If back pain is limiting your daily life, there may be an option that helps you move more comfortably without surgery or medications. The iovera treatment is an advanced, FDA-cleared therapy that uses controlled cold technology to temporarily block pain signals from specific nerves.
At North Texas Orthopedics, Dr. Melissa Murphy offers iovera as a targeted solution for patients experiencing back pain from various back conditions or those preparing for back surgery.
What Is iovera?
The iovera system is a handheld medical device that delivers precise doses of cold to targeted sensory nerves. This cold temporarily interrupts the nerve’s ability to send pain signals to the brain, helping reduce discomfort in the treated area.
Unlike many traditional pain treatments, iovera:
- Does not rely on opioids or other medications
- Targets only the nerves causing pain
- Is performed in a doctor’s office
- Provides immediate pain relief for many patients
- May last up to 90 days as the nerve naturally regenerates
Because the treatment is localized, it affects only the treated area rather than the entire body.
How the iovera Treatment Works?
The treatment uses a process known as cryoneurolysis, which means temporarily disabling pain-carrying nerves using controlled cold.
During treatment:
- The treatment area is prepared: Your physician cleans the area and applies a numbing agent to keep you comfortable
- Targeted cold is delivered to the nerve: A small needle is inserted into the skin and the device delivers a precise dose of cold to the nerve responsible for pain
- Pain signals are interrupted: The nerve temporarily stops sending pain signals to the brain, providing relief
The procedure typically takes about 15–30 minutes, depending on the number of treatment areas.
What to Expect During Treatment?
Most patients find the procedure very manageable. During treatment you may feel:
- Pressure or tugging at the treatment site
- Cold or warm sensations
- Mild tingling
These sensations are normal and indicate the therapy is working. Pain relief can often be felt immediately after treatment, although individual results may vary.
Recovery and Aftercare
There is little to no downtime after iovera° treatment. After your procedure:
- Keep the treatment area clean and dry while it heals
- Mild tenderness, swelling, bruising, or tingling may occur temporarily
- Your physician may recommend ice, warm compresses, or over-the-counter pain medication if needed
- Follow your doctor’s instructions regarding exercise and returning to normal activities
Most side effects are mild and resolve without additional treatment.
Safety Information
The iovera system is FDA-cleared for pain relief and for creating lesions in peripheral nerves to block pain signals.
However, the treatment is not recommended for patients with certain conditions, including:
- Cryoglobulinemia
- Paroxysmal cold hemoglobinuria
- Cold urticaria
- Raynaud’s disease
- Open or infected wounds at the treatment site
Your physician will review your medical history to ensure the treatment is safe for you.
Schedule a Consultation
If back pain is affecting your quality of life, the orthopedic specialists at North Texas Orthopedics can help determine whether iovera may be right for you. Schedule a consultation and learn more about this innovative, non-surgical pain relief option.
