Failed Back Surgery Syndrome Treatment in Marlton, NJ

What is Failed Back Surgery Syndrome?

Failed Back Surgery Syndrome (FBSS) is a condition that can arise after spine surgery if you are experiencing persistent pain or discomfort.

Despite the initial intentions to relieve pain and improve function, some patients find that their symptoms remain unchanged or get worse after the surgical procedure. According to Penn Medicine, up to 40 percent of patients have experienced continued pain after back surgery.

What are the Causes of Failed Back Surgery Syndrome?

There are several factors that may contribute to Failed Back Surgery Syndrome, including:

  • Scar tissue forming around the nerves, causing compression and pain
  • Incomplete resolution of the original underlying tissue, allowing symptoms to persist
  • Nerve damage occurring during surgery
  • Re-herniation of the same disc
  • Complications with the implanted hardware, such as screws or rods
  • Emotional stress or psychological factors influencing the perception of pain

There is a great deal of risk involved with spinal surgery, and the doctor should discuss those risks prior to the surgical procedure. If you are still experiencing pain following the surgery, there maybe other elements involved that will also need to be addressed.

What are the Symptoms of Failed Back Surgery Syndrome?

Often after back surgery, patients can feel that they are better for a while, but then the pain can get worse. Others feel that their symptoms never resolve.

Some common symptoms of Failed Back Surgery Syndrome include:

  • Inability to recuperate
  • Persistent or worsened back pain
  • Restricted mobility and stiffness
  • Muscle weakness
  • Sharp, stabbing back pain
  • Depression or anxiety due to chronic pain
  • Numbness or pain radiating through the lower back into the legs

Your care team will take a thorough evaluation of your symptoms, medical history, as well as various imaging studies to properly diagnose FBSS.

It can be crucial to rule out other potential causes of the symptoms.

Treatment for Failed Back Surgery

Managing FBSS requires a comprehensive approach that may include:

Conservative Measures

  • The use of medications
  • Injections
  • Radiofrequency ablation
  • Scar tissue softening

Revision Surgeries

  • Sometimes, additional surgery may be needed
  • Surgery can help correct any issues that were not resolved
  • Surgery can be performed to implant a device to deliver electrical impulses to the spine and interrupting pain signals for relief

Therapies

  • Physical therapy can help increase mobility and reduce stiffness
  • Stem-cell therapy is sometimes used to promote the body’s natural healing process
  • Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections can help with healing and reduce inflammation

Do I Have Nerve Damage After Surgery?

The doctor can order certain tests to ascertain your condition if you show any symptoms following surgery.

These tests include:

  • Nerve Conduction Study (EMG) – to measure the electrical activity of muscles and nerves
  • Ultrasound – to show swelling or constriction in the area

Request Your Appointment Today

If you are experiencing symptoms of failed back surgery syndrome, contact Ram Wellness Group at 908-540-7954 to schedule a consultation.

Request An Appointment