Back pain clinic Munich
Conservative, minimally invasive and surgical treatments at the spine center
Munich East
Cornelia Lindinger, 46, secretary from Glonn (Bavaria):
A year ago, I developed terrible back pain and was soon almost completely immobilized. The pain was deep in my back and radiated down my left leg. Eventually, even my foot went numb. The doctors suspected a herniated disc. I received a lot of painkillers, injections, and extensive physical therapy. But none of it helped; in fact, it got worse. In the end, I couldn't even drive or move without pain.
Back pain: Causes and treatment options
Because my symptoms were very severe, I had to stay in the hospital for three days. After that, however, it got better and better, and after three weeks I was feeling well again. Since then, I've been able to move around without any problems – and even romp around with my dog again.
Dr. Samer Ismail: Many patients are unaware that we have a large joint on the left and right sides of our pelvic bones: It is formed by the iliac bones and the sacrum, an extension of the spine. This sacroiliac joint is only passively mobile. Its function is to absorb the forces acting on the pelvis during walking, using its strong ligaments. Over time, these ligaments can weaken, causing the joint to lose its stability.
Dr. med. Samer Ismail
Since 2012, we have been certified as a highly specialized spine center throughout Germany and at the WZMO we treat all acute and chronic diseases and pain conditions of the spine.
Consequences and diagnosis: Munich Clinic
Munich East Spine Center
The symptoms described by patients often make it difficult to distinguish whether the intervertebral discs, the lumbar spine, or the sacroiliac joint are the cause. X-rays and MRI scans are also of little help in these cases. Therefore, we make the diagnosis using special injections: First, we inject a local anesthetic into the lumbar spine. If the pain subsides, the cause lies there. If not, we inject the anesthetic directly into the sacroiliac joint. If the patient experiences temporary relief afterward, we know that the nerves in this area were the source of the pain.
Minimally invasive therapies for the lumbar spine in Munich at the WZMO
If the pain persists after more than six months and medication and physiotherapy prove ineffective, we now have a new, minimally invasive treatment method available. Using a very thin cannula and X-ray guidance, we insert a special probe directly into the sacroiliac joint. There, we use radiofrequency waves and heat energy to block the nerve pathways. The key is that, thanks to a new technology, the radio waves generate a temperature of only 60 degrees Celsius in the tissue, instead of the previous 90 degrees. This interrupts the transmission of nerve impulses, and the patient becomes pain-free.
The nerve itself is not destroyed. This is important because otherwise the cells would regenerate uncontrollably, and the pain could subsequently be more severe than before.
Thanks to this new treatment option, our patients remain pain-free for two to three years because the pain memory is deactivated. The success rate of radiofrequency treatment is over 80 percent. If necessary, repeat treatment of the sacroiliac joint is also possible. Some patients, however, remain permanently pain-free after the first treatment.
Costs of surgery on the sacroiliac joint
Depending on the severity of the individual problems, the approximately one-hour procedure on the sacroiliac joint can be performed on an outpatient or inpatient basis. Many health insurance companies cover the costs of around €2,800. Patients should check with their insurer beforehand.
New patients are also welcome: Your Center for Spinal Medicine in Munich
Are you looking for a clinic in Munich due to back pain? At our spine center, you will be welcomed by a friendly and exceptionally well-organized team and receive expert advice and treatment from specialists in neurosurgery. To offer you the best possible therapy, we first take a detailed medical history and understand the progression of your symptoms. Therefore, it is important to know this beforehand.
a comprehensive anamnesis interview
The identification of pre-existing conditions, for example, using existing X-rays or diagnoses from your family doctor. Please bring along any documents you have available.
the use of imaging techniques (MRI)
If necessary, the use of electroneurography and lumbar puncture
Are you most afraid of the "tube"? Don't worry, we completely understand. Many patients initially feel uneasy when a CT scanner is used. At our practice in Munich, we therefore use state-of-the-art technology that not only offers you more space than other machines, but also allows you to relax while listening to music or watching videos. And a friendly smile and an encouraging word are always part of our daily routine.
Acute back pain? Need advice? We're ready!
Are you already suffering from back pain and suspect a herniated disc or lumbago? Then don't wait too long, contact us as soon as possible. Book your appointment online or call us during our office hours.
