Failed Back Surgery Syndrome

What is Failed Back Surgery Syndrome?

If pain is still part of your daily life months after surgery, it may be failed back surgery syndrome. You deserve answers and a plan that helps you move forward.

Failed back surgery syndrome is ongoing back or leg pain after spine surgery. It does not mean your surgery “failed.” It means your pain did not improve the way you hoped. Sometimes the pain changes. Sometimes it stays the same. You may feel frustrated.

You may feel tired of explaining your pain. You are not alone. Many people need more support after spine surgery and that support starts with someone who listens.

Causes of Failed Back Surgery Syndrome

Pain after surgery can happen for many reasons. Common causes include:

• Scar tissue that forms around nerves
• Ongoing nerve damage
• A new disc problem at another level of the spine
• Spinal instability
• Incomplete healing
• A condition that was not fully diagnosed before surgery

Sometimes, the original source of pain was more complex than it first appeared. A careful review can help uncover what is really happening now.

If you’re unsure whether your pain is muscular or spinal, this guide can help you understand the difference.

Risk Factors

Some factors can raise the chance of ongoing pain after surgery:

• Multiple spine surgeries
• Smoking
• Diabetes or other chronic conditions
• Depression or anxiety
• Severe nerve pain before surgery
• Physically demanding work

Your experience is unique. A full health review helps your care team see the whole picture, not just your spine.

Wondering how these risk factors may affect you?

A quick spine disorder risk assessment can help you better understand your risk and decide whether it’s time to talk with a specialist.

Treatments

A new plan can help you move, sleep and live with less pain.

Treatment depends on the cause of your pain. You may not need another surgery. Many people improve with:

• Physical therapy to rebuild strength and stability
• Medication to calm nerve pain
• Injections to reduce swelling and irritation
• Nerve blocks to pinpoint the pain source
• Spinal cord stimulation to change how pain signals travel
• Behavioral health support to help manage chronic pain

If surgery is needed, it is carefully considered. Your provider will explain your options in simple terms and help you decide what feels right.

Not sure where to start?

A short health risk assessment can help identify what may be contributing to your pain and guide your next steps.

Outlook

Relief is possible. It may take time and the right combination of treatments.

Many people find better pain control, improved movement and better sleep with a personalized plan.
Small improvements add up. You deserve to feel hopeful again.

Prevention

Not all cases can be prevented. But these steps may lower risk:

• Getting a clear diagnosis before surgery
• Asking questions about expected outcomes
• Following rehab plans closely
• Managing chronic conditions like diabetes
• Avoiding smoking

If surgery is recommended, understanding the goal and recovery plan helps you feel more prepared.

Why Early Care Matters

Ongoing pain can affect your mood, your work and your relationships. The longer pain goes untreated, the harder it can be to manage.

Early evaluation helps:

• Identify the true source of pain
• Prevent worsening nerve damage
• Create a plan that fits your life
• Restore confidence in your care

You do not have to figure this out on your own. A spine specialist can help you understand your options and take the next step toward relief.