Multifidus dysfunction occurs when the deep stabilizing muscles of the lumbar spine lose their ability to contract and coordinate. This leads to segmental instability and is a major contributor to mechanical chronic low back pain. Left untreated, the loss of neuromuscular control places abnormal stress on spinal joints and discs, creating a cycle of pain, instability, and functional decline.
If you’re struggling with persistent back pain or a sensation that your spine “gives way,” Vertrae® Surgery Center in Dayton, Ohio, can help. Led by Kamal Woods, MD, MBA, FAANS, a double spine fellowship–trained neurosurgeon in both orthopedics and neurosurgery, our team specializes in diagnosing and treating multifidus dysfunction with advanced, conservative-first care.
We serve patients across Dayton and Southwest Ohio, offering treatments from motor-control rehabilitation to ReActiv8® restorative neurostimulation, the first and only implantable system designed to retrain the multifidus and restore spinal stability.
The multifidus is a deep spinal muscle that provides stability to each lumbar vertebra. Dysfunction occurs when this muscle loses its ability to contract and coordinate properly, often leading to lumbar instability, a key driver of mechanical chronic low back pain.
At Vertrae®, both Dr. Woods and our ReActiv8® Certified physical therapist can confirm multifidus dysfunction through:
At Vertrae®, in Dayton, Ohio, we take a stepwise, conservative-first approach to treating multifidus dysfunction:
By combining advanced diagnostics with both nonsurgical and restorative therapies, Vertrae® helps our patients break the cycle of pain and restore long-term spinal function.
In many cases, yes, especially when it’s identified and treated early. The multifidus muscle can regain strength, coordination, and proper activation with targeted therapy. For some patients, conservative care such as motor-control retraining is enough to restore stability. However, when dysfunction has become chronic, advanced therapies like ReActiv8® restorative neurostimulation can re-train the muscle at its nerve supply. This helps “reawaken” the multifidus, breaking the pain cycle and sustaining recovery over time.
Recovery depends on the severity of dysfunction and how long symptoms have been present.
The implantation procedure is minimally invasive and performed under anesthesia in our outpatient surgery center. Patients typically go home the same day. Post-procedure discomfort is usually mild, managed with standard pain medication, and far less than traditional open back surgery. Most people resume daily activities within just a few days.
Yes. Restorative neurostimulation is most effective when paired with ongoing physical therapy and exercise. The stimulation retrains the multifidus muscle, while PT helps reinforce proper activation, posture, and movement strategies. This combination ensures the best long-term outcome and lowers the risk of recurrence.
Ideal candidates typically have:
A consultation at Vertrae® will determine if you meet these criteria.
Coverage for ReActiv8® is evolving. Some insurers cover the procedure on a case-by-case basis, especially for patients with documented multifidus dysfunction who haven’t improved with conservative care. At Vertrae®, our team will work directly with your insurance provider, submit medical evidence, and explore financing options if needed—so you can access the treatment without unnecessary barriers.
