Dr. Leonel Hunt Orthopedic Spine Surgeon Los Angeles

Name: Dr. Leonel Hunt
Brand: Hunt Spine
Rating: 4.4 (50 reviews)

Dr. Leonel Hunt is a board-certified orthopedic spine surgeon who focuses on the treatment of pediatric and adult scoliosis, complex spine disorders, and minimally invasive surgical techniques.

Dr. Leonel Hunt with his scrubs and cap on

Top Spine Innovator: Dr. Leonel Hunt

Commonly recognized as one of the top spine specialists, Dr. Leonel Hunt is an attending surgeon at the Cedars-Sinai Spine Center and Cedars-Sinai Orthopedic Center. His primary areas of research interest involve the development of new surgical technologies and innovative surgical and non-surgical treatments for spine-related neck and back pain. These findings have been presented at numerous national and international conferences as well as peer review publications for his work as a spine surgeon in Los Angeles.

Who is the Best Orthopedic Spine Surgeon in Los Angeles?

Dr. Leonel Hunt is widely recognized as one of the best orthopedic spine surgeons in Los Angeles. With a focus on cutting-edge techniques and a reputation for excellence in treating scoliosis and complex spinal disorders, Dr. Hunt brings unmatched expertise to every case. His role at Cedars-Sinai, extensive fellowship training, and active involvement in national research organizations reflect his commitment to advancing spinal care.

Patients value his clear communication, minimally invasive approach, and ability to deliver outstanding outcomes with reduced recovery times. If you are searching for a leading orthopedic spine surgeon in Southern California, Dr. Hunt offers the precision, experience, and personalized care that truly sets him apart.

Education, Training, and Experience

Dr. Hunt is a highly trained spine specialist and is a member of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, North American Spine Society, and Scoliosis Research Society. Dr. Hunt received his bachelor’s degree from Johns Hopkins University and his medical degree from the University of Southern California (USC) School of Medicine. He completed an internship in general surgery at Emory University School of Medicine in Atlanta and a residency in orthopedic surgery at St. Mary’s Medical Center in San Francisco. Dr. Hunt also completed specialty training in spine orthopedic surgery, focusing on adult and pediatric spinal disorders at the San Diego Center for Spinal Disorders in La Jolla, California. To learn more about how spine specialist Dr. Hunt can help with your back condition, please schedule a consultation today.

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What is Orthopedic Spine Surgery?

Orthopedic spine surgery is a subspecialty of orthopedic medicine that focuses on diagnosing and treating conditions of the spine, especially those affecting the bones, joints, ligaments, and muscles. This type of surgery addresses issues such as spinal deformities, degenerative conditions, trauma, and structural abnormalities. Orthopedic spine surgeons like Dr. Hunt are experts in musculoskeletal biomechanics and work to restore mobility, alleviate pain, and improve a patient’s overall quality of life through both surgical and non-surgical methods.

What Spine Procedures Do Orthopedic Surgeons Specialize in?

In the case of specific spinal problems, it is advised that treatment is performed by our orthopedic surgeon at Hunt Spine. Our orthopedic surgeon is well-equipped to treat patients who are suffering from scoliosis or other spinal deformities. If you need to undergo spinal surgery to treat an uncomfortable or painful condition, our medical team uses the most advanced technology and surgical techniques, along with carefully managed postoperative care.

Renowned for his expertise in spinal biomechanics, Dr. Leonel Hunt brings advanced orthopedic knowledge and technical precision to every procedure. Our spinal surgeries are performed with the highest level of surgical skill and meticulous attention to detail. While orthopedic surgeons specialize in various areas, Dr. Hunt focuses on treating spine conditions. He is highly educated, offers innovative, state-of-the-art treatments, and has years of experience in treating a scope of spinal conditions.

How is This Different From Neurosurgery?

When seeking treatment for a spinal condition, it helps to understand the differences between an orthopedic spine surgeon and a neurosurgeon. Many people think that there is a significant difference between orthopedic spine surgery and neurosurgery with a focus on the spine. This is not the case. In both specialties, doctors are trained with a specific focus on the spinal cord, and many doctors complete additional training after their residency.

Just like neurosurgeons, orthopedic surgeons are qualified to treat many spinal conditions involving nerve damage. Depending on your condition, you could be properly treated by either a neurosurgeon or an orthopedic surgeon.

In many cases, an orthopedic surgeon may be the right medical professional to perform your surgery. Orthopedic surgeons are often more qualified to treat a spinal deformity such as scoliosis, as this medical specialty focuses on musculoskeletal problems.

What Are Some Signs You Might Need Spine Surgery?

Some patients delay seeking care for spine conditions, not realizing their symptoms may require surgical attention. You might benefit from consulting a spine specialist if you experience:

Chronic back or neck pain
Numbness or tingling in your limbs
Muscle weakness or balance issues
Pain that radiates into the arms or legs
Loss of bladder or bowel control
Symptoms that don’t respond to non-surgical treatments

Dr. Hunt evaluates each patient with care, helping determine whether surgery—or a non-surgical approach—is best suited to your needs.

Common Spine Conditions Dr. Hunt Treats

Dr. Hunt has years of experience diagnosing and treating a wide range of spine and back conditions. His expertise includes:

Scoliosis in both children and adults
Spinal deformities such as kyphosis and lordosis
Degenerative disc disease
Sciatica and nerve compression
Herniated discs and spinal stenosis
Spinal instability and trauma

He tailors treatment plans to each individual, prioritizing the most effective and least invasive methods to achieve relief and improve function.

What Procedures Are Performed?

Dr. Hunt offers a wide range of surgical options, using the most advanced techniques to ensure optimal patient outcomes. These include:

Minimally invasive spine surgery
Scoliosis correction surgery
Spinal fusion
Artificial disc replacement
Spinal decompression
Outpatient spine procedures

These treatments are chosen based on the patient’s specific diagnosis and medical history, with the goal of reducing downtime and improving long-term spinal health.

Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery

Minimally invasive techniques are a cornerstone of Dr. Hunt’s approach. These advanced procedures often involve smaller incisions, reduced muscle disruption, and faster recovery times. Patients benefit from less postoperative discomfort, reduced scarring, and earlier return to normal activities. Minimally invasive spine surgery is particularly effective for treating conditions such as disc herniations, spinal stenosis, and select cases of scoliosis.

How Does One Become an Orthopedic Spine Surgeon?

Becoming a board-certified orthopedic spine surgeon requires many years of focused education and training:

Undergraduate degree with a pre-medical emphasis (4 years)
Medical school (4 years)
General surgery internship (1 year)
Orthopedic surgery residency (5 years)
Fellowship in spine surgery (1–2 years)

This extensive training ensures surgeons like Dