What Is the MILD® Procedure?

The MILD® (Minimally Invasive Lumbar Decompression) procedure is a safe, outpatient treatment designed to relieve pain and improve mobility for patients suffering from lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS).

  • Lumbar spinal stenosis occurs when the spinal canal in the lower back narrows, often due to thickened ligaments, which can compress nerves. This pressure can cause:
  • Lower back pain
  • Leg pain
  • Numbness or tingling
  • Weakness in the legs
  • Difficulty standing or walking for long periods

The MILD® procedure reduces this pressure—without major surgery.

How the MILD® Procedure Works

Over time, a ligament in the spine called the ligamentum flavum can become thickened, narrowing the spinal canal.

During the MILD® procedure:

  • A small incision (about the size of a baby aspirin) is made in the lower back
  • Specialized tools are used to remove small portions of thickened ligament tissue
  • No implants are placed
  • No stitches are typically required
  • The spine remains stable

By removing the excess tissue, space is restored in the spinal canal, relieving nerve compression.

Benefits of the MILD® Procedure

✔ Minimally invasive

✔ Performed through a tiny incision

✔ No general anesthesia required (often done with local anesthesia and light sedation)

✔ Outpatient procedure

✔ Short recovery time

✔ No implants or hardware

✔ Preserves natural spinal structure

Many patients experience improved walking ability and reduced leg and back pain.

Who Is a Candidate?

You may be a candidate for the MILD® procedure if you:

  • Have been diagnosed with lumbar spinal stenosis

  • Experience leg pain that worsens when standing or walking

  • Feel relief when bending forward or sitting

  • Have not found adequate relief from conservative treatments such as:

    • Physical therapy

    • Medications

    • Epidural steroid injections

A consultation and imaging studies (such as MRI) are required to determine eligibility.

What to Expect

Before the Procedure

  • A full evaluation and imaging review
  • Discussion of medical history and symptoms
  • Instructions regarding medications

During the Procedure

  • Typically takes less than one hour
  • Performed in a surgical center or outpatient facility
  • Minimal discomfort

After the Procedure

  • Most patients go home the same day
  • Light activity is encouraged
  • Gradual return to normal activities
  • Follow-up appointment to monitor progress

Why Choose MILD® Instead of Traditional Surgery?

Traditional spine surgery may involve:

  • Large incisions
  • Removal of bone
  • Hardware placement
  • Longer recovery time

The MILD® procedure is designed to provide relief without major surgery, making it an excellent option for patients seeking a less invasive solution.

If lumbar spinal stenosis is limiting your mobility and quality of life, the MILD® procedure may help.

Contact us today to schedule your consultation and find out if you are a candidate.