Back surgery is often recommended for patients with chronic pain, herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or other debilitating conditions. While many people experience significant relief, some continue to suffer from pain, numbness, or limited mobility even after surgery. This is known as Failed Back Surgery Syndrome (FBSS), or Post Laminectomy Syndrome.
If you are still experiencing pain after spine surgery, you are not alone—and you do not have to live with it. At Ortho Sport & Spine Physicians, our team of orthopedic specialists is a leader in diagnosing and treating FBSS with both non-surgical and minimally invasive techniques.
What Is Failed Back Surgery Syndrome?
FBSS is not a single condition but rather a term used to describe ongoing pain and symptoms following spinal surgery. According to published studies, 10–40% of patients report some level of persistent or recurrent pain after back surgery. Symptoms may include:
- Chronic lower back pain
- Pain that radiates into the legs or arms (sciatica-like symptoms)
- Numbness or tingling
- Limited mobility or stiffness
- Emotional effects such as frustration, depression, or anxiety
These symptoms can greatly impact quality of life, which is why proper evaluation and treatment are essential.
Why Does FBSS Occur?
There are several reasons why surgery may not provide complete relief:
- Incomplete decompression: Nerve roots may still be pinched after surgery.
- Scar tissue formation (epidural fibrosis): Scar tissue can irritate or compress nerves.
- Incorrect diagnosis: Pain may have been caused by a different spinal level or condition.
- Recurrent disc herniation: Discs can re-herniate even after surgical removal.
- Spinal instability or degeneration: Ongoing wear-and-tear may cause new issues.
- Surgical complications: Hardware problems, infections, or improper healing may contribute.
It’s important to note that FBSS does not necessarily mean the original surgery was “wrong.” The spine is a complex structure, and pain can arise from multiple sources.
Treatment Options for FBSS
The good news is that FBSS can often be treated successfully. At Ortho Sport & Spine Physicians, we focus first on conservative, non-surgical treatments, which may include:
- Physical therapy and rehabilitation
- Targeted pain management (injections, nerve blocks, or medications)
- Chiropractic and integrative therapies
- Lifestyle modifications and guided exercise programs
If these methods do not provide sufficient relief, surgical options may be considered.
Minimally Invasive Solutions: Endoscopic Spine Surgery
In cases where further surgery is necessary, our specialists may recommend endoscopic spine surgery, also known as “band-aid back surgery.” This advanced approach uses tiny incisions and specialized cameras to access and repair problem areas in the spine with minimal disruption to surrounding tissues.
Benefits of endoscopic spine surgery include:
- Smaller incisions and less scarring
- Shorter recovery time compared to traditional surgery
- Lower risk of complications
- Less post-operative pain
- Outpatient treatment options
Ortho Sport & Spine Physicians is proud to be one of the nation’s leading providers of endoscopic spine surgery, offering patients hope and relief when traditional surgeries have failed.
Why Choose Ortho Sport & Spine Physicians?
Our team of double board-certified orthopedic surgeons and interventional spine specialists is dedicated to advanced, patient-centered care. With locations nationwide, we are known for combining the latest medical technology with personalized treatment plans that help patients find lasting relief from spine-related pain.
We specialize in complex conditions like FBSS, providing a full range of options—from conservative therapies to cutting-edge minimally invasive surgery.
Take the Next Step Toward Relief
If you are still struggling with pain after back surgery, you may be suffering from Failed Back Surgery Syndrome (FBSS). Don’t let ongoing pain control your life. At Ortho Sport & Spine Physicians, we offer advanced diagnostic tools and innovative treatments to help you regain mobility and restore your quality of life.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help you overcome FBSS with effective, minimally invasive solutions.
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