Back Pain After Surgery: Is Spinal Decompression an Option?

Pain that continues after surgery

"Failed back surgery syndrome" is a catch-all label for pain that persists, returns or appears after spine surgery. Many specialists find the label misleading, since it implies the operation was done incorrectly when there are many possible reasons for ongoing pain. A group of international pain experts has proposed "persistent spinal pain syndrome" instead (Pain Medicine, 2021).

Ongoing pain after surgery deserves a fresh evaluation, starting with the surgeon or doctor who knows your case. New or worsening symptoms can have causes that need medical care.

When decompression may be considered

The guidelines Springville Disc Center publishes list ongoing back pain more than 6 months after surgery as one situation where decompression may be considered. That's only a starting point. Your type of surgery, what was found, and your current exam all matter.

When it usually isn't recommended

Screws, rods, cages or other metal hardware in the spine
A spinal fusion in the last 6 months
A spine that's unstable, or a recent fracture
Signs of infection after surgery, such as fever or a red, draining wound (get medical care right away)

See the full candidate list.

What to bring to a consultation

Your operative report or a summary of the surgery (date, type and level)
Imaging reports from before and after surgery
Notes from your surgeon or physical therapist about restrictions
A list of current medications

Dr. Stapel reviews your history and exam and tells you honestly whether decompression is a reasonable option. If it isn't, you'll talk about other paths, which may include going back to your surgeon or seeing a pain specialist. Research on decompression after surgery is limited, and results vary.

Other options people discuss after surgery

Depending on the cause, options can include targeted physical therapy, medication review, injections, nerve procedures, spinal cord stimulation and, sometimes, further surgery. A pain specialist or your surgeon can explain which apply to you.

Questions? Call (801) 491-8688.

Questions about pain after surgery

Can I have spinal decompression after back surgery?

Sometimes. The clinic's guidelines list ongoing back pain more than 6 months after surgery as a situation where decompression may be considered. People with screws, rods or other hardware in the spine, or a fusion in the last 6 months, generally are not candidates. The consult decides, and your surgeon should be part of the conversation.

What does "failed back surgery syndrome" mean?

It's a common label for back or leg pain that continues or comes back after spine surgery. Many specialists dislike the term because it suggests the surgery was done wrong, which often isn't the case. A newer proposed name is "persistent spinal pain syndrome" (Pain Medicine, 2021; Cleveland Clinic).

Should I talk to my surgeon first?

Yes. Your surgeon knows exactly what was done and what hardware, if any, is in place. Bring your operative report or a summary to your consultation if you can.

I had a fusion years ago. Am I automatically excluded?

Metal hardware in the spine is on the clinic's list of reasons decompression usually isn't recommended. Bring your records and ask. If decompression isn't appropriate, you'll hear that and talk about other options.

Request a free consultation

Prefer to talk now? Call (801) 491-8688. Or send this short form and the office will call you back during business hours, usually within 2 business days.

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This website is operated for Stapel Family Chiropractic (Springville Disc Center) in Springville, Utah. Care is provided by Dr. Gordon Stapel, DC, a licensed chiropractic physician. About this site.