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Post-Laminectomy Syndrome (Failed Back Surgery Syndrome) 

Back surgery can be an important step toward relieving pain, but for some people, pain continues or returns after the procedure. This condition, known as Post-Laminectomy Syndrome or Failed Back Surgery Syndrome (FBSS), can develop after spinal surgery when the original source of pain was not fully resolved or when new issues arise during the healing process. 

At Fortera Health, we understand how frustrating it can be to continue experiencing pain after surgery. Our team takes a comprehensive approach to identify the underlying cause of your symptoms and develop a personalized treatment plan focused on improving your comfort, function, and quality of life. 

Common Symptoms 

Symptoms may include: 

  • Persistent low back pain 
  • Pain that radiates into the buttocks or legs (sciatica) 
  • Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the legs 
  • Muscle tightness or spasms 
  • Difficulty standing, walking, or performing everyday activities 
  • Ongoing pain that interferes with sleep or daily function

What Causes Post-Laminectomy Syndrome? 

There are many reasons pain may continue after spine surgery. Common causes include: 

  • Scar tissue forming around spinal nerves 
  • A recurrent or remaining herniated disc 
  • Narrowing of the spinal canal or nerve openings 
  • Arthritis of the facet joints 
  • Spinal instability 
  • Degeneration of nearby spinal segments over time 

Because every patient is different, a careful evaluation is essential to determine the exact source of ongoing pain. 

How Is It Diagnosed? 

Diagnosing Post-Laminectomy Syndrome begins with a thorough medical history and physical examination. Depending on your symptoms, your provider may recommend advanced imaging, such as an MRI or CT scan, to evaluate the spine and identify possible causes of persistent pain. In some cases, diagnostic injections may be used to help pinpoint the specific pain generator. 

Physician reviewing joint X-ray images while assessing a patient's symptoms

Treatment Options 

Treatment is tailored to each patient’s condition and goals. Depending on the underlying cause of your symptoms, your care plan may include: 

  • Physical therapy to improve strength, flexibility, and mobility 
  • Anti-inflammatory or nerve pain medications when appropriate 
  • Image-guided spinal injections 
  • Spinal cord stimulation for chronic nerve-related pain that has not responded to other treatments 
  • Referral for additional surgical evaluation when a correctable structural problem is identified 

Our goal is not simply to manage your pain, but to identify the reason it persists and provide the most appropriate treatment to help you regain function and return to the activities you enjoy. 

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