Stretching Can Offer Relief For Failed Back Surgery | BEST

It can be incredibly disappointing to experience ongoing pain after undergoing neck or back surgery, but many people have to deal with a condition known as failed back surgery syndrome (FBSS). This refers to new or continued symptoms that occur as the result of complications related to spine surgery. 

If you are dealing with FBSS, your physician may refer you to a physical therapist who can help you manage your pain with a variety of exercises, including stretching. 

Stretching Treatment For FBSS

While there are many potential causes for FBSS that can make developing an effective treatment plan difficult, gentle stretching methods have been shown to help patients manage symptoms. Just a few options include:

  • Sedative Stretching. A relatively new concept, this method involves lightly sedating the patient. This allows a team of physicians to stretch various sections of the patient’s body where the pain is felt. They can guide the limbs and the spine to move with a full range of motion without the patent being subjected to pain
  • Restorative Yoga. Gentle yoga poses may provide relief from neck and back pain while deep breathing and mindfulness can promote relaxation and better body awareness. 
  • Tai Chi. this method of exercise began in ancient china and involves low relaxed movements to stretch and strengthen the muscles, improve flexibility and increase circulation. 

Work closely with your doctor and physical therapist to develop a personalized stretching routine that is best for your particular needs and state of health. Listen to your body and stop at the first sign of discomfort. 

Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery For FBSS

If stretching and other conservative treatments have failed to provide pain relief, minimally invasive spine surgery at BEST Health System may help you get back to your daily routine. Find out if you are a candidate for one of our outpatient procedures that treat a range of spine conditions, including FBSS. our procedures can be performed with a less than one-inch incision and offer our patients a shorter recovery time and less risk of complication compared to traditional open neck or back surgery. 

Contact a member of our caring team to get more information about your treatment options and to see if you are a potential candidate.