Increasing operational return-to-duty rates for low back pain using AI-assisted and ultrasound-guided epidural steroid injections

Rivanna Medical, Inc. received a $3.05M Project Grant from the Defense Health Agency (DHA) under the Military Medical Research and Development program (CFDA 12.420) to develop and validate AI-assisted and ultrasound-guided epidural steroid injection technologies. The three-year project, which commenced June 1, 2025 and concludes May 31, 2028, is based at the company's Charlottesville, Virginia headquarters and aims to increase operational return-to-duty rates for active-duty personnel suffering from low back pain. The research leverages Rivanna Medical's proprietary ultrasound imaging and needle guidance systems to enable precise epidural steroid injections, reducing reliance on traditional fluoroscopy and associated radiation exposure while improving clinical outcomes for pain management.

This initiative aligns with the Military Medical Research and Development program's objectives to advance innovative biomedical technologies addressing military-relevant health challenges. The project represents continued federal investment in Rivanna Medical's core technology platform, which focuses on developing 3D ultrasound systems for interventional pain management procedures. Successful outcomes could provide military medical providers with enhanced diagnostic and treatment capabilities while supporting the broader military health system's goal of optimizing functional recovery and minimizing long-term opioid dependency among service members.