Failed Back Surgery Syndrome

What Is Failed Back Surgery Syndrome (FBSS)?

Failed Back Surgery Syndrome (FBSS) is a term used to describe persistent or recurring back and/or leg pain after spinal surgery. Despite technically “successful” surgery, some patients continue to experience pain, reduced function or new symptoms.

FBSS does not mean the surgery was a failure — it means the desired pain relief was not achieved or new mechanical or nerve issues developed afterward.

Common procedures associated with FBSS include:

• discectomy

• laminectomy

• spinal fusion

• decompression surgery

Common Symptoms of Failed Back Surgery Syndrome

Symptoms may appear immediately after surgery or develop months to years later and can include:

• persistent lower back pain

• ongoing or worsening leg pain (sciatica)

• nerve pain, burning or electric sensations

• numbness or tingling in the legs or feet

• stiffness and reduced spinal mobility

• pain that worsens with sitting or standing

• muscular tightness and guarding

• reduced tolerance to daily activities

In some cases, symptoms are different from the original pain, which can be especially frustrating for patients.

Why Pain Can Persist After Back Surgery

FBSS usually occurs when mechanical, neurological or functional issues remain unresolved or new ones develop after surgery.

Common contributing factors include:

Residual or Recurrent Disc Compression

Disc material may continue to irritate nerve roots, or adjacent discs may become overloaded after surgery.

Scar Tissue Formation (Epidural Fibrosis)

Post-surgical scar tissue can tether or irritate nerves, limiting mobility and increasing pain.

Altered Spinal Mechanics

Fusion or structural changes can increase stress on neighbouring segments, leading to adjacent segment degeneration.

Incomplete Decompression

The nerve may still be partially compressed despite surgery.

Muscle Deconditioning

Extended recovery periods can lead to weakness and instability.

Central Sensitisation

Chronic pain can make the nervous system more reactive, amplifying pain signals.

Why Surgery Alone May Not Resolve Pain

Spinal surgery often addresses structural issues, but does not always correct:

• spinal loading patterns

• disc hydration

• joint mobility

• posture and movement habits

• muscle coordination

• nervous system sensitivity

Without addressing these factors, pain may persist or return.

This is where non-surgical post-operative care becomes essential.

How Spinal Decompression May Help FBSS

Spinal decompression is often used in FBSS cases when surgery has already occurred and further surgery is not desired or recommended.

Based on the clinical literature you provided, decompression may help by:

✔ Reducing pressure on irritated nerves

Gentle traction can relieve ongoing nerve root compression.

✔ Improving disc hydration

Decompression encourages fluid exchange in remaining discs.

✔ Reducing mechanical stress on adjacent segments

Especially important after fusion surgery.

✔ Improving spinal mobility

Gentle motion without force or manipulation.

✔ Supporting post-surgical recovery

By addressing biomechanics rather than scar tissue alone.

Decompression is non-invasive, controlled and carefully progressed, making it suitable for many post-surgical patients.

Is Decompression Safe After Back Surgery?

Yes — when properly assessed and clinically indicated.

Before commencing decompression, we carefully evaluate:

• surgical history and reports

• type and level of surgery

• presence of hardware or fusion

• current neurological findings

• imaging (MRI/X-ray)

• spinal stability

Decompression is never applied directly over unstable segments and protocols are modified for post-surgical spines.

What to Expect at Your FBSS Assessment

1. Comprehensive History Review

We review your surgical timeline, outcomes and current symptoms.

2. Neurological & Orthopaedic Examination

Assessing nerve function, strength, reflexes and movement.

3. Imaging Review

MRI or post-surgical imaging helps determine suitability.

4. Individualised Care Plan

May include:

• spinal decompression (modified protocol)

• gentle chiropractic care

• stabilisation exercises

• posture and activity guidance

• gradual reconditioning

Who May Benefit from Decompression After Surgery?

You may be a candidate if:

• pain persists after back surgery

• leg pain or sciatica remains

• imaging shows residual disc or nerve compression

• you want to avoid further surgery

• you are medically stable

You may not be suitable if you have:

• spinal instability

• infection

• unhealed fractures

• certain hardware complications

All cases are carefully screened.

How Long Does Post-Surgical Care Take?

FBSS programs typically involve:

• 2–3 sessions per week

• 8–12 weeks of care

Post-surgical spines require gentler, longer timelines to allow the nervous system and tissues to adapt.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can pain really improve after failed back surgery?

Yes — many patients experience meaningful improvement when compression and biomechanics are addressed.

Is decompression better than more surgery?

In many cases, non-surgical care is preferred before considering further procedures.

Does decompression affect surgical hardware?

No. Protocols are adjusted to work safely around hardware.

Will I ever be pain-free?

Outcomes vary, but many patients report reduced pain, better function and improved quality of life.

Book a Post-Surgical Assessment

If you’re living with pain after back surgery and want a non-surgical, evidence-informed approach, we can assess whether spinal decompression may be appropriate for you.

➡️ Book Your 40-Minute Decompression Assessment Today

(Assessment + findings + first session if indicated)