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When every step hurts, Vertiflex® can help you walk back into life with less pain and more confidence. At Florida Pain Medicine, the team of expert interventional pain management specialists is proud to serve patients at several convenient offices in Wesley Chapel, Tampa, Brandon, Zephyrhills, Riverview, and Winter Haven, Florida. Let them take the pressure off your spine and get you back to your life. Call the nearest office today or schedule your consultation online.
Vertiflex Q&A
What is Vertiflex?
Vertiflex is a minimally invasive outpatient procedure that eases the symptoms of lumbar spinal stenosis. The condition occurs when the spinal canal gradually narrows, pressuring the delicate nerves within it.
This can lead to leg discomfort and numbness, which can disrupt your daily life.
Vertiflex involves placing a small implant (the Superion) between the affected vertebrae to help open the space and relieve the pressure on the spinal nerves.
Who is a candidate for Vertiflex?
The Florida Pain Medicine doctors could recommend Vertiflex for patients experiencing moderate symptoms of lumbar spinal stenosis. These symptoms include:
- Leg pain
- Aching or burning sensation in the lower back or legs
- Numbness
- Weakness that gets worse when walking or standing
- Pain that improves when sitting or bending forward
Candidates usually haven’t found relief from conservative treatments like physical therapy or medication.
How is the Vertiflex procedure performed?
The procedure is minimally invasive and done under a local anesthetic with sedation. Your doctor makes a small incision and uses special instruments to position the Vertiflex Superion device between the spinous processes (the bony points on the back of the vertebrae).
The implant serves as a spacer, keeping the tunnel open for your nerves and spinal cord.
What are the benefits of Vertiflex?
Unlike traditional open spine surgery, Vertiflex offers:
- Faster recovery
- Fewer restrictions during recovery
- Less pain
It’s also important to note that Vertiflex doesn’t significantly alter your spinal anatomy. That means it’s reversible, and you still have the option of spine surgery later.
How long does it take to recover from a Vertiflex procedure?
You can return home the day of your procedure. Recovery involves gradually resuming normal activities with some restrictions on bending or lifting for a few weeks. Many patients experience symptom relief quickly and return to walking and daily routines soon after.
How effective is Vertiflex for lumbar spinal stenosis?
Clinical studies show that Vertiflex is highly effective in relieving leg and back pain. For example, one study showed that it offered long-term relief, with continued pain relief and improved mobility even five years later.
Are you ready to live your life without spinal stenosis pain? Vertiflex at Florida Pain Medicine could be right for you. Phone the nearest office today or reach out online.