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Interspinous Spacers

What Are Interspinous Spacers?

Interspinous spacers are small, implantable devices designed to relieve spinal stenosis, a condition where narrowing of the spine compresses nerves, leading to pain, numbness, and weakness in the back and legs. These spacers are placed between the spinous processes, the bony protrusions along the spine, to gently create space and reduce nerve pressure.

By acting like a car jack, interspinous spacers help restore room for nerves to move freely, offering pain relief without major surgery. Common procedures using this technology include Vertiflex™ by Boston Scientific and The Minuteman® Procedure by Spinal Simplicity.

How the Procedure Works

Interspinous spacer placement is a minimally invasive outpatient procedure, meaning you can return home the same day. A small incision is made in the back, and the device is carefully inserted between the spinous processes. Once positioned, the spacer is gently expanded, lifting and stabilizing the affected area to prevent nerve compression.

Recovery is quicker than traditional spinal surgery, with most patients experiencing improved mobility and reduced pain within a few weeks. Many people resume normal activities much sooner than with other spinal procedures.

Choose Louisiana Pain Specialists for Your Interspinous Spacers

If chronic back and leg pain are limiting your daily life, interspinous spacers could be the solution you’ve been looking for. These minimally invasive devices provide lasting relief without the need for extensive surgery. Schedule a consultation today to see if this procedure is right for you.