MARQUETTE — UP Health System – Marquette has announced it is the first in the Upper Peninsula to offer an innovative, minimally invasive treatment option for patients suffering from a specific type of chronic low back pain known as vertebrogenic pain.

Vertebrogenic pain is chronic, deep, aching lower back pain stemming from damaged vertebral endplates and inflamed bone marrow, specifically transmitted by the basivertebral nerve.

The Intracept® Procedure targets the basivertebral nerve, which transmits pain signals from damaged vertebral endplates to the brain. Using radiofrequency energy, a physician precisely treats the nerve within the vertebrae, preventing it from sending pain signals. The procedure typically takes about an hour and preserves the natural structure of the spine without the use of implants.

Vertebrogenic pain is a distinct form of chronic low back pain caused by damage to the vertebral endplates — the tissue separating each spinal disc from the vertebral body. Over time, everyday wear and tear and disc degeneration can stress and damage the endplates, leading to inflammation and ongoing pain.

“Chronic low back pain can significantly impact a person’s quality of life, especially when conservative treatments fail to provide relief,” said Eric Sturos, MD, a physiatrist, or physical medicine and rehabilitation specialist, at UP Health System – Marquette. “This minimally invasive approach offers a new option for carefully selected patients, helping reduce pain and improve function so they can return to the activities they enjoy.”

Chronic low back pain affects millions of Americans, and a substantial portion of patients may have vertebrogenic pain. Candidates for the procedure typically have experienced chronic low back pain for at least six months, have not improved with conservative treatments such as medication or physical therapy, and show specific signs of vertebral endplate inflammation on MRI.

This outpatient procedure is indicated for patients who have experienced chronic low back pain for at least six months, have not improved with at least six months of conservative care, and whose MRI shows changes consistent with inflammation and damage to the vertebral endplates.

As with any medical procedure, patients should discuss potential risks and benefits with their healthcare provider to determine if this treatment is appropriate for their condition.