Who Offers the Intracept Procedure in Ann Arbor, MI?

The Intracept procedure is a minimally invasive treatment option for chronic low back pain that may come from damaged vertebral endplates and irritation of the basivertebral nerve. At Michigan Pain Specialists, we focus on identifying the true source of pain before recommending any treatment. When back pain continues for months and does not improve with conservative care, our team may evaluate whether Intracept is appropriate.

This procedure is different from general back pain treatments because it targets a specific nerve inside the vertebrae that can transmit pain signals from the spine.

The Intracept procedure may be considered for patients with:
• Chronic low back pain
• Pain linked to vertebral endplate changes
• Limited relief from prior conservative care
• Difficulty standing, bending, walking, or sitting comfortably

Our team in Ann Arbor, MI, works closely with patients to create a personalized Plan of Care focused on relief, mobility, and long-term function.

The Intracept procedure works by targeting the basivertebral nerve, which may be responsible for sending chronic low back pain signals from inside the vertebrae. At Michigan Pain Specialists, our team uses a careful diagnostic approach to determine whether this type of pain is contributing to a patient’s symptoms. The goal is to treat the source of pain rather than only managing surface-level discomfort.

During the procedure, a small specialized instrument is guided into the affected vertebra. Radiofrequency energy is then used to heat and disable the pain-transmitting nerve, helping reduce ongoing pain signals.

Key treatment goals include the following:
• Addressing vertebrogenic low back pain
• Reducing pain signals from the spine
• Supporting better movement and daily function
• Helping patients return to normal activities

We provide Intracept procedure treatment in Ann Arbor, MI, with a personalized approach designed around each patient’s symptoms, imaging, and care needs.

A candidate for the Intracept procedure is usually someone with chronic low back pain that has lasted for several months and has not improved enough with conservative treatment. At Michigan Pain Specialists, our team evaluates each patient carefully because not all back pain comes from the same source. Intracept is generally considered when pain appears to be vertebrogenic, meaning it may come from changes in the vertebral endplates.

Our team may review your symptoms, medical history, prior treatments, physical exam findings, and imaging results before recommending this procedure.

You may be a candidate if you have:
• Chronic low back pain
• Pain that affects daily activity
• Limited improvement with prior care
• MRI findings linked to vertebral endplate changes
• Pain that worsens with bending, sitting, or standing

At our Ann Arbor, MI, location, our team focuses on creating a customized plan of care for patients with difficult-to-treat pain conditions.

Recovery time after the Intracept procedure can vary from patient to patient, but many people are able to return to light daily activities within a short period after treatment. At Michigan Pain Specialists, we explain recovery expectations clearly so patients understand what to expect before and after the procedure. Since every patient’s pain history, activity level, and overall health are different, results and recovery timelines may vary.

Some patients may notice gradual improvement over several weeks as the treated nerve stops sending pain signals. Our team provides follow-up guidance to help support safe healing and improved function.

Recovery may include:
• Temporary soreness after the procedure
• Gradual return to normal activity
• Follow-up visits as recommended
• Activity guidance based on comfort level
• Continued monitoring of pain relief and mobility

Our Ann Arbor, MI, team focuses on helping patients move forward with a personalized recovery plan designed for long-term back pain relief.

At Michigan Pain Specialists in Ann Arbor, MI, we offer personalized Intracept procedure treatment for patients struggling with chronic low back pain. Our board-certified doctors, Dr. Louis Bojrab, MD, FIPP, Dr. John Chatas, MD, FIPP, and Dr. Edward Washabaugh, MD, FIPP, focus on difficult-to-treat pain conditions and work to identify whether the basivertebral nerve may be contributing to ongoing symptoms. Our goal is to help patients find a clearer path toward relief when previous care has not provided enough improvement.

We reflect our commitment to compassionate care, fast consultations, and customized treatment planning. We serve patients from Ann Arbor, MI, Adrian, MI, and nearby communities.

Our approach may include:
• Detailed pain evaluation
• Review of imaging and symptoms
• Personalized Plan of Care
• Interventional pain management options
• Follow-up focused on function and relief

If chronic low back pain is limiting your daily life, our team at Michigan Pain Specialists is here to help you explore whether Intracept may be right for you. For more information, contact us or request an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 710 Avis Dr #200, Ann Arbor, MI 48108. We serve patients from Ann Arbor MI, Saline MI, Ypsilanti MI, Dexter MI, and surrounding areas.