Chronic low back pain can make everyday activities difficult, especially when medication and physical therapy haven’t provided enough relief. For some adults, problems with the muscles that support the spine may contribute to ongoing pain.
At Pain Consultants of East Tennessee, our team can evaluate whether ReActiv8 restorative neurostimulation may be an appropriate treatment option.
What Is ReActiv8?
ReActiv8 is an implanted system that stimulates the nerves controlling the multifidus muscle. This deep muscle helps support and stabilize the lower spine.
When the multifidus doesn’t work properly, it may contribute to chronic low back pain. ReActiv8 produces repeated muscle contractions during scheduled therapy sessions to help restore muscle control.
Rather than providing immediate relief whenever pain occurs, this treatment works gradually through consistent use.
Who May Be a Candidate for ReActiv8?
ReActiv8 is intended for adults with difficult-to-treat chronic low back pain associated with multifidus muscle dysfunction. A clinician must confirm that dysfunction through imaging or physiological testing.
Potential candidates have also:
- Tried pain medication and physical therapy without adequate improvement.
- Been evaluated and found unsuitable for corrective spine surgery.
- Demonstrated that they can operate the therapy system.
ReActiv8 does require an implant procedure. Being unsuitable for corrective spine surgery does not mean that treatment involves no surgery.
Because low back pain has many possible causes, a thorough evaluation is essential. Your clinician will review your symptoms, treatment history, examination findings, and any relevant tests before recommending an approach.
How Does Daily ReActiv8 Therapy Work?
The system includes a small implanted pulse generator and two leads. The leads deliver stimulation to the nerves that control the multifidus muscle.
Your clinician programs the stimulation settings. You then use an external activator to start and stop prescribed therapy sessions.
A typical schedule involves two 30-minute sessions each day while resting. Following your prescribed routine and attending follow-up visits are important parts of treatment.
What Results Can You Expect?
Some people experience less pain and better function as treatment progresses. However, improvement takes time, and results vary.
Your care team will monitor your progress and discuss how therapy fits into your broader treatment plan. ReActiv8 does not guarantee relief or eliminate the need for other care.
After implantation, you will also receive instructions about wound care, activity restrictions, and when to begin therapy.
What Are the Risks?
As with other implanted treatments, ReActiv8 carries risks. These include infection, bleeding, nerve injury, movement of the leads, and device problems. Pain may persist or worsen, and some complications may require another procedure.
Your clinician will explain the potential benefits and risks so you can make an informed decision.
Learn Whether ReActiv8 May Be Right for You
If chronic low back pain continues to interfere with daily life, an evaluation can help clarify its possible causes and your treatment options.
Call Pain Consultants of East Tennessee at (865) 579-0552 to schedule a consultation and ask whether ReActiv8 may be appropriate for you.
