Being diagnosed with failed back surgery syndrome can be both distressing and discouraging. Patients anticipating pain relief instead discover their discomfort remains or new symptoms have developed. Although there are many reasons why back surgery can prove unsuccessful, some of the most common are a misdiagnosis of the original condition, surgical errors and postoperative complications.

Failed back surgery syndrome recovery can be challenging, but there are several conservative treatment options you can try at home that may hasten the healing process. Before engaging in any physical activities, always consult with a doctor. After all, your back is in a delicate state. You don’t want to risk further injury by pushing yourself too hard or moving in a way that exacerbates your condition. Here are seven practices to consider:

1. Stretching. Keeping back muscles flexible and limber will decrease the possibility of strains and tears. Expand your stretching routine gradually and never stretch to the point of pain.
2. Swimming. Combining low-impact exercise and resistance training, swimming is an excellent way to strengthen your core and back muscles.
3. Improving your posture. Poor posture such as slouching can strain neck, shoulder and back muscles. Keeping your head up and your shoulders over your hips will ensure your spine is in proper alignment.
4. Practicing yoga. Yoga is another excellent way to improve muscle strength, balance and flexibility. Avoid the more challenging poses that require a lot of contortions. Instead, stick with gentile routines that require no twisting or back arching.
5. Maintaining a healthy weight. Shedding extra pounds will take pressure off the vertebrae. It can also reduce blood pressure, increase energy levels and improve circulation, all of which are beneficial for the healing process.
6. Avoiding tobacco products. One of the ways smoking takes its toll on the body is by decreasing the blood supply to tissue, which decreases their ability to heal after an injury.
7. Staying positive. Numerous studies have shown a correlation between a positive attitude and the speed of recovery after surgery. Having a good support team around you and realistic goals are just a few ways to maintain an optimistic outlook.

At USA Spine Care, our surgeons have helped more than 75,000 patients find lasting relief from their chronic neck or back pain. If you have been coping with symptoms attributed to failed back surgery syndrome and conservative treatment strategies have been ineffective in managing your pain, you may be a candidate one of our outpatient procedures. We can provide you with a free MRI review* to begin the screening process. Contact a member of the USA Spine Care team today to learn how to obtain yours.

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