Candidacy and eligibility for non-surgical disc treatment rest on imaging-confirmed annular tears in viable discs, documented failure of conservative care, and pain pattern that correlates with the imaging. The evaluation includes recent MRI, focused exam, and history. Honest exclusion is part of the process.
Key Takeaways
- Candidacy = imaging-confirmed annular tears in viable discs.
- Documented conservative-care failure strengthens the case.
- Pain pattern must correlate with imaging.
- Severe instability, end-stage degeneration, fracture, infection are exclusions.
- Honest exclusion protects patients.
What This Guide Covers
- What imaging criteria support candidacy?
- What conservative-care history supports candidacy?
- What pain pattern supports candidacy?
- What excludes candidacy?
What imaging criteria support candidacy?
Imaging criteria include discrete annular tears (HIZ on MRI), reasonably preserved disc height, and findings consistent with the symptom pattern. Severe disc collapse, vacuum phenomenon, or end-stage Modic changes shift candidacy elsewhere.
What conservative-care history supports candidacy?
Documented attempts at structured PT, posture and ergonomic correction, medication trials, and at least one round of interventional injections strengthen the case. Six to twelve months of structured care is the typical benchmark.
What pain pattern supports candidacy?
Mechanical, positional pain that worsens with sitting and forward flexion, sit-to-stand difficulty, and predictable triggers fits the disc-driven pattern. Non-positional, diffuse, or systemic pain points elsewhere.
What excludes candidacy?
Severe instability requiring stabilization, end-stage disc collapse, fracture, infection, tumor, and pure facet or sacroiliac pain are exclusions. Honest exclusion protects patients from procedures that will not help them.
Clinical Note
Candidacy is the deliverable of the evaluation. Our clinical staff is direct about whether a patient fits — yes, no, or needs more imaging. Patients who fit benefit from the procedure when paired with the recovery work. Patients who do not fit are referred toward what does. The Valor team treats both outcomes as legitimate results of the evaluation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I find out if I am a candidate?
Schedule a consultation with imaging review.
What if I am unsure about my conservative-care history?
Bring whatever records you have; the intake team helps reconstruct the timeline.
Are exclusions permanent?
Some exclusions can change with imaging updates or additional diagnostic work.
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.
