Failed Back Surgery Syndrome

Written By Bobby Fano

Back surgery is often seen as a last resort for people living with chronic back pain after surgery. But what happens when the surgery doesn't work—or worse, when the pain gets even worse afterward? This is the reality for many patients diagnosed with Failed Back Surgery Syndrome (FBSS), also known as post-laminectomy syndrome.

About 16 million adults in the US experience persistent or chronic spine pain, making it the sixth most costly condition. While estimates suggest that 60% or more of initial back surgeries are successful, many are not, resulting in over 80,000 failed spine surgery cases yearly. The International Association for the Study of Pain defines FBSS as lumbar pain post-surgery, with or without referred or radiating pain mainly in the lower limbs, of unknown origin, that persists or begins after surgery for lumbar disc herniations.

This challenging syndrome is reported to affect between 10% to 40% of patients post-surgery, leading to a lower quality of life, spinal instability, and increased disability. If you're among those experiencing ongoing or worsening lower back pain after spinal surgery, you're not alone—and non-surgical back pain relief options like chiropractic care may offer help.

What Is Failed Back Surgery Syndrome?

Despite the name, FBSS doesn’t necessarily mean the surgeon made a mistake. It simply means that the outcome of the spinal surgery didn’t meet expectations—either the nerve pain after back surgery didn’t improve, or it returned shortly after recovery. If you’re living with persistent pain after spinal surgery, there are conservative options, such as chiropractic treatment for FBSS, that may be helpful.

Common Symptoms of Failed Back Surgery Syndrome (FBSS)

Symptoms of FBSS can resemble the original pain or appear in new forms. Common signs include:

  • Persistent or recurring lower back pain

  • Leg pain or sciatica after back surgery

  • Stiffness and reduced range of motion

  • Muscle weakness in the legs or feet

  • Numbness or tingling sensations

  • Headaches

  • Fatigue

What Contributes to Failed Back Surgery Syndrome?

Several factors can lead to spinal surgery failure symptoms:

  • Incomplete Healing or Scar Tissue: Scar tissue can compress nerves, worsening pain.

  • Recurrent Disc Herniation: The same or nearby disc may herniate again.

  • Adjacent Segment Disease: Surgery at one level can stress nearby spinal segments.

  • Nerve Damage: Nerves may be damaged or irritated during surgery.

  • Spinal Instability After Surgery: Sometimes, surgery can cause further instability.

  • Psychological Factors: Chronic pain can lead to depression or anxiety.

  • Incorrect Initial Diagnosis: Surgery may not have targeted the real cause.

How Chiropractic Care May Help with FBSS

Chiropractic care for FBSS offers a conservative, non-invasive pain relief solution that targets the musculoskeletal system to address underlying causes of persistent back pain.

Studies show individuals with neck or lower back pain after failed surgery have experienced the following improvements through chiropractic:

  • Reduced pain and stiffness

  • Decreased reliance on medications

  • Improved daily function and quality of life

Here are some of the ways chiropractic care may help with FBSS:

1. Pain Reduction

Gentle chiropractic adjustments and mobilization techniques may reduce joint stress and improve spinal motion, easing chronic pain after surgery.

2. Restoring Spinal Alignment and Biomechanics

Surgery often alters the spine’s mechanics. Chiropractors work to realign and optimize spinal biomechanics, helping reduce strain on affected tissues.

3. Rehabilitation and Exercise Guidance

Tailored rehabilitation programs strengthen core muscles, improve stability, and support long-term healing—key aspects of musculoskeletal rehabilitation.

Considering Chiropractic as a Treatment Option for FBSS

If you’re exploring alternative treatment options for Failed Back Surgery Syndrome (FBSS), chiropractic care may offer the relief you've been searching for. This non-pharmacological, cost-effective approach focuses on restoring spinal health and enhancing overall wellness—without the risks of additional surgery.

At Vertical Chiropractic in Sarasota, FL, Dr. Bobby specializes in helping individuals manage chronic back pain after surgery through personalized chiropractic care. His goal is to address the root causes of your discomfort, improve mobility, and support your long-term healing journey.

Don’t settle for pain as your “new normal.” Schedule a consultation with Dr. Bobby today and discover how chiropractic care can help you move forward with less pain and more freedom.

Bobby Fano
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