How Spinal Cord Stimulators Help with Failed Back Surgery Syndrome (FBSS)

Recovering from back surgery only to face persistent pain can be disheartening. This condition, known as failed back surgery syndrome (FBSS), affects many patients who expected relief but instead continue struggling with chronic discomfort. Fortunately, spinal cord stimulation offers new hope. At Greater Austin Pain Center, our experienced back pain doctors use this advanced treatment to help patients manage FBSS more effectively and regain control of their lives.

What Is Failed Back Surgery Syndrome?

Failed back surgery syndrome isn’t necessarily the result of a botched procedure. Instead, it refers to pain that continues or recurs after spine surgery. It may be caused by scar tissue, nerve damage, hardware irritation, or unresolved spinal issues. 

Common symptoms include:

• Persistent low back pain or leg pain
• Radiating nerve pain (sciatica)
• Numbness or tingling
• Burning or stabbing sensations

FBSS can significantly limit quality of life, especially for those who have already undergone one or more surgeries, expecting permanent relief.

Why Spinal Cord Stimulators Are Ideal for FBSS

Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) is one of the most effective nonsurgical treatments available for patients with FBSS. Instead of masking symptoms with medication or risking another surgery, SCS works by targeting the source of the nerve pain directly.

A spinal cord stimulator delivers gentle electrical pulses to the spinal cord, interrupting pain signals before they reach the brain. For many people with FBSS, these signals are related to damaged or irritated nerves that no longer respond to traditional treatments. SCS changes the way the brain perceives those signals, reducing or even eliminating the sensation of pain.

Specific Benefits for FBSS Patients

Pain Relief Where Other Treatments Fail

Spinal cord stimulation provides pain relief even when other therapies have fallen short. Many FBSS patients experience a significant reduction in their symptoms without relying on long-term medication use. This is particularly helpful for nerve-related pain that doesn’t respond to injections, physical therapy, or revision surgeries.

Minimally Invasive with Long-Term Results

The SCS procedure is minimally invasive, meaning there are no large incisions or extended recovery times. For patients who’ve already been through one or more back surgeries, avoiding further surgical trauma is a major benefit. Many experience ongoing relief that allows them to remain active and independent.

Personalized and Adjustable

Every FBSS patient’s pain is different, and spinal cord stimulators allow for personalized programming. The stimulation can be adjusted in real-time to cover changing pain patterns, making it a flexible and adaptable solution for long-term management.

How the Spinal Cord Stimulator Process Works

Trial Phase

The process begins with a trial period, where a temporary stimulator is placed. This lets you experience the therapy before committing to a permanent device. Many FBSS patients notice a dramatic decrease in pain within the first few days of the trial.

Permanent Implantation

If the trial is successful, a permanent stimulator is implanted under the skin. This outpatient procedure takes about an hour, and patients typically return home the same day.

Programming & Follow-Up

Once the device is in place, it’s programmed to your specific needs. You’ll have a remote control to adjust intensity and coverage areas, ensuring the relief fits your pain pattern.

Who Should Consider SCS for FBSS?

Spinal cord stimulation is recommended for FBSS patients who:

• Have undergone one or more spinal surgeries with ongoing pain
• Experience nerve-related pain, such as burning or radiating sensations
• Have not responded to medications, therapy, or injections
• Want to avoid additional surgery
• Are seeking a non-opioid, long-term pain solution

Your back pain doctor at Greater Austin Pain Center will evaluate your medical history and symptoms to determine if SCS is a safe and effective option for you.

Don’t Let FBSS Define Your Life

If you’re living with failed back surgery syndrome, you’re not out of options. Spinal cord stimulators offer a proven way to regain comfort, restore mobility, and reduce your dependence on pain medications. We welcome patients throughout the Austin, Dripping Springs, San Marcos, Kyle, and throughout the Austin area.

Schedule your consultation today to speak with an experienced back pain doctor in Austin and explore whether spinal cord stimulation could be the key to managing your chronic pain.