What is Failed Back Syndrome?
Failed Back Syndrome, also known as Failed Back Surgery Syndrome (FBSS), is a condition in which a patient continues to experience persistent or recurring pain following spinal surgery. The pain may occur in the back, neck, or extremities and can result from unresolved nerve compression, scar tissue formation, spinal instability, or degeneration at adjacent spinal levels.
What Are the Symptoms?
Symptoms of Failed Back Syndrome vary depending on the underlying cause but commonly include:
- Chronic back or neck pain following surgery
- Persistent or worsening leg or arm pain
- Nerve-related symptoms such as burning, tingling, or numbness
- Muscle weakness or stiffness
- Limited mobility and reduced function
- Pain that interferes with daily activities and quality of life
What Causes Failed Back Syndrome?
Failed Back Syndrome can result from several factors before, during, or after spinal surgery, including:
- Incomplete decompression of the spinal nerves
- Scar tissue (epidural fibrosis) formation
- Spinal instability or hardware complications
- Degeneration of adjacent spinal segments
- Recurrent disc herniation• Incorrect initial diagnosis or surgical approach
What Are the Treatment Options?
Treatment depends on identifying the underlying cause of continued pain and may include physical therapy, medication management, injections, and advanced pain-control techniques. When conservative measures are ineffective and structural spinal issues persist, surgical intervention may be necessary—Consult Premier NeuroSpine for the condition and surgical planning.