Treatments for Post-Laminectomy Syndrome
Conservative & Non-Surgical Treatments
These are the foundational treatments we always begin with, aiming to restore function and reduce pain without additional spine surgery:
Physical Therapy
Exercise interventions designed to strengthen the spine’s supporting muscles, improve flexibility, and reduce pressure on irritated nerves.
Medication Management
Anti-inflammatory medications, nerve pain relievers, and muscle relaxants to reduce pain and improve daily comfort.
Epidural Steroid Injections
Steroids are injected into the epidural space to reduce inflammation and nerve root irritation—commonly used for back pain, neck pain, and sciatica.
Nerve Blocks
Targeted injections to block pain signals from specific nerves, offering both pain relief and diagnostic insight.
Lumbar Radiofrequency Neurotomy (Rhizotomy)
A minimally invasive treatment that uses radiofrequency energy to interrupt pain signals from irritated facet joints.
Ketamine Infusion Therapy
A newer option for chronic pain that has not responded to other therapies; ketamine works by calming overactive nerve signaling pathways.
mPNS / Magnetic Peripheral Nerve Stimulation
A non-invasive device therapy that stimulates peripheral nerves to reduce pain and restore nerve function.
BOTOX® Injections
Used for certain types of muscle-related pain, especially when chronic spasm contributes to post-surgical discomfort.
Bursa Injections
Target inflammation in bursae—fluid-filled sacs that cushion joints—which can be aggravated following spine surgery.
Carpal Tunnel Injections
Offered for patients with concurrent median nerve compression, which may complicate or mimic symptoms of post-laminectomy syndrome.
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)
A non-invasive procedure that stimulates brain areas involved in pain perception—especially helpful for patients with centralized or long-term pain.
Lifestyle & Posture Coaching
Guidance on ergonomics, movement patterns, and daily habits that can reduce strain on the spine and improve recovery.
Advanced Interventional & Minimally Invasive Options
These treatments offer targeted, high-tech solutions for patients who need more than conservative care—but aren’t ready or don’t require traditional surgery:
Spinal Cord Stimulator (SCS)
A small device implanted near the spinal cord to block pain signals before they reach the brain. Highly effective for chronic post-surgical spine pain.
Spinal Adhesiolysis
Also called epidural lysis of adhesions, this technique breaks up scar tissue that may be compressing nerves and contributing to ongoing pain.
Intrathecal Drug Delivery System
A pain pump that delivers medication directly to the spinal cord, allowing for lower doses and fewer side effects compared to oral drugs.
Curonix Freedom® Peripheral Neuromodulation
A wearable neurostimulation system used to target peripheral nerves and reduce pain signals—particularly helpful for nerve-related pain after surgery.
When Is Surgery Needed Again?
Sometimes a second, carefully planned minimally invasive spine surgery may be necessary—especially if imaging shows a clear issue like new bone spurs, failed fusion, or narrowing in the spinal canal. Procedures like laminotomy, discectomy, or kyphoplasty can sometimes improve outcomes when other treatments haven’t worked.
However, surgery is never our first recommendation. Our goal is always to help you find relief with the most effective and least disruptive care plan possible.
