Failed back surgery syndrome (FBSS) is a term that describes the condition of an individual who is experiencing unsuccessful results following back surgery. FBSS can be an issue for up to 40 percent of individuals who undergo traditional open spine surgery, and it can produce symptoms that make day-to-day life difficult, including chronic pain, limited mobility, muscle spasms, numbness and tingling. Causes of FBSS can include:

• Failed nerve decompression
• Spinal fusion failure
• Implant migration
• Scar tissue formation
• Nerve damage

Treating the symptoms of FBSS

If you’ve been diagnosed with FBSS, you won’t necessarily have to cope with painful symptoms indefinitely. There are several failed back surgery syndrome treatment options that, when attempted for several weeks or months, can provide the level of symptom relief you are looking for. Depending on the specific condition that is causing your discomfort, your options may include pain and anti-inflammatory medications, hot/cold therapy, corticosteroid injections, chiropractic care and massage therapy. Physical therapy is another popular option that can strengthen the core muscles that support the spine to help reduce the pressure on the affected area.

What to do when nonsurgical treatments don’t provide relief

If you are experiencing FBSS, the last option you probably want to consider is additional back surgery. However, if your symptoms haven’t responded to several months of conservative and alternative treatment, you may want consider the options available at USA Spine Care. We offer minimally invasive spine surgery that is a safer and effective alternative to traditional open back procedures and is performed utilizing a less than 1-inch incision.^ Our procedures have helped thousands of people, and we’d be happy to provide a free MRI review* to help determine if you are a candidate.

Contact us today to learn more.

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