What Is Failed Laminectomy Syndrome?
FLS, sometimes called post-laminectomy syndrome or failed back surgery syndrome (FBSS), refers to the continuation or recurrence of pain following a laminectomy procedure. A laminectomy involves removing a portion of the vertebra called the lamina to relieve pressure on spinal nerves.
Despite the surgery, some patients experience ongoing or new symptoms like chronic back pain, leg pain (sciatica), numbness, or weakness. This can result from a variety of causes, including scar tissue formation, nerve damage, spinal instability, or other untreated spinal issues. FLS is a complex condition that requires thorough evaluation and personalized treatment to address persistent pain and improve function [1].
We take a structured, multi-layered approach to Failed Laminectomy Syndrome treatment by combining advanced diagnostics, lifestyle modifications, and progressive therapies to support your mobility and well-being.
Customized Treatment Plans
At Compass Pain and Wellness, we create personalized treatment plans, combining advanced therapies with lifestyle strategies to promote spine health. Our approach focuses on long-term relief, integrating treatments that fit seamlessly into your daily life. From targeted interventions to posture guidance and ergonomic support, we offer strategies to help improve mobility and reduce the risk of future issues.
Minimally Invasive Procedures
We prioritize non-invasive treatments and may incorporate advanced, minimally invasive techniques designed to ease discomfort and support the body’s natural healing process. These approaches can offer relief with minimal downtime, helping you return to daily activities more comfortably. Throughout your care, we provide ongoing guidance and support to promote positive outcomes.
Comprehensive Care
We take a comprehensive approach to all conditions—going beyond pain relief to support overall function. By combining advanced medical treatments with complementary therapies such as physical therapy, chiropractic care, and mindfulness techniques, we create personalized care plans tailored to your individual needs.
Lasting Relief
Our goal is to support not just immediate relief, but long-term health and sustainable symptom management. By addressing contributing factors behind your condition, we aim to improve function, reduce the risk of future flare-ups, and promote lasting mobility and well-being.
Understanding Failed Laminectomy Syndrome: Signs And Symptoms
Symptoms of FLS can vary but often include:
- New symptoms that develop after surgery.
- Pain that worsens with certain movements or positions.
- Persistent low back pain, similar to pre-surgery discomfort.
- Radiating leg pain or numbness (sciatica).
- Weakness or difficulty walking.
These symptoms can significantly impact daily living and mobility. Patients may feel frustrated or discouraged, especially if they hoped surgery would resolve their pain. It’s important to understand that FLS is not uncommon and that effective treatment options exist to improve quality of life [1].
What Causes Failed Laminectomy Syndrome?
Several factors can contribute to FLS, including:
- Incomplete decompression of the nerve roots during surgery.
- Nerve damage or inflammation.
- Psychological factors, such as depression or anxiety, which can amplify pain perception [1].
- Recurrent herniated discs or spinal stenosis.
- Scar tissue (epidural fibrosis) that irritates spinal nerves.
- Spinal instability or misalignment after surgery.
Identifying the exact cause requires a comprehensive assessment, as multiple factors often contribute simultaneously.
What Happens If Failed Laminectomy Syndrome Is Left Untreated?
- Chronic, worsening pain.
- Emotional distress and decreased quality of life.
- Increasing difficulty walking or performing daily tasks.
- Potential development of secondary conditions like depression.
- Reduced physical activity leading to muscle weakness.
Our Approach To Treating Failed Laminectomy Syndrome
At Compass Pain and Wellness, the first treatment step will always be a detailed evaluation with your doctor to give you the answers you need. Next, our team will build a plan of care tailored to your specific pathology. This may involve advanced medical treatments as well as supportive therapies to address all aspects of your symptoms.
How We Diagnose Failed Laminectomy Syndrome
At Compass Pain and Wellness, we start with a thorough history and physical exam focusing on your symptoms, previous surgeries, and functional limitations. Advanced imaging, such as MRI or CT scans, helps assess scar tissue, spinal alignment, or new nerve compression.
Electrodiagnostic studies may be used to evaluate nerve function. This comprehensive evaluation helps us determine the underlying cause of persistent pain and tailor a precise treatment plan [1].
Conservative Treatment Approaches
Acupuncture
Acupuncture stimulates targeted points on the body to reduce pain, support healing, and restore energy balance.
Chiropractic Care
Chiropractic care improves spinal alignment and joint function to reduce pain and enhance physical mobility.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy improves strength, flexibility, and mobility while addressing pain from injury or chronic conditions.
Massage
Massage therapy eases muscle tension and improves circulation to support pain relief and overall well-being.
Lifestyle Modifications
Lifestyle modifications to reduce stress on the spine and improve posture.
Shockwave Therapy
Shockwave therapy to stimulate healing of scar tissue and soft tissues.
TECAR Therapy
TECAR therapy to enhance circulation and reduce inflammation.
Advanced Treatment Approaches
Epidural Steroid Injection
Epidural steroid injections reduce spinal inflammation to ease pain radiating from nerve compression or irritation.
Radiofrequency Ablation
Radiofrequency ablation targets specific nerves to interrupt pain signals and provide lasting pain relief.
Spinal Cord Stimulation
Spinal cord stimulation delivers electrical pulses to block nerve pain and reduce discomfort in the back or limbs.
Platelet-rich Plasma (PRP) Injections
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections to promote tissue repair and reduce inflammation.
Surgical Revision
Surgical revision in select cases when structural issues require correction [1].
References
- Manchikanti, L., et al. (2019). Post-Laminectomy Syndrome: Comprehensive Management of Failed Back Surgery Syndrome. Pain Physician, 22(5), E471-E492.
Our Providers
Meet our experienced and compassionate team of doctors who specialize in helping you manage your condition. With a patient-centered approach, our doctors work to understand your unique needs and provide compassionate, personalized care. Trust our providers to guide you on your journey to better health and improved well-being.
