Restorative neurostimulation for chronic low back pain using ReActiv8® in a patient with a large lumbar disc herniation

Abstract

This case report presents the therapeutic effect of restorative neurostimulation (ReActiv8®) on chronic low back pain (CLBP) in a 44-year-old male, where the primary etiology was not lumbar disc herniation (LDH). Despite presenting with LDH at L4-L5, clinical evaluations suggested lumbar microinstability and multifidus muscle dysfunction as the main contributors to his pain, without radicular symptoms. The patient had a 12-year history of CLBP, resistant to conventional treatments like physiotherapy, medications, and epidural injections. Opting for a minimally invasive approach, he underwent implantation of ReActiv8®, focusing on rehabilitating the impaired multifidus muscle. Over a 12-month therapy period, significant improvements were noted in pain levels, functionality, and quality of life, leading to a full return to work. Interestingly, follow-up imaging showed not only a substantial reduction in pain but also an unexpected resolution of the LDH at L4-L5, enhanced lumbar lordosis, and improved disc hydration, despite minor progressing Modic changes. This case underlines the potential of restorative neurostimulation in CLBP management, especially when the pain origin is non-discogenic. It emphasizes the importance of accurate pain source identification in CLBP treatment and suggests further research into the efficacy and applicability of neurostimulation in similar clinical scenarios.