The MILD® (Minimally Invasive Lumbar Decompression) procedure is a safe, outpatient treatment designed to relieve lower back and leg pain caused by lumbar spinal stenosis. Spinal stenosis occurs when the space inside the spinal canal narrows, often due to thickened ligaments or age-related changes, putting pressure on the spinal nerves. This pressure can cause symptoms such as back pain, leg pain, numbness, tingling, or difficulty standing and walking for long periods of time.

 

During the MILD procedure, a small incision—about the size of a baby aspirin—is made in the lower back. Using specialized instruments and imaging guidance, the physician removes small portions of thickened ligament tissue to create more space in the spinal canal and reduce nerve compression. The procedure does not require implants, stitches, or large surgical cuts, and it typically results in minimal downtime. Many patients experience improved mobility and reduced pain, allowing them to return to daily activities with greater comfort.

 

The MILD procedure is often recommended for patients who have not found relief with physical therapy, medications, or spinal injections but want to avoid more invasive spine surgery.