Could Basivertebral Nerve Ablation Be Right for You? A Patient’s Guide

You’ve tried physical therapy. You’ve had the injections. You’ve taken the medications. And yet… the low back pain is still there.

Maybe you’ve been told you’re “not a candidate” for surgery, or that you just need to keep managing it. But living like this, unable to sit, walk, or sleep comfortably, doesn’t feel like much of a life.

If this sounds familiar, it may be time to learn about a breakthrough that’s changing lives right here in Dayton: basivertebral nerve (BVN) ablation.

How Do You Know If You’re a Candidate?

This treatment isn’t for every kind of back pain, but if the following sound like your story, it’s worth exploring:

  • Low back pain lasting 6 months or more
  • Tried at least three treatments (PT, meds, injections) without lasting relief
  • MRI shows Modic changes (a sign of disc and bone inflammation)
  • Pain is mostly in your lower back, not shooting down your legs
  • Told surgery is “too much” or not the right next step

This type of pain, called vertebrogenic pain, is often misdiagnosed or overlooked. Now there’s a proven way to treat it at the source.

What Exactly Is BVN Ablation?

It’s a minimally invasive, same-day procedure that takes less than an hour.

Here’s what happens:

  • A small probe is guided into the vertebrae (through a tiny incision, no stitches)
  • Radiofrequency energy is used to quiet the basivertebral nerve,  the nerve responsible for carrying pain signals from the inflamed endplates of your spine
  • The surrounding bone and discs remain untouched; no fusion, no screws, no hardware
  • You go home the same day and begin recovery at home

Most importantly, many patients report life-changing pain relief in the weeks and months that follow.

What Results Can You Expect?

This isn’t a quick patch or a band-aid. Studies show BVN ablation provides durable relief, even 5 years out.

Patients often report:

  • Less daily pain
  • Better sleep and mobility
  • Fewer pain medications
  • Return to the activities they love, whether it’s work, hobbies, or family life

Imagine This…

Meet L., 58, from Beavercreek. She battled low back pain for more than two years. She did everything right, PT, cortisone shots, medications, but nothing lasted.

Her MRI showed Modic changes, so we recommended BVN ablation. Today, L. is back in her garden, walking with her husband, and sitting through church without shifting in pain.

She didn’t need a fusion. She just needed the right diagnosis and the right procedure.

Common Questions, Answered

Is it covered by insurance?

Yes. BVN ablation is FDA-cleared and covered by Medicare and most major insurance plans. We’ll confirm your coverage before moving forward.

Is it safe?

Yes. It has a strong safety record, with no hardware, no fusion, and minimal downtime.

How long does it last?

Studies show durable results lasting 5 years or more. The basivertebral nerve does not regenerate after ablation.

Ready to Find Out If It’s Right for You?

At Vertrae®, we specialize in helping patients who feel like they’ve “tried everything” without success. Dr. Kamal Woods, a board-certified neurosurgeon and national leader in minimally invasive spine care, will review your MRI, walk you through your options, and help you find the path that makes sense for you.

Whether BVN ablation is your answer or not, you’ll leave with clarity and hope.

You Don’t Have to Live With the Pain

If you’re searching for a new treatment for chronic low back pain in Dayton, Ohio, one that offers real relief without fusion, Vertrae® can help.

Schedule your consultation today and find out if BVN ablation could be the step forward you’ve been waiting for.

Call us at (844) 255-2225 

Online: [Request a Consultation]

Visit: 4501 Lyons Rd, Miamisburg, OH 45342

Dr. Kamal Woods
Medically reviewed by Dr. Kamal Woods

Dr. Kamal Woods, MD, MBA, FAANS is a board-certified neurosurgeon and the founder of Vertrae® in Miamisburg, Ohio, with over 15 years of experience. He specializes in treating degenerative spine conditions, including herniated discs, spinal stenosis, degenerative disc disease and sciatica, through a full spectrum of care from conservative therapies and injections to robotic assisted, minimally invasive spine surgery. Known for his motion-preserving approach (MotionFirst), and patient-first philosophy, Dr. Woods is dedicated to helping patients across Dayton and Southwest Ohio find lasting relief from chronic neck or back pain and return to confident movement.
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