LOGAN – Chronic back pain can be frustrating, especially when traditional treatments like physical therapy, medications, or even injections fail to provide lasting relief. But for some Cache Valley residents, a newer approach at Southwest Spine and Pain Center is offering hope where other therapies have fallen short.
A Breakthrough Option: The Intracept® Procedure
The Intracept® Procedure is a minimally invasive outpatient treatment designed for patients suffering from vertebrogenic pain, which is a specific type of lower back pain caused by inflammation in the vertebral endplates.
Dr. Brian Richardson, MD, pain management physician at Southwest Spine and Pain Center in Logan, believes in the procedure so much that he underwent it himself. He reports nearly 100% relief from his chronic low back pain today.
Understanding Vertebrogenic Pain
Unlike sciatica or disc-related pain that often radiates down the legs, vertebrogenic pain tends to remain centered in the lower back and may worsen with prolonged sitting or physical activity.
“The Intracept Procedure allows us to treat pain right at its source, the basivertebral nerve inside the spine,” says Dr. Richardson. “It’s a targeted, image-guided technique that can make a life-changing difference for the right patient.”
National Recognition: Boston Scientific Center of Excellence
Dr. Richardson, who completed his training at the Mayo Clinic and served in the U.S. Army before joining Southwest Spine and Pain Center, is one of a select number of physicians who have received a Center of Excellence (COE) designation from Boston Scientific for his expertise in the Intracept Procedure.
This distinction is grantedtoonly a handful of physicians nationwide. It recognizes providers who have achieved advanced training and consistently deliver outstanding outcomes.
When the designation was awarded in July 2024, Dr. Richardson becameonly the second provider in Utah and ninth in the country to earn this recognition. As of late 2025, just five physicians in Utah hold this status, making him a key regional resource for patients in Northern Utah seeking advanced pain relief options.
“Receiving the Center of Excellence designation isn’t just a recognition,” explains Dr. Richardson. “It’s a testament to the number of patients we’ve helped, the outcomes we’ve achieved, and our continued commitment to providing the most advanced care available.”
How the Procedure Works
The Intracept Procedure is performed through a small incision, typically allowing patients to return home the same day. Unlike fusion surgery or spinal implants, it doesn’t alter spinal structure. Instead, it uses radiofrequency energy to disable the nerve sending pain signals. This often provides long-lasting results.
Who May Benefit from Intracept
For those with persistent low back pain lasting six months or more who haven’t found success with conservative therapies, Intracept may be worth exploring.
“Our goal is always to match patients with the right treatment, whether that’s conservative care or more advanced options like Intracept,” adds Dr. Richardson. “Every patient’s path to relief is different.”
Learn More
To learn more or schedule a consultation at the Southwest Spine and Pain Center in Logan, visit www.southwestspineandpain.com or call/text (435) 787-8146.
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