Overview
Disc related low back pain can be difficult to manage because intervertebral discs have limited blood supply and heal slowly. Pain may worsen with sitting bending lifting or prolonged posture and can persist even when nerve compression is not present. In some patients the disc itself becomes a source of pain due to internal disruption inflammation or degeneration.
Intra discal therapies involve delivering targeted treatment directly into the affected disc. These treatments aim to reduce inflammation modify painful disc tissue and support healing in selected cases. They are typically considered when symptoms persist despite physiotherapy medication activity modification and other conservative measures.
Careful clinical assessment and imaging are essential before considering any intra discal procedure to ensure the disc is the most likely source of pain.
Who This Treatment Helps
Intra discal therapies may be suitable for people with
• Persistent low back pain suspected to originate from a specific disc
• Disc degeneration or internal disc disruption confirmed on imaging
• Pain worsened by sitting bending or prolonged flexion
• Limited improvement with physiotherapy medication or manual therapy
• Disc related pain without significant nerve compression
• Symptoms that interfere with work daily activities or quality of life
A consultation is required to confirm suitability.
What Are Intra Discal Therapies
Intra discal therapies refer to a group of minimally invasive procedures performed within the intervertebral disc using imaging guidance. Depending on the technique used the aim may be to reduce inflammation modify painful disc tissue or support disc stability and healing.
The procedure is usually performed under local anaesthetic with or without sedation. Imaging guidance such as fluoroscopy or CT is used to ensure accurate needle placement. These treatments do not reverse disc degeneration but may help manage pain and improve function in carefully selected patients.
After the Procedure
It is normal to experience
• Mild soreness or pressure in the lower back
• Temporary stiffness
• Gradual improvement over days to weeks
Your consultant may advise
• Avoiding heavy lifting for a short period
• Gradual return to normal activities
• Continuing physiotherapy to support spinal mobility and strength
• Monitoring symptoms and reporting any concerns
Some patients notice early improvement while others experience gradual change as the disc settles.
Benefits
• Minimally invasive approach
• Targets disc related pain directly
• May reduce inflammation and discomfort
• Can support improved mobility and daily function
• May reduce reliance on pain medication
• Often performed as a day case procedure
Safety Note
Intra discal therapies are only offered following consultant led assessment and appropriate imaging. Please inform your consultant about medications allergies diabetes pregnancy recent infection or bleeding disorders. You may need someone to drive you home depending on sedation used.