Published by Commons Clinic. [Web version](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/articles/persistent-symptoms-after-spine-surgery/) Reviewer names are abbreviated. Patient reviews describe individual experiences. Review counts describe source records, not unique patients or clinical outcomes; the acquired snapshot may not include complete platform histories. Clinical education and patient accounts do not replace a consultation. Spine # Still having symptoms after spine surgery? 7 questions for follow-up Persistent symptoms after spine surgery deserve a clear follow-up plan. The most useful starting point is to distinguish what never improved, what improved and returned, and what is genuinely new. Published by Commons Clinic · Updated October 21, 2026 · 4 min read [Questions to ask ↓](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/articles/persistent-symptoms-after-spine-surgery/#consultation-questions) [Patient experiences ↓](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/articles/persistent-symptoms-after-spine-surgery/#patient-experiences) In this guide 1. [Separate an urgent change from a follow-up question](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/articles/persistent-symptoms-after-spine-surgery/#guide-section-1) 2. [Describe the course, not just today's pain score](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/articles/persistent-symptoms-after-spine-surgery/#guide-section-2) 3. [Revisit the original goal of the operation](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/articles/persistent-symptoms-after-spine-surgery/#guide-section-3) 4. [Ask what an examination or new test would change](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/articles/persistent-symptoms-after-spine-surgery/#guide-section-4) 5. [Make rehabilitation feedback specific](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/articles/persistent-symptoms-after-spine-surgery/#guide-section-5) 6. [Discuss options without jumping straight to another procedure](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/articles/persistent-symptoms-after-spine-surgery/#guide-section-6) 7. [Agree on who owns the next step](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/articles/persistent-symptoms-after-spine-surgery/#guide-section-7) [Go to your consultation questions ↓](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/articles/persistent-symptoms-after-spine-surgery/#consultation-questions) ## 1. Separate an urgent change from a follow-up question New bladder or bowel dysfunction, loss of sensation around the saddle area, or rapidly worsening weakness requires emergency assessment. After surgery, follow your discharge instructions for fever, wound drainage, increasing redness, and other concerning changes. Do not wait for a scheduled visit when a symptom calls for urgent attention. Keep the operation date, procedure name, and treating team's contact details accessible. Tell an urgent-care team that you recently had spine surgery, even if the new symptom seems unrelated. A postoperative timeline is important context for assessment. Sources: [Spine surgery — discharge](https://medlineplus.gov/ency/patientinstructions/000313.htm) · [Cauda Equina Syndrome](https://www.aans.org/patients/conditions-treatments/cauda-equina-syndrome/) ## 2. Describe the course, not just today's pain score Start with the symptom that led to surgery. Did it remain unchanged, improve partly, disappear and return, or change location? Then describe any new symptoms separately. A brief timeline helps avoid blending several different problems into the phrase the surgery did not work. Use examples from ordinary activities: how long you can sit through a meal, whether your foot catches, or whether sleep is interrupted. Record medication changes and rehabilitation changes alongside symptoms. A short, consistent record is usually easier to discuss than pages of unstructured notes. Sources: [Spine surgery — discharge](https://medlineplus.gov/ency/patientinstructions/000313.htm) · [Back Pain: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Steps to Take](https://www.niams.nih.gov/health-topics/back-pain/diagnosis-treatment-and-steps-to-take) ## 3. Revisit the original goal of the operation Ask the surgeon to restate what the procedure was intended to accomplish. Creating more space for a nerve, stabilizing a segment, and addressing alignment are different objectives. Ask which symptoms were expected to improve and which were uncertain before the operation. This is not about assigning blame. It is about identifying the unanswered question now. If your understanding of the original goal differs from the explanation at follow-up, say so. Ask the team to review the operative report with you and explain what was actually performed compared with the original plan. Sources: [Spinal Fusion](https://www.orthoinfo.org/treatment/spinal-fusion/) · [Lumbar Spinal Stenosis](https://www.aans.org/patients/conditions-treatments/lumbar-spinal-stenosis/) ## 4. Ask what an examination or new test would change