Pursuing failed back surgery syndrome treatment can be frustrating. Undergoing spine surgery only to have symptoms return or new ones develop can be devastating, but it’s important to work with your doctor to find relief. The following are a few of the main dangers of not treating failed back surgery syndrome and how this condition can negatively affect your quality of life.

The return or worsening of symptoms

An obvious problem with not receiving proper treatment following a failed back surgery is the persistence or worsening of previous back problems — or even the development of new issues. While this is the defining characteristic of failed back surgery syndrome, it can be easy to overlook at first. Some people mistake new discomfort or pain as part of the body’s recovery from surgery. However, when a problem doesn’t resolve or gets worse over a few days or weeks, additional treatment should be sought.

There are a range of causes for failed back surgery symptoms. This can include a misdiagnosis of the source of back pain, the body rejecting surgical implants or possibly a severe infection at the surgical site. These issues can be serious and may require emergency care in some cases, so it’s important not to wait for treatment.

Missing out on life

Other than improving their pain and discomfort, people choose to undergo neck or back surgery to return to the people and activities they know and love. In cases of failed back surgery syndrome, ongoing symptoms can mean more time spent missing out on everything from working to participating in leisure activities. The potential for economic, social and physical stress due to coping with pain, weakness and other issues can even lead to depression.

Treatment for failed back surgery syndrome

Although it is a difficult condition to have to deal with, there are many failed back surgery syndrome treatment options. In nonemergency cases, doctors will recommend attempting conservative treatment options like physical therapy, massage and medication before a follow-up surgery becomes a serious consideration. If you are recommended for another procedure, you should consider the minimally invasive spine surgery at USA Spine Care. Our procedures are performed on an outpatient basis using muscle-sparing techniques. This leads to less risk of complications and a shorter recovery period compared to traditional open neck or back surgery.

If you’d like to find out if you’re a candidate for one of our procedures, reach out to our caring and dedicated team of Spine Care Consultants today for a no-cost MRI review.*