Failed Back Surgery Syndrome (FBSS) is a condition where patients continue to experience chronic pain after spinal surgery. It is not a single diagnosis but rather a collection of symptoms that point to persistent spine pain despite surgical intervention.
FBSS differs from routine post-operative pain because it is long-lasting, often involving nerve root scarring, neurological symptoms, or scar tissue compressing spinal nerves. This condition is also known as post-laminectomy syndrome, especially after decompression surgeries.
Our clinic uses diagnostic imaging, including MRI and EMG, to confirm FBSS and differentiate it from temporary recovery pain.
In the next section, we’ll explain what causes FBSS and why some back surgeries fail.
FBSS has both mechanical and neuropathic origins. Mechanical causes involve structural instability or hardware failure, while neuropathic sources relate to nerve damage or inflammation.
Following a discectomy or spinal fusion, FBSS is more common. When pain persists, our clinic evaluates both surgical technique and post-surgical spine condition.
Now that you know the causes, let’s explore the symptoms to watch for.
The hallmark symptom of FBSS is chronic lower back pain that continues after spinal surgery. The damaged nerve roots determine whether the symptoms are confined or spread to the legs.
If you notice any of these signs, accurate diagnosis is the next critical step.
Diagnosing FBSS involves clinical evaluation, imaging studies, and sometimes nerve tests. Our spine specialists aim to identify pain sources rather than treating symptoms blindly.
Our clinic prioritizes diagnostic clarity using axial imaging and thorough assessments before proposing any treatment plan.
After diagnosis, we move to treatment options—both conventional and advanced.
Initial FBSS treatment often involves non-surgical options aimed at pain control. However, these conventional therapies may offer only temporary relief.
For patients unresponsive to standard care, modern therapies are often more effective.
Advanced FBSS treatments address neuropathic pain and structural dysfunctions through minimally invasive techniques. These often provide lasting relief and improve mobility.
Revision spine surgery may help when there’s clear structural damage or hardware failure. But it’s not for every FBSS case.
We conduct thorough surgical reevaluation to assess if anatomical correction is likely to improve your pain.
If surgery isn't the answer, our clinic’s unique approach may offer better results.
Our clinic delivers personalized, patient-centered care through a team-based model. Each patient benefits from a collaborative treatment pathway combining medical, physical, and psychological support.
In the next section, you’ll read how this approach has helped real patients regain control over their lives.
Patients treated at our clinic often experience measurable pain reduction, restored mobility, and a significant improvement in life quality.
Maria, 52—Former FBSS Patient
We invite you to visit our clinic or speak to past patients for first-hand insights.
Now let’s guide you on how to prepare for your first visit.
Before your first appointment, it’s essential to gather medical history and pain documentation to help us design the best care plan.
This preparation improves diagnostic speed and ensures a productive consultation.
Next, we’ll help you understand financial and insurance aspects.
We help patients navigate the often-complicated process of insurance verification and treatment financing.
Finally, here are the most common questions patients ask about FBSS.
If pain persists for more than six months post-surgery with neurological symptoms, FBSS is likely.
Yes, non-surgical treatments like spinal cord stimulation and regenerative therapy can provide relief.
Yes, it is FDA-approved, minimally invasive, and reversible.
Spinal cord stimulators offer up to 70% pain relief in suitable candidates.
Yes, especially if underlying issues like instability or nerve compression persist.
Discover South Florida Scrambler Therapy is one of the nation’s leading clinics for noninvasive chronic pain relief, offering FDA-cleared Scrambler Therapy® for adults and children. Co-founded by Dr. Rick Markson, one of the few practitioners worldwide to receive advanced certification directly from the therapy’s inventor in Rome, our clinic delivers globally recognized expertise with compassionate, personalized care. If you or a loved one is living with treatment-resistant nerve pain, we invite you to schedule a consultation and explore a life beyond pain.
📘 What is scrambler therapy?
📘 What to Expect During a Scrambler Session
📘 CRPS Pain Relief Without Drugs—Real Patient Stories
📘 Conditions that scrambler therapy can treat
Every day counts when we suffer from chronic pain. South Florida Scrambler Therapy offers a free initial consultation to determine if Scrambler is right for you. Schedule Today:
📞 Call Now or Visit website: www.southfloridascramblertherapy.com
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You deserve to laugh, and enjoy life without pain. The journey starts here.
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