Discover how ReActiv8 restorative neurostimulation, offered by Dr. Ryan Aschenbrener at OrthoNC, may help patients with chronic mechanical low back pain improve spinal muscle function and regain mobility.
Living with chronic low back pain can make everyday activities challenging, from walking and exercising to working and spending time with family. For patients who have tried traditional treatments without lasting relief, finding another solution can feel frustrating.
At OrthoNC, we are committed to offering innovative treatment options that address the underlying causes of musculoskeletal pain. Dr. Ryan Aschenbrener, a Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (PM&R) and Interventional Spine specialist, now offers ReActiv8 Restorative Neurostimulation, an implantable therapy designed to help restore the function of muscles responsible for stabilizing the lower spine.
Unlike treatments that primarily focus on managing pain symptoms, ReActiv8 takes a restorative approach by targeting muscle dysfunction that may contribute to chronic mechanical low back pain.
What is ReActiv8 Restorative Neurostimulation?
ReActiv8 is an FDA-approved implantable neurostimulation system designed for certain adults experiencing chronic mechanical low back pain associated with dysfunction of the multifidus muscles.
The multifidus muscles are deep muscles located along the spine that play an important role in maintaining spinal stability and supporting everyday movement. When these muscles are not functioning properly, they may contribute to persistent low back pain and difficulty performing normal activities.
ReActiv8 uses targeted electrical stimulation to activate these muscles, helping restore neuromuscular control and improve spinal stability over time.
Rather than providing only temporary symptom relief, the goal of ReActiv8 therapy is to address an underlying contributor to chronic mechanical low back pain.
How Does ReActiv8 Work?
ReActiv8 uses a small, implantable neurostimulation device that delivers controlled electrical impulses to nerves responsible for activating the lumbar multifidus muscles.
The treatment involves three primary steps:
1. Device Implantation
During an outpatient procedure, a small stimulation device is implanted beneath the skin, with leads positioned to stimulate the nerves that activate the multifidus muscles.
2. Targeted Muscle Stimulation
The device delivers gentle electrical impulses that cause the multifidus muscles to contract. Repeated activation is intended to help restore muscle function and improve spinal stability.
3. At-Home Therapy
Following implantation and activation, patients use an external controller to complete scheduled therapy sessions at home. Treatment is typically performed twice daily for approximately 30 minutes per session, as directed by their provider.
Because ReActiv8 is a restorative treatment, improvements may develop gradually over several months as therapy continues.
Who May Be a Candidate for ReActiv8?
ReActiv8 is designed for a specific group of patients with chronic mechanical low back pain. It is not intended to treat every type of back pain.
Patients who may benefit from an evaluation include those who:
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Experience chronic mechanical low back pain that has persisted for at least six months.
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Have evidence of lumbar multifidus muscle dysfunction.
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Continue to experience pain despite conservative treatments, such as physical therapy and medication.
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Have difficulty participating in everyday activities because of persistent low back pain.
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Are not candidates for spinal surgery.
A comprehensive evaluation is necessary to determine whether ReActiv8 is appropriate. Dr. Aschenbrener will review each patient’s symptoms, medical history, previous treatments, and examination findings before recommending a personalized treatment plan.
How is ReActiv8 Different From Traditional Back Pain Treatments?
Many treatments for chronic low back pain focus on reducing discomfort through medication, injections, physical therapy, or other interventions.
While these treatments can be effective for many patients, some individuals continue to experience persistent pain related to impaired spinal muscle function.
ReActiv8 is different because it is designed to restore the function of the muscles that help stabilize the spine.
By repeatedly activating the multifidus muscles, the therapy aims to improve neuromuscular control and support long-term functional improvement.
For appropriately selected patients, potential benefits may include reduced low back pain, improved physical function, and greater participation in everyday activities.
Individual results vary, and ReActiv8 involves an implanted medical device with potential procedural and device-related risks.
What Can Patients Expect After ReActiv8 Treatment?
ReActiv8 is not designed to provide immediate pain relief following implantation. Instead, the treatment works progressively as patients complete their prescribed stimulation sessions.
Over time, improvements in multifidus muscle function may help patients experience less pain and greater confidence in everyday movement.
Patients will have follow-up appointments to monitor their progress, evaluate device function, and make adjustments to their treatment plan when necessary.
The goal is to help patients achieve meaningful, sustained improvements in their ability to move and participate in daily activities.
Meet Dr. Ryan Aschenbrener
Dr. Ryan Aschenbrener is a Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (PM&R) and Interventional Spine specialist at OrthoNC. He specializes in diagnosing and treating spine and musculoskeletal conditions using personalized, non-surgical and minimally invasive treatment approaches.
With advanced training in interventional spine care, Dr. Aschenbrener offers innovative procedures, including ReActiv8 Restorative Neurostimulation, to help patients explore treatment options for chronic low back pain.
His approach focuses on identifying potential sources of pain, understanding each patient’s functional limitations, and developing individualized treatment plans designed to improve mobility and quality of life.
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