It can be incredibly disappointing to experience ongoing pain after undergoing neck or back surgery, but many people have to deal with a condition known as failed back surgery syndrome, or FBSS. This refers to new or continued symptoms that occur as the result of complications related to spine surgery.

If you are dealing with failed back surgery syndrome, your physician may refer you to a physical therapist who can help you manage your pain with a variety of exercises, including stretching.

Stretching treatment for FBSS

While there are many potential causes for FBSS that can make developing an effective treatment plan difficult, gentle stretching methods have been shown to help patients manage symptoms. Just a few of the many options include:

• Sedative stretching. A relatively new concept, this method involves lightly sedating the patient. This then allows a team of physicians to stretch various sections of the patient’s body where pain is felt. They can guide limbs and the spine to move with a full range of motion without the patient being subjected to pain.
• Restorative yoga. Gentle yoga poses may provide relief from neck and back pain, while deep breathing and mindfulness can promote relaxation and better body awareness.
• Tai chi. This method of exercise began in ancient China and involves slow, relaxed movements to stretch and strengthen muscles, improve flexibility and increase circulation.

Work closely with your doctor and physical therapist to develop a personalized stretching routine that is best for your particular needs and state of health. Listen to your body and stop at the first sign of discomfort.

Minimally invasive spine surgery for FBSS

If stretching and other conservative treatments have failed to provide pain relief, minimally invasive spine surgery at USA Spine Care may help you get back to your daily routine. Find out if you are a candidate for one our outpatient procedures that treat a range of spine conditions, including failed back surgery syndrome. Our procedures can be performed with a less than 1-inch incision and offer our patients a shorter recovery time and less risk of complication compared to traditional open neck or back surgery.

Contact a member of our caring team to get more information about your treatment options and ask for your free MRI review* to see if you are a potential candidate.