The following are a list of the general causes for symptoms following low back surgery: Structural and mechanical problems with the spine itself, related or unrelated to the initial surgery, poor body mechanics and reconditioning, alternative diagnoses that were the actual cause of the initial back pain or a contributing cause which were not diagnosed initially, iatrogenic causes due to the surgery or surgical procedure, psychological variables, and medication problems. In short, there are multiple factors that can contribute to failed back surgical syndrome. Most patients with failed back surgical syndrome have a peripheral, mechanical, structural lesion that is the source of the symptoms. Therefore these patients generally respond well to chiropractic care. Failed Back Surgery...Can we Help??? Our clinics may be able to help with some of the complications, and problematic outcomes associated with spinal surgery. First and foremost, a person considering surgery should be fully educated on the risk to benefit ratio, exactly what is being done, and what possible outcomes a person can expect. The best approach, when considering surgery, would be to start with conservative care first. Consider your alternatives to surgery. If you get no results there, then progressively move up the ladder of choices towards surgery. Follow these general suggestions: Start slowly-If you're out of condition from lack of activity. Pace yourself and don't overdo. Make smart moves-Generally..swimming and other water exercises are safest for your back. If you golf, protect your back by shortening your backswing. Avoid Activities that involve a lot of twisting, quick stops and starts, and impact on hard surfaces, such as tennis/racketball.