Despite its name, failed back surgery syndrome is not an actual disease. It’s actually an umbrella term that refers to what patients may experience when surgery either fails to relieve neck or back pain, as intended, or creates even more serious issues. In addition to experiencing increased pain, patients who have undergone an unsuccessful neck or back surgery may develop anxiety or depression, or may begin depending on prescription medications. In some cases, failed neck and back procedures can even lead to the development of additional, and more severe, spine conditions.

Many people living with failed back surgery syndrome are able to treat their pain using medication, corticosteroid injections, physical therapy and other conservative methods. Additionally, below are four alternative failed back surgery syndrome treatment options that may provide symptom relief:

1. Chiropractic treatment. Chiropractors are trained in using manual manipulation to improve spinal alignment, which in turn reduces pressure on surrounding nerves and helps to alleviate pain.
2. Therapeutic massage. A trained masseuse can apply pressure to neck and back tissues to relax muscles and release any knots that may be causing pain.
3. Acupuncture. Acupuncture, which involves the placement of thin needles in certain locations across the body, is believed to help release endorphins, restore the balance between yin and yang and reduce pain.
4. Yoga. The stretching techniques used in yoga help to reduce pressure from the spine and ease pain. Continued practice will result in strengthened core muscles, which also help to take pressure off of the spine.

If you’ve undergone neck or back surgery that was unsuccessful, please contact USA Spine Care today. We’re the leader in minimally invasive spine surgery, and we treat a wide range of neck and back conditions, including failed back surgery syndrome. Our free MRI review* will help us determine whether you may be a candidate for our minimally invasive procedures.

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