovery period and carries a higher risk of complications. The MILD procedure, on the other hand, is a small surgery designed to be much less disruptive. Instead of a large incision, your doctor uses tiny tools to remove small pieces of the thickened ligament that are pressing on your spinal nerves. This creates more space in the spinal canal, relieving the pressure and, in turn, the pain. Because it’s less invasive, MILD has fewer risks of things like infection or nerve damage compared to more extensive surgical treatments.

MILD vs. Non-Surgical Options

Many people first try non-surgical options like Epidural Steroid Injections (ESIs) to manage their pain. While ESIs can provide temporary relief by reducing inflammation, they don’t fix the underlying problem causing the stenosis. They’re a bit like a temporary patch. MILD is different because it directly addresses the cause of the nerve compression. By removing the excess ligament tissue, it provides a lasting solution. In fact, studies have shown that 88% of patients who undergo the MILD procedure are able to avoid open back surgery for at least five years, showing just how effective it can be as a long-term fix.

Comparing Long-Term Results

When you’re choosing a treatment, you want something that will last. The long-term results for the MILD procedure are impressive. Research has shown that MILD is as safe as steroid injections but provides significantly better and more durable pain relief. The impact on daily life can be huge. One study found that a year after the procedure, patients could stand for seven times longer and walk sixteen times farther than they could before. These aren't just numbers; they represent getting back to grocery shopping, walking the dog, or playing with grandkids without debilitating pain.

How to Make the Right Choice for You

Ultimately, the best treatment for you depends on your specific condition, health history, and goals. While learning about your options is a great first step, the most important one is talking with a specialist. A pain management doctor can evaluate your situation, discuss the pros and cons of each approach, and help you determine if you’re a good candidate for the MILD procedure. Don’t hesitate to ask questions and share your concerns. Your doctor is your partner in this process. If you’re ready to explore a lasting solution for your back pain, you can schedule an appointment to get a personalized recommendation.

Related Articles

• MILD Procedure for Spinal Stenosis | ReleviiMed

• MILD Procedure | Releviimed

• MILD Procedure Technique | Minimally Invasive Back Relief

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if I'm a good candidate for the MILD procedure? The MILD procedure is specifically designed for people whose back and leg pain is caused by Lumbar Spinal Stenosis, or LSS. If you experience aching, numbness, or tingling in your lower back, buttocks, or legs that gets worse when you stand or walk but feels better when you sit or lean forward, you might be a candidate. The most definitive way to find out is to have a consultation with a pain management specialist who can review your imaging tests and confirm that a thickened ligament is the source of your nerve compression.

Is the MILD procedure painful? Your comfort is a top priority during the procedure. You will receive a local anesthetic to numb the area, and you may also be given light sedation to help you relax. You will remain awake and able to communicate with your doctor. Afterward, it’s common to feel some soreness at the small incision site for a few days, which most people compare to the feeling of a deep muscle ache. This discomfort is typically mild and manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers.

How is this different from getting a steroid injection? Think of it as fixing the problem versus temporarily masking it. An epidural steroid injection works by reducing inflammation around the pinched nerves, which can provide short-term pain relief. The MILD procedure, however, addresses the root cause of the problem. It physically removes small pieces of the thickened ligament that are crowding your spinal canal, creating more space for the nerves and providing a lasting solution.

What does the recovery process actually involve? Because the procedure is minimally invasive, the recovery is much faster than with traditional surgery. You’ll go home the same day, though you will need someone to drive you. Most people are encouraged to get up and walk around that same day and can return to light activities within a few days. Your doctor will give you specific instructions, but the general idea is to take it easy for about a week and avoid any heavy lifting or strenuous exercise to give your body time to heal properly.

How long can I expect the results to last? The relief from the MILD procedure is designed to be long-lasting. Because it corrects the underlying structural issue by removing the tissue that's causing the compression, the results don't just wear off over time like an injection. Clinical studies have shown that the pain relief is durable, with the majority of patients avoiding the need for more invasive open surgery for at least five years after the procedure.