Persistent Spinal Pain Syndrome

Posted by Dennis R Escalera on 31st May 2025

Managing Post-Surgical and Chronic Spinal Pain Naturally

What Is Persistent Spinal Pain Syndrome?

Formerly known as “Failed Back Surgery Syndrome” (FBSS), Persistent Spinal Pain Syndrome (PSPS) is a condition where a person continues to experience chronic back or leg pain even after undergoing spine surgery. The updated name, introduced by the International Association for the Study of Pain (IASP), reflects the complex and often multifactorial nature of ongoing spinal pain, regardless of whether surgery was involved.

PSPS is classified into two subtypes:

Type 1 (without surgery): Pain results from structural or functional spine issues but without a history of spinal surgery.
Type 2 (with surgery): Pain persists after spinal procedures like discectomy, laminectomy, or spinal fusion.

Causes and Contributing Factors

Persistent spinal pain can stem from a variety of sources, including:

Scar tissue formation around spinal nerves after surgery
Incomplete surgical outcomes
Recurrent disc herniation
Spinal instability or degeneration
Nerve damage
Psychosocial factors such as depression or anxiety

In many cases, it's not a single issue but a combination of physical and neurological changes that contribute to ongoing pain.

Common Symptoms

The symptoms of PSPS can vary but often include:

Chronic lower back pain
Leg pain (sciatica-like)
Tingling, numbness, or burning sensations
Muscle weakness
Stiffness or reduced mobility

These symptoms can interfere with sleep, work, and daily activities, making pain management essential for quality of life.

Conventional Treatments

Managing PSPS is challenging due to its complex nature. Treatment strategies may include:

Medications: NSAIDs, neuropathic pain relievers (e.g., gabapentin), or muscle relaxants
Physical therapy: To maintain mobility and strengthen supporting muscles
Epidural steroid injections: To reduce inflammation
Spinal cord stimulation (SCS): An implantable device that disrupts pain signals
Psychological therapy: For managing the emotional aspects of chronic pain

However, these treatments may not work for everyone or may come with side effects, which is why many people seek complementary approaches.

The Role of Topical Pain Relief with Nature’s Ingredients

Topical creams and lotions offer a non-invasive, localized option for pain relief that can complement traditional treatments. When formulated with nature's ingredients, these topicals can target inflammation, nerve pain, and muscle tension without systemic side effects.

How Topicals Help:

Deliver active ingredients directly to the site of pain
Avoid gastrointestinal or organ-related side effects common in oral medications
Provide quick-acting relief for surface-level and subdermal issues

Beneficial Nature-Based Ingredients for PSPS Relief

Here are some plant-based and naturally derived ingredients commonly found in high-quality topical pain relief products:

Arnica Montana: Known for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. It helps reduce swelling and bruising in soft tissue injuries and muscle pain.
Capsaicin (from chili peppers): Helps desensitize pain receptors over time, particularly effective for nerve-related pain.
Menthol: Provides a cooling sensation that distracts from deeper pain signals and increases blood flow to the area.
Comfrey Root Extract: Traditionally used for joint and muscle pain; may help accelerate tissue repair.
White Willow Bark: Contains salicin, a natural precursor to aspirin, known for reducing inflammation and pain.
Turmeric (Curcumin): A powerful anti-inflammatory that may help modulate modulate inflammatory pathways involved in chronic pain.
Boswellia Serrata: Often used in Ayurvedic medicine, it may help reduce inflammation in joints and spinal tissues.

Application Tips for Maximum Benefit

To get the best results from a nature-based topical pain relief product:

Apply 2–3 times per day consistently
Massage gently into the affected area to enhance absorption
Combine with physical therapy or stretching routines when possible
Look for products that are free from parabens, artificial dyes, and synthetic fragrances

Lifestyle Adjustments That Support Healing

In addition to using topical solutions, those with PSPS can benefit from a holistic approach that includes:

Low-impact exercise (e.g., swimming, walking, or yoga)
Mind-body therapies like mindfulness or cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
Heat and cold therapy to manage flare-ups
Ergonomic improvements at work or home
Nutritional support with anti-inflammatory foods

When to See a Specialist

While topical creams can offer meaningful relief, they are best used as part of a broader pain management plan. Individuals with worsening neurological symptoms, loss of bladder or bowel control, or severe mobility issues should consult a spine specialist immediately.

Final Thoughts

Persistent Spinal Pain Syndrome can feel like a long, uphill battle—especially when surgery has failed to deliver lasting relief. However, combining conventional treatments with topical solutions made from nature’s ingredients provides a well-rounded, safe, and effective path to pain relief. These natural products support the body’s own healing mechanisms, reduce inflammation, and make daily life more manageable.

In the next article, we’ll explore how nature’s ingredients can also help with Cervical Radiculopathy, a common but often overlooked spinal nerve condition that affects the neck and arms.

References for Persistent Spinal Pain Syndrome Article:

International Association for the Study of Pain (IASP) –
https://www.iasp-pain.org/publications/pain-research-forum/papers-of-the-week/paper/treatment-modalities-for-patients-with-persistent-spinal-pain-syndrome-type-ii-a-systematic-review-and-network-meta-analysis/
National Library of Medicine – Persistent Spinal Pain Syndrome: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8058770/
Mayo Clinic – Back Pain:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/back-pain/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20369911