CONDITION
Post-Laminectomy Syndrome
Post-laminectomy syndrome, also called Failed Back Surgery Syndrome (FBSS), occurs when pain persists or returns after spine surgery. Instead of relief, patients may continue to experience back or leg pain, nerve irritation, or scar tissue discomfort. At Silver Pain Centre, our specialists provide OHIP-covered assessments and advanced treatments to address lingering pain and restore quality of life.
What is Post-Laminectomy Syndrome?
This condition happens when spine surgery does not fully relieve pain, or when new pain develops afterwards. Causes can include nerve compression, scar tissue, joint instability, or recurrent disc problems. Patients often describe persistent low back pain, leg pain similar to sciatica, or burning nerve-related pain that limits movement and daily function.
Ongoing low back pain that persists after spine surgery
Leg pain similar to sciatica, often shooting down one or both legs
Pins and needles, numbness, or weakness in the leg or foot
Burning or stabbing nerve pain that limits movement
Pain that worsens with bending, twisting, or sitting for long periods
Reduced quality of life, with difficulty walking, sleeping, or exercising
Why Does Post-Laminectomy Syndrome Occur?
Post-laminectomy syndrome usually develops because underlying pain generators weren’t fully resolved during surgery, or new problems arose as the spine healed. This condition can be complex, involving both structural and nerve-related issues.
Some of the most common contributing factors include:
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Scar Tissue (Epidural Fibrosis): Healing after surgery may cause scar tissue that presses on or irritates nearby nerves.
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Residual or Recurrent Disc Herniation: A disc may re-herniate, or some of the disc material may still compress a nerve after surgery.
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Spinal Instability: Removing bone, ligaments, or discs can sometimes destabilize the spine, placing strain on nearby joints and nerves.
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Nerve Damage: If a nerve was severely compressed before surgery, it may not fully recover, leading to chronic neuropathic pain.
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Adjacent Segment Disease: Stress on discs and joints above or below the surgical site can accelerate degeneration and cause new pain.
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Other Causes: Poor posture, muscle weakness, or biomechanical issues may continue to strain the spine, even after surgery.
At Silver Pain Centre, we look beyond temporary pain relief. Our focus is on identifying the exact nerve or tissue involved, tailoring treatment so that progress is precise and measurable.
How We Diagnose & Treat at Silver Pain Centre
Our specialists tailor care plans with imaging, physical assessment, and minimally invasive treatments, such as:
Joint Injections (Steroid or Viscosupplementation): Reduce inflammation and improve mobility.
Nerve Blocks: Target pain signals around affected joints.
Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA): For chronic joint pain resistant to other therapies.
Peripheral Nerve Stimulation (PNS): Restores nerve function for stubborn pain.
Medication Optimization: Safe, guided adjustments for long-term management.
When to Seek Help & How We Can Support You
If you have undergone spine surgery but are still experiencing persistent pain, it may be time to see a specialist. Post-laminectomy syndrome can cause nerve pain, muscle weakness, or mobility issues that don’t improve with rest, stretching, or over-the-counter medications. Without proper treatment, these symptoms can worsen over time and limit your quality of life.
At Silver Pain Centre, we provide comprehensive, OHIP-covered consultations designed to help you find lasting relief. Here’s how we make a difference:
Collaborative Care
Fast Access
Advanced Diagnostics
Using state-of-the-art imaging such as MRI, ultrasound, and fluoroscopy, we pinpoint the exact source of your pain so that treatments are precise and effective.
Non-Surgical Options
From minimally invasive injections and nerve blocks to advanced therapies like radiofrequency ablation and neuromodulation, we focus on targeted treatments that relieve pain, restore mobility, and reduce reliance on long-term medication.
Ongoing Support
We track your progress closely and adjust your treatment plan as needed, ensuring that your recovery and quality of life steadily improve.
Interventional pain procedures performed to date
Years of specialized pain management experience
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Patient-reported satisfaction based on post-visit surveys
Image-guided injections performed monthly
Explore Our Full Range of Pain Management Solutions
Learn about our pain management treatments and explore the options available at Silver Pain Centre.
Book A Consultation By Completing A Self-Referral Today!
Living with ongoing pain after spine surgery can be frustrating, but you don’t have to manage it alone. The team at Silver Pain Centre specializes in advanced treatments for persistent back and nerve pain, including Post-Laminectomy Syndrome. Complete a self-referral and we’ll review it within 72 hours to schedule your OHIP-covered consultation. Appointments are available in person or virtually for your convenience.