Back pain treatment in Staten Island: targeted relief for lumbar and lower back pain
Back pain may range from a dull, constant ache to sudden, sharp pain that makes movement difficult. If you have been living with back pain for weeks, months, or years, you know how it may affect every aspect of life.
At our Staten Island pain clinic, Dr. Kyle Mele provides treatments that address back pain at its source.
What may be causing your chronic back pain?
Back pain may originate from multiple structures. The only way to know what may be causing your specific pain is through an evaluation. Some common causes include:
- Disc problems: Herniated or bulging discs may press on spinal nerves, causing pain that radiates into the buttocks and legs (sciatica). Degenerative disc disease may cause discs to lose height and cushioning over time.
- Facet joint arthritis: The small joints along the back of the spine may develop arthritis, causing pain that worsens with standing, walking, or bending backward.
- SI joint dysfunction: The sacroiliac joint connects the spine to the pelvis. When it becomes inflamed, it may cause lower back and buttock pain that can mimic disc problems.
- Spinal stenosis: Narrowing of the spinal canal may put pressure on nerves, causing pain, numbness, or weakness that is often worse with walking and better with sitting.
What back pain treatments are available?
The appropriate treatment for your situation is determined by the doctor after evaluation. Based on your symptoms, imaging, and exam findings, he will recommend the approach that may work for you. Some options may include:
Lumbar epidural injections
Anti-inflammatory medication delivered directly to the area around compressed nerves may provide relief for disc-related pain and sciatica.
Facet joint injections
For arthritis-related back pain, targeted injections may reduce inflammation and help confirm the diagnosis.
SI joint injections
When the sacroiliac joint may be the source of pain, injections may provide relief and guide further treatment.
Radiofrequency ablation
For confirmed facet or SI joint pain, ablation procedures use controlled heat to interrupt pain signals.
Intracept and MILD procedures
For specific types of chronic back pain, these minimally invasive procedures may offer options when standard treatments have not worked.
Remember, the only way to know which treatment may help is through a proper evaluation with the specialist.
Why consider interventional treatment before surgery?
Interventional treatments are minimally invasive, require shorter recovery time, and can be repeated if needed. They may provide significant relief while preserving surgery as an option if it becomes necessary later.
Some advantages may include
- Minimally invasive
- Quick recovery
- Can be repeated if needed
- Do not eliminate surgery as a future option if needed
- Often covered by insurance
Who is the back pain specialist in Staten Island?
Dr. Kyle Mele provides comprehensive back pain evaluation and treatment at our Staten Island location. As a board-certified anesthesiologist with interventional pain training, he specializes in minimally invasive procedures for chronic back pain.
Where is the pain clinic located?
We are located at 4236 Hylan Blvd in Staten Island, right in the Eltingville Shopping Center. There is free parking available. We are open Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 7 PM. You can call us at 929-425-0017 to schedule. No referral required.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need an MRI before my appointment?
Dr. Mele will determine during your evaluation whether imaging is needed. If you have recent imaging, bring it to your appointment.
How long do the procedures take?
Most procedures take 30 minutes or less. Plan to be at the clinic for about an hour total.
Will I need multiple treatments?
It depends on your condition. Some patients experience significant relief from one procedure; others may benefit from a series of treatments. Dr. Mele will discuss expectations during your evaluation.
Are these procedures covered by insurance?
Most interventional procedures are covered by insurance when medically necessary. We verify your coverage before scheduling treatment.
Dealing with back pain?
