Life After Failed Back Surgery: How Spinal Cord Stimulation Can Help

Each year, hundreds of thousands of Americans undergo surgery to relieve back pain. 

Many of these people experience symptom improvement, but for some, issues such as back and neck pain persist. When this happens, it’s often referred to as failed back surgery or failed back surgery syndrome (FBSS).  

 At Sunshine Spine and Pain Specialists, PLLC, in Sarasota, Florida, our team of interventional pain doctors specializes in treating FBSS. Although it can be frustrating to still have pain, there’s hope. Spinal cord stimulation may provide lasting relief. 

This article explains why FBSS happens and how spinal cord stimulation works.

Why pain sometimes persists after back surgery

Many people assume that their pain will go away following back surgery. However, pain typically isn’t caused by a single issue. That means even if a structural issue, such as a herniated disc, is treated, other factors can cause pain to return. 

Factors that may contribute to post-surgical pain include:

• Nerve damage
• Degenerative spine changes
• Scar tissue buildup
• Pain originating from other areas of the spine

The good news is that even if you have ongoing pain, another surgery may not be necessary. That’s where spinal cord stimulation comes in.

How spinal cord stimulation works

Spinal cord stimulation uses an implantable device, called a spinal cord stimulator (SCS), to alter pain signals before they reach your brain.

If we determine that you can benefit from this type of treatment, we complete a quick trial procedure. Specifically, we administer an anesthetic, make small incisions in your lower back, and place the SCS leads near your spinal cord.

The device connects to thin wires that emit electrical impulses. These impulses alter the way your brain interprets pain signals sent by your nerves. If the SCS relieves your pain during the trial period, we implant the SCS for good.

This may offer ongoing relief, making it easier to move comfortably and return to your routine.

Potential benefits of spinal cord stimulation

Many people experiencing FBSS may benefit from spinal cord stimulation. Some of the benefits they report include:

• Reduced back and leg pain
• Better sleep
• Improved mobility
• Less reliance on pain medication
• Better quality of life

To be clear, we only recommend SCS on a case-by-case basis. Before moving forward, we’ll need to complete a comprehensive physical exam and diagnostic imaging.

Ready to see if spinal cord stimulation is right for you?

Pain from failed back surgery can make even small movements uncomfortable. If you want to better manage your pain, spinal cord stimulation may help.

To see if you’re a candidate, schedule an appointment at Sunshine Spine and Pain Specialists, PLLC.