What Patients Should Know Before the mild® Procedure

What Patients Should Know Before a mild® Procedure

Chronic lower back pain can make even simple daily activities feel exhausting. For many patients, especially older adults, the pain may be caused by lumbar spinal stenosis—a condition that narrows the spinal canal and puts pressure on the nerves. When conservative treatments like physical therapy, medications, or injections no longer provide enough relief, the mild® procedure (Minimally Invasive Lumbar Decompression) may be an option.

If you’re considering a mild® procedure, understanding what it is, who it’s for, and what to expect beforehand can help you feel more confident and prepared.

What Is the mild® Procedure?

The mild® procedure is a minimally invasive, outpatient treatment designed to relieve pressure on spinal nerves caused by lumbar spinal stenosis. It focuses on removing small pieces of thickened ligament tissue—specifically the ligamentum flavum—that contribute to nerve compression.

Unlike traditional spine surgery, the mild® procedure:

• Does not require general anesthesia
• Uses a tiny incision (about the size of a baby aspirin)
• Preserves bone and spinal stability
• Is typically completed in under an hour

Because it is minimally invasive, the procedure is associated with a lower risk profile and shorter recovery time compared to open surgery.

Who Is a Candidate for the mild® Procedure?

The mild® procedure is not for everyone, but it can be especially helpful for patients who:

• Have been diagnosed with lumbar spinal stenosis
• Experience neurogenic claudication (pain, heaviness, numbness, or weakness in the legs when standing or walking)
• Feel relief when sitting or bending forward
• Have not found sufficient relief from conservative treatments

Your pain management or spine specialist will use imaging studies such as MRI or CT scans to determine whether thickened ligament tissue is contributing to your symptoms.

What to Discuss With Your Doctor Before the Procedure

Before moving forward, it’s important to have a thorough discussion with your provider. Topics to cover include:

• Your full medical history and current medications
• Previous spine treatments or surgeries
• Expected benefits and realistic outcomes
• Potential risks or complications
• Alternative treatment options

Being open about your symptoms, activity limitations, and goals can help your provider determine whether mild® is the right fit for you.

How to Prepare for a mild® Procedure

Preparation for the mild® procedure is usually straightforward. Your care team may ask you to:

• Temporarily stop certain medications, such as blood thinners
• Arrange for someone to drive you home after the procedure
• Avoid eating or drinking for a short period beforehand
• Wear comfortable clothing on the day of the procedure

Most patients do not need extensive preoperative testing, and hospital stays are not required.

What Happens During the Procedure?

The mild® procedure is performed under local anesthesia with light sedation. Using real-time X-ray guidance, your physician inserts specialized instruments through a tiny incision to remove excess ligament tissue that is compressing the nerves.

Because the procedure does not involve implants, stitches, or structural changes to the spine, it is considered tissue-sparing and low impact.

Recovery and What to Expect Afterward

One of the biggest advantages of the mild® procedure is the relatively quick recovery. Many patients:

• Go home the same day
• Resume light activities within a few days
• Experience gradual improvement in walking tolerance and leg symptoms

Some soreness at the incision site is normal, but serious complications are uncommon. Your provider will give you specific post-procedure instructions and let you know when you can safely return to normal activities.

Potential Benefits of the mild® Procedure

Patients often choose the mild® procedure because it:

• Addresses the root cause of nerve compression
• Reduces pain and leg symptoms
• Improves mobility and quality of life
• Avoids major surgery and long recovery times

While results vary, many patients report meaningful improvements in function and daily comfort.

Is the mild® Procedure Right for You?

Choosing the right treatment for chronic back and leg pain is a highly individual decision. The mild® procedure may be a good option if you are seeking a minimally invasive solution and want to avoid more extensive surgery.

A consultation with a qualified pain management or spine specialist is the best way to determine whether mild® fits your condition, lifestyle, and long-term goals.

Final Thoughts

Living with lumbar spinal stenosis can feel limiting, but treatment options continue to evolve. Understanding what to expect before a mild® procedure can help you take an informed, confident step toward pain relief and improved mobility.

If chronic back or leg pain is interfering with your quality of life, talk with your provider about whether the mild® procedure may be right for you.