Back pain that persists for years usually has a structural source that conservative care cannot reach. The most common source is an unrepaired annular tear in a disc. Sealing the tear addresses the lesion that has continued generating pain. Imaging plus history identifies the persistent driver.
Key Takeaways
- Years-long back pain usually has a structural source.
- Annular tears are the most common driver in this population.
- Conservative care manages symptoms but does not seal tears.
- Imaging plus history identifies the persistent source.
- The fibrin procedure addresses the tear directly.
What This Guide Covers
- Why does back pain last years?
- What are the common structural sources?
- How is the persistent driver identified?
- How is the driver treated?
Why does back pain last years?
Back pain lasts years when the underlying lesion remains active and untreated. Conservative care manages symptoms while the lesion persists. Without an intervention that addresses the lesion itself, the pain cycle continues.
What are the common structural sources?
Common sources include annular tears, disc herniations that have not resorbed, facet joint pathology, and sacroiliac joint dysfunction. The relative contribution of each varies; multi-driver patterns are common in long-standing pain.
How is the persistent driver identified?
Identification rests on current imaging, focused exam, and pain pattern. The Valor team reads the imaging looking for the most common drivers and correlates findings with symptoms. The output is a working diagnosis.
How is the driver treated?
For annular tears: the fibrin procedure. For facet pain: injections or RFA. For SI pain: SI-targeted interventions. Treating the actual driver is what changes the pain trajectory.
Clinical Note
Patients who have lived with back pain for years sometimes arrive expecting we will tell them nothing can be done. Our clinical staff treats long-standing pain as treatable in most cases — provided we can identify the driver. Annular tears do not heal on their own in most patients, and the procedure can address them at any duration. The Valor team has helped patients with pain measured in decades; duration is a factor but rarely a barrier.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it too late if I have had pain for ten years?
No. The procedure has helped patients with pain durations measured in decades.
Can multiple drivers exist at once?
Yes. The evaluation identifies layered drivers and recommends accordingly.
What if my imaging is older?
Updated imaging is usually needed to assess current state.
This content is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It is not a substitute for evaluation by a qualified physician. Treatment decisions depend on your individual medical history and clinical findings. Schedule a consultation to discuss whether the procedure is right for you.