Further assessment should be tied to a clinical question. Ask what the clinician is looking for on examination, whether existing imaging is sufficient, and what a new test could change in your care. A scan can add information without explaining every symptom on its own. If several clinicians are involved, ask who will review all results together. Request an explanation of both reassuring findings and unresolved concerns. It helps to leave with a sentence such as: we are checking this specific possibility because it would change this part of the plan. Sources: [Back Pain: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Steps to Take](https://www.niams.nih.gov/health-topics/back-pain/diagnosis-treatment-and-steps-to-take) · [Low back pain and sciatica in over 16s: assessment and management — recommendations](https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng59/chapter/recommendations) ## 5. Make rehabilitation feedback specific Bring the therapist's observations, current exercises, and any restrictions from the surgical team. Explain what happens during an activity, later that day, and afterward. Ask whether the current program needs adjustment or whether the change warrants surgical reassessment before progression. Avoid increasing activity simply to prove progress or stopping everything indefinitely out of uncertainty. Ask the team to agree on a manageable next step and a review point. If an instruction from therapy appears to conflict with a surgical restriction, request clarification rather than choosing between them yourself. Sources: [Spine surgery — discharge](https://medlineplus.gov/ency/patientinstructions/000313.htm) · [Pacing](https://www.rnoh.nhs.uk/patients-and-visitors/patient-information-guides/pacing) ## 6. Discuss options without jumping straight to another procedure The next conversation may involve observation, rehabilitation changes, medication review, further testing, another opinion, or a procedure. Ask what supports each option and what would count as a useful result. A recommendation for additional treatment should explain its target and expected limits. If revision surgery is proposed, request a clear account of what would be different from the first operation and why that difference might matter. Ask about the alternative of not proceeding now. A reassuring testimonial cannot substitute for an explanation of the problem being treated. Sources: [Back Pain: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Steps to Take](https://www.niams.nih.gov/health-topics/back-pain/diagnosis-treatment-and-steps-to-take) · [10 Questions to Ask Before Having an Operation](https://www.facs.org/for-patients/surgery-faq/10-questions/) ## 7. Agree on who owns the next step Before leaving, identify the clinician coordinating follow-up, the next review date, and the symptoms that should prompt earlier contact. If another specialist is being consulted, clarify what question they are being asked to answer and who will discuss the result with you. We encourage patients to bring their priorities back into the conversation. Persistent symptoms can affect work, confidence, sleep, and family routines. A useful plan acknowledges those effects while making the next clinical decision specific. Ask for the plan in writing so that everyone involved is working from the same understanding. Sources: [Spine surgery — discharge](https://medlineplus.gov/ency/patientinstructions/000313.htm) · [10 Questions to Ask Before Having an Operation](https://www.facs.org/for-patients/surgery-faq/10-questions/) Make the most of your visit ## Questions to bring to your consultation Choose the questions that matter most to you. Bring them along, and ask us to explain anything that is unclear. - Which of my current symptoms needs urgent assessment? - How does this symptom pattern compare with the goal of my original operation? - What question would new imaging or testing answer? - Do my surgical restrictions and rehabilitation instructions still agree? - What alternatives should we consider before another procedure? - If revision surgery is proposed, what would it address differently? - Who is coordinating follow-up, and when will we reassess progress? ## Sources & further reading - [Spine surgery — discharge](https://medlineplus.gov/ency/patientinstructions/000313.htm) NIH / MedlinePlus - [Cauda Equina Syndrome](https://www.aans.org/patients/conditions-treatments/cauda-equina-syndrome/) American Association of Neurological Surgeons - [Back Pain: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Steps to Take](https://www.niams.nih.gov/health-topics/back-pain/diagnosis-treatment-and-steps-to-take) NIH / NIAMS - [Spinal Fusion](https://www.orthoinfo.org/treatment/spinal-fusion/) AAOS OrthoInfo - [Lumbar Spinal Stenosis](https://www.aans.org/patients/conditions-treatments/lumbar-spinal-stenosis/) American Association of Neurological Surgeons - [Low back pain and sciatica in over 16s: assessment and management — recommendations](https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng59/chapter/recommendations) NICE - [Pacing](https://www.rnoh.nhs.uk/patients-and-visitors/patient-information-guides/pacing) Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital NHS Trust - [10 Questions to Ask Before Having an Operation](https://www.facs.org/for-patients/surgery-faq/10-questions/) American College of Surgeons We use these medical sources to help explain your options and prepare you for a conversation with our team. Our guides feature our own clinicians; patient reviews describe individual experiences. [Read as Markdown](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/articles/persistent-symptoms-after-spine-surgery/index.md) Meet our team ## People behind your care. [**Amandeep Bhalla, MD** Orthopedic Surgeon, Spine](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/physicians/amandeep-bhalla-md/) [More about Amandeep Bhalla ↗](https://commonsclinic.com/physicians/amandeep-bhalla-m-d/) [**Brandon A. Ortega, MD** Orthopedic Surgeon, Spine](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/physicians/brandon-ortega-md/) [More about Brandon A. Ortega ↗](https://commonsclinic.com/physicians/brandon-ortega-md/) [**Brett Pugh, PT, DPT** Licensed Physical Therapist](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/physicians/brett-pugh-pt-dpt/) [More about Brett Pugh ↗](https://commonsclinic.com/physicians/brett-pugh-pt-dpt/) [**Leonel Hunt, MD** Orthopedic Surgeon, Spine](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/physicians/leonel-hunt/) [More about Leonel Hunt ↗](https://commonsclinic.com/physicians/leonel-hunt/) [**Mina Sidarous, PT** Licensed Physical Therapist](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/physicians/mina-sidarous-pt/) [More about Mina Sidarous ↗](https://commonsclinic.com/physicians/mina-sidarous-pt/) Explore our clinicians, then talk with us about your symptoms, goals, and the care you need. Patient experiences ## Meet the clinician. *Hear the experience.* Read how patients describe their care, then bring the questions that matter to your own visit. Each portrait stays with that clinician’s accounts. [![Amandeep Bhalla, MD](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/assets/amandeep-bhalla-m-d.jpg)](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/physicians/amandeep-bhalla-md/) ## [Amandeep Bhalla, MD](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/physicians/amandeep-bhalla-md/) Orthopedic Surgeon, Spine [Biography & all reviews →](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/physicians/amandeep-bhalla-md/) [Commons Clinic profile ↗](https://commonsclinic.com/physicians/amandeep-bhalla-m-d/) Excerpt > I highly recommend Amandeep Bhalla, MD Spine Surgeon and staff. Smooth process from appointment to treatment. B. Robinson Rating: 5/5 · Source: Google · Date: December 2, 2025 [Reviewer’s Google activity](https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/106993523668980501221/place/ChIJ8YAf0pAz3YARGxtBH2uG-xA) Source link type: reviewer place Attributed clinician: Amandeep Bhalla, MD The reviewer shares their experience of care. Excerpt > Dr. Bhalla is an excellent spinal surgeon and he has an excellent staff. J. DDS Rating: 5/5 · Source: Google · Date: June 3, 2025 [Reviewer’s Google activity](https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/107648056448553504910/place/ChIJ8YAf0pAz3YARGxtBH2uG-xA) Source link type: reviewer place Attributed clinician: Amandeep Bhalla, MD The reviewer shares their experience of care. Excerpt > Dr Bhalla is very professional and follows thru after surgery. Happy I choose > Him for my back surgery H. Inskeep Rating: 5/5 · Source: Google · Date: June 3, 2025 [Reviewer’s Google activity](https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/100883640977851867830/place/ChIJ8YAf0pAz3YARGxtBH2uG-xA) Source link type: reviewer place Attributed clinician: Amandeep Bhalla, MD The reviewer shares their experience of care. Excerpt > Excellent surgeon- had lower back surgery 13 months ago(anterior lumbar inter body fusion L-5 S-1) after experiencing severe pain. J. Falco Rating: 5/5 · Source: Google · Date: April 23, 2025 [Reviewer’s Google activity](https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/108855983304900287340/place/ChIJ8YAf0pAz3YARGxtBH2uG-xA) Source link type: reviewer place Attributed clinician: Amandeep Bhalla, MD The reviewer shares their experience of care. [![Brandon A. Ortega, MD](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/assets/brandon-ortega-md.jpg)](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/physicians/brandon-ortega-md/) ## [Brandon A. Ortega, MD](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/physicians/brandon-ortega-md/) Orthopedic Surgeon, Spine [Biography & all reviews →](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/physicians/brandon-ortega-md/) [Commons Clinic profile ↗](https://commonsclinic.com/physicians/brandon-ortega-md/) Excerpt > I highly recommend Dr Ortega if you are considering spinal surgery. A. Iribarren Rating: 5/5 · Source: Google · Date: May 16, 2025 [Reviewer’s Google