10/28/2026
Minimally invasive lumbar decompression significantly improved walking tolerance in patients with lumbar spinal stenosis.
The MOTION randomized controlled trial studied patients with lumbar spinal stenosis and neurogenic claudication caused by thickening of the ligamentum flavum.
Patients treated with percutaneous image-guided lumbar decompression, also known as the mild® procedure, were evaluated using pain, disability, physical function, and an objective Walking Tolerance Test.
The improvements were durable. At 3 years, walking tolerance had improved 274% from baseline, alongside significant improvements in back pain, leg pain, disability, and physical function.
Longer-term follow-up showed the benefit continuing: at 5 years, walking time was 326% higher than baseline.
The findings support minimally invasive lumbar decompression as an effective treatment option for appropriately selected patients with symptomatic lumbar spinal stenosis and neurogenic claudication.
📌 Educational only. Speak with a qualified physician to determine whether minimally invasive lumbar decompression is appropriate for your diagnosis and symptoms.
(Deer et al., Pain Practice; MOTION Trial)
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