You had back surgery with the goal of alleviating chronic pain and regain your quality of life. It was a significant decision, but now that you’ve healed, you still have pain.
Failed back surgery syndrome (FBSS) can happen despite everyone’s best intentions, and you’re not alone. Up to 40% of patients experience continued pain after surgery, leaving them feeling disappointed and uncertain about their future.
Eric Fanaee, MD, and our pain management team in Bethpage, Smithtown, and West Islip, New York, are here to help. We specialize in diagnosing and treating back pain, and we can help you pick up the pieces after a failed back surgery and navigate your path to recovery. Here’s how to get started.
Seek emotional support
Dealing with failed back surgery can be emotionally challenging. It’s normal to feel frustrated, angry, or even depressed. Seeking emotional support can help you begin to understand and process your feelings.
Consider reaching out to loved ones or joining a support group to connect with others who’ve experienced similar setbacks. These groups can offer empathy, advice, and guidance to help you cope with your emotions.
Set realistic expectations
After experiencing a failed back surgery, knowing what to expect is challenging. It’s essential to recognize that healing takes time. Set realistic expectations for your recovery and understand that it may involve a combination of treatments.
Be patient with yourself and celebrate small victories along the way. As you heal, focus on improving your quality of life and adapting to your new circumstances.
Communicate with your health care team
Following failed back surgery, open and honest communication with your care team is crucial. Schedule an appointment with your surgeon to discuss the outcome of your surgery and any ongoing complications you’re dealing with.
Your surgeon may recommend additional tests or refer you to pain management specialists who can work to address your pain and improve your mobility. Remember, effective communication is vital to finding the right solutions for you.
Explore second opinions
Don’t hesitate to seek a second opinion if you have concerns about your healthcare team’s recommendations. Different specialists have different perspectives and treatment approaches.
Dr. Fanaee and our team specialize in noninvasive and minimally invasive pain management, and we’re here to help you find new avenues for recovery. We evaluate your condition and medical history to develop a treatment plan for your unique needs.
Investigate nonsurgical treatment options
Failed back surgery is disheartening, and it’s important to remember that surgery isn’t always the only option. Dr. Fanaee guides you through alternatives, which can include pain medication, radiofrequency ablation, physical therapy, spinal cord stimulation, and other pain management techniques.
Adopt a holistic approach to healing
Taking care of your mental and emotional health is just as important when you’re picking up the pieces after failed back surgery. Along with physical treatments, embracing a holistic approach to healing can positively impact your recovery.
Focus on activities that promote your overall well-being, like engaging in gentle exercise, practicing mindfulness or meditation, and getting good quality sleep.
Experiencing failed back surgery can be devastating — but there are still options available to help you regain control of your life. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Fanaee to learn more about available treatments and find a path to recovery that’s right for you.
Call our visit request line at 631-265-2020 or book an appointment online now…