Intradiscal Procedures

Medically reviewed by Dr. David L. Greenwald, MD, FAANS, FACS — dual board-certified spine surgeon & neurosurgeon. Last reviewed October 2026.

Some back pain comes from within the disc itself — a degenerated disc or an annular tear. Intradiscal procedures treat that discogenic pain directly, through a thin probe placed into the disc, without open surgery. They're a minimally invasive step between injections and a fusion for the right patient.

Book a Consultation — (602) 566-9500

How an Intradiscal Procedure Works

Procedure Overview

When a disc is the direct source of pain — from internal degeneration or an annular tear — intradiscal procedures treat it from the inside. Through a needle or thin probe placed into the disc under live imaging, the procedure addresses the painful tissue directly. These are minimally invasive, outpatient options that fit between injections and a fusion for carefully selected patients with confirmed discogenic pain.

Conditions We Treat

Am I a Candidate?

Intradiscal procedures are considered for confirmed discogenic pain — pain coming from within the disc — that hasn't responded to conservative care, when imaging and the pain pattern point to a specific disc as the source. They're not for every type of back pain; a careful evaluation determines whether an intradiscal procedure is appropriate or whether another treatment fits better.

Book a Consultation — (602) 566-9500

Benefits & Risks

Expected Outcomes

For well-selected patients with confirmed discogenic pain, intradiscal procedures can provide meaningful relief while avoiding or delaying a larger operation. Results depend heavily on patient selection — which is why a careful evaluation comes first. We're candid about whether an intradiscal procedure is likely to help you.

Life Beyond the Pain

How It's Performed

The procedure is outpatient. Under live imaging, a needle or thin probe is guided into the targeted disc, and the specific intradiscal treatment is performed — addressing the painful tissue within the disc. Local anesthesia, sometimes with light sedation, keeps you comfortable, and you go home the same day.

Recovery & Return to Activity

Recovery is quick because there's no open surgery. Because results depend on confirming the disc as the true pain source, careful patient selection is what makes these procedures worthwhile.

Insurance, Out-of-Network & Cost

Cost and coverage shouldn't stand between you and relief. Desert Spine and Pain welcomes out-of-network patients and will walk you through what your evaluation and treatment are likely to involve before anything is scheduled — so there are no surprises. We'll help you understand your benefits and options, whether you're using insurance, paying out-of-pocket, or being treated under a personal-injury claim.

Proudly Serving the Greater Phoenix, Arizona Area

Why Choose Our Spine Specialists in Phoenix

Choosing the right spine specialist in Phoenix matters. At Desert Spine and Pain, your care is led by Dr. David L. Greenwald, MD, FAANS, FACS — a physician who is both a board-certified spine surgeon and a neurosurgeon. That dual expertise is rare, and it means one expert can guide you across the full spectrum of care — from a simple injection to complex surgery — and recommend what is genuinely best for you, whether you need a spine doctor for conservative care or a surgeon when surgery is truly the answer.

Intradiscal Procedures: Frequently Asked Questions