Back Pain

Name: Back Pain
Brand: Hunt Spine
Rating: 4.4 (50 reviews)

There are various areas of the back that usually flare up with back pain. These include upper back pain, middle back pain, lower back pain, and lower back pain with sciatica (leg pain and numbness).

Targeted Back Pain Solutions

Arthritis, degenerative disc disease, or nerve and muscular problems can all cause back pain. This pain is normally managed with pain medication, but once the cause of the back pain is located, practitioners can target treatments to remedy these issues rather than simply manage pain symptoms.

Chronic Back Pain

Medically speaking, back pain is considered "chronic" when it lasts for more than 3 months, as opposed to pain that may last for a few days to a few weeks, usually due to an injury. Chronic back pain is not a complete diagnosis in itself, but it is a sign that there is a more serious condition or disease that needs to be addressed to fully resolve the pain symptoms.

Chronic back pain often affects those in middle age and is commonly a result of an injury or strain that never properly healed. It can also be related to the gradual degeneration of the joints and discs or loss of bone strength or muscle elasticity, which is sometimes accelerated by a sedentary lifestyle and lack of exercise. Specific conditions and injuries may cause chronic back pain. These include:

Spinal Stenosis

Spinal stenosis is a narrowing of the spinal column which can put pressure on the spinal cord and surrounding nerve roots, resulting in a variety of neurological symptoms. Age is often associated with spinal stenosis due to the gradual compression caused by gravity. Spinal misalignment, bad posture, bone degeneration, or arthritis can all contribute to spinal stenosis. When there are neurological symptoms at play, often back pain can alternatively be treated with neurosurgery treatments as well.

Those suffering from spinal stenosis may experience burning pain or numbness in the legs or buttocks (sciatica). Others experience weakness in the lower half of their bodies and may even display “drop foot,” where they have difficulties lifting their feet when walking. Unwanted sensation as a result of spinal stenosis can also cause a person to have a tendency to lean forward when sitting.

Herniated or Bulging Disc

A herniated disc occurs when the outer material of a spinal disc ruptures and the inner jelly-like material emerges, affecting the surrounding nerves and sometimes causing significant neurological pain. A bulging disc occurs when the spinal disc shifts out of place but does not rupture. Both conditions can cause significant pain or none at all, depending on the severity and location of the disc issue.

Herniated and bulging spinal discs are normally the result of strenuous physical activity and most frequently occur in males ages 30 to 50, often those who do manual work or drive for long periods of time. It is most common for discs in the lower back (lumbar) to be affected. Occasionally discs in the neck (cervical) region are affected. Rarely do discs in the mid-back (thoracic) become herniated or bulge. Artificial disc replacement is a treatment option for those with herniated or bulging discs and often successfully results in a return of motion and reduction in pain.

Skeletal Irregularities

Irregular curvature of the spine can contribute to chronic back pain. Conditions include scoliosis, where there is abnormal curvature from side to side; lordosis, abnormal curvature of the spine backward; and kyphosis, abnormal forward curvature of the spine.

These spine conditions can put additional strain on surrounding muscles, ligaments, and the vertebrae themselves. And while they can affect people at any age, spinal skeletal irregularities are most common in adolescents, as complications develop during bone growth.

Still Unsure?

While the above may be helpful in determining what’s causing your chronic back pain, it is no substitute for a professional diagnosis from spine specialists at Hunt Spine. If you are suffering from chronic back pain or have experienced spinal trauma, it is time for a consultation. Doctors Leonel and Gabriel Hunt are eager to determine the cause of your discomfort and pain, leading you to effective treatment and blissful relief. Please call today to schedule an appointment.

Patient Testimonial

I have all the confidence in Dr. Gabriel Hunt and Dr. Leonel. l am suffering of spine pain. My visit was the best in years with any medical professional. Very detailed, intelligent, respectful, listens with willingness to help genuinely. l'm Grateful. My prayers have been answered.

J.H.

Know Your Doctors

At Hunt Spine, our commitment to delivering world-class care for back pain and spinal conditions is led by the expertise of two exceptional physicians: Dr. Leonel Hunt and Dr. Gabriel Hunt. As brothers and renowned specialists, they combine their distinct yet complementary skills in orthopedic spine surgery and neurosurgery to provide the most comprehensive treatment plans tailored to each patient’s unique needs.

Dr. Leonel Hunt: Orthopedic Spine Surgery Expert

Dr. Leonel Hunt is a board-certified orthopedic spine surgeon widely recognized for his precision and innovation in treating complex spinal conditions. As an attending surgeon at Cedars-Sinai Spine Center and Cedars-Sinai Orthopedic Center, Dr. Hunt specializes in pediatric and adult scoliosis, spinal deformities, and degenerative spine disorders. His approach emphasizes minimally invasive surgical techniques, leveraging advanced imaging and state-of-the-art technology to address the root causes of back pain with minimal tissue disruption. Dr. Hunt’s extensive research in spinal biomechanics and novel surgical tools ensures that patients benefit from cutting-edge treatments designed to reduce recovery time and enhance long-term outcomes. His compassionate, patient-centered philosophy ensures that every individual is fully educated about their condition and treatment options, empowering them to make informed decisions.

Learn More About Dr. Leonel Hunt

Dr. Gabriel Hunt: Leading Neurosurgeon for Spinal Health

Dr. Gabriel Hunt, a board-certified neurosurgeon, brings unparalleled expertise in treating complex spinal disorders, spinal cord injuries, and tumors affecting the spine and skull base. Practicing at the Cedars-Sinai Department of Neurosurgery and the Cedars-Sinai Spine Center, Dr. Hunt is celebrated for his minimally invasive approaches and advancements in neurosurgical techniques. Named a Castle Connolly Top Doctor since 2022, he focuses on conditions such as spinal trauma, degenerative disc disease, and vascular abnormalities, ensuring precise interventions that prioritize patient safety and recovery. Dr. Hunt’s dedication to patient education and his empathetic approach allow him to build trust, ensuring that each patient understands their diagnosis and feels confident in their treatment plan.

Learn More About Dr. Gabriel Hunt

A Collaborative Approach to Comprehensive Care

Together, Dr. Leonel Hunt and Dr. Gabriel Hunt form a dynamic team that integrates the precision of orthopedic spine surgery with the specialized knowledge of neurosurgery. This unique collaboration allows Hunt Spine to offer a holistic approach to back pain treatment, addressing both the musculoskeletal and neurological aspects of spinal conditions. Whether through non-invasive therapies, minimally invasive procedures, or complex surgeries, the Hunt brothers are dedicated to improving your quality of life with personalized, evidence-based care. Their shared commitment to innovation, empathy, and patient education makes Hunt Spine a trusted destination for those seeking relief from back pain and a path to lasting spinal health.

Schedule a consultation today to experience the unparalleled expertise of Dr. Leonel Hunt and Dr. Gabriel Hunt, and take the first step toward a pain-free life.