activity](https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/114468541044946748023/place/ChIJTxvcSygz3YARoijXeBhzhh8) Source link type: reviewer place Attributed clinician: Brandon A. Ortega, MD The reviewer shares their experience of care. [![Leonel Hunt, MD](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/assets/leonel-hunt.jpg)](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/physicians/leonel-hunt/) ## [Leonel Hunt, MD](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/physicians/leonel-hunt/) Orthopedic Surgeon, Spine [Biography & all reviews →](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/physicians/leonel-hunt/) [Commons Clinic profile ↗](https://commonsclinic.com/physicians/leonel-hunt/) Excerpt > I alone, appreciate the time and effort he put into my back surgery. He's a caring doctor too. T. coder Rating: 5/5 · Source: Google · Date: September 9, 2019 [Reviewer’s Google activity](https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/102928525982946980763/place/ChIJF7fYUkm5woAR9WJ_99t9UR4) Source link type: reviewer place Attributed clinician: Leonel Hunt, MD The reviewer shares their experience of care. Keep exploring ## Your next *good question.* More guidance to help you understand your options and plan your next step. Spine ### [7 questions to clarify an opinion about spine surgery](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/articles/spine-surgery-second-opinion/) A second opinion can confirm a plan or reveal a useful difference. Prepare the same records and questions so you can understand where the recommendations agree—and why they may differ. [Read the guide](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/articles/spine-surgery-second-opinion/) Spine ### [8 things to compare before choosing a spine surgeon](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/articles/choosing-spine-surgeon/) Build your shortlist around your condition, the explanation you receive, and the care you will need. These eight comparisons can help you turn a broad search into a useful consultation. [Read the guide](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/articles/choosing-spine-surgeon/) Spine ### [6 bone-health questions before screws, grafts or fusion](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/articles/bone-health-before-spine-surgery/) Strong surgical planning includes the bone that must support implants or heal. If osteoporosis is suspected, ask how it should be assessed and addressed before an operation. [Read the guide](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/articles/bone-health-before-spine-surgery/) Meet the clinicians ## Explore your *next conversation.* [![Amandeep Bhalla, MD](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/assets/amandeep-bhalla-m-d.jpg)](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/physicians/amandeep-bhalla-md/) Orthopedic Surgeon, Spine ### [Amandeep Bhalla, MD](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/physicians/amandeep-bhalla-md/) Long Beach – Bixby Knolls [Meet Amandeep Bhalla](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/physicians/amandeep-bhalla-md/) [![Brandon A. Ortega, MD](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/assets/brandon-ortega-md.jpg)](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/physicians/brandon-ortega-md/) Orthopedic Surgeon, Spine ### [Brandon A. Ortega, MD](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/physicians/brandon-ortega-md/) Long Beach – Douglas Park [Meet Brandon A. Ortega](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/physicians/brandon-ortega-md/) [![Brett Pugh, PT, DPT](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/assets/brett-pugh-pt-dpt.png)](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/physicians/brett-pugh-pt-dpt/) Licensed Physical Therapist ### [Brett Pugh, PT, DPT](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/physicians/brett-pugh-pt-dpt/) Santa Monica [Meet Brett Pugh](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/physicians/brett-pugh-pt-dpt/) [![Leonel Hunt, MD](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/assets/leonel-hunt.jpg)](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/physicians/leonel-hunt/) Orthopedic Surgeon, Spine ### [Leonel Hunt, MD](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/physicians/leonel-hunt/) Beverly Hills [Meet Leonel Hunt](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/physicians/leonel-hunt/) [![Mina Sidarous, PT](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/assets/mina-sidarous-pt.png)](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/physicians/mina-sidarous-pt/) Licensed Physical Therapist ### [Mina Sidarous, PT](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/physicians/mina-sidarous-pt/) Long Beach – Douglas Park [Meet Mina Sidarous](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/physicians/mina-sidarous-pt/) ## Publisher & attribution Commons Clinic Reviews is operated by Commons Clinic. 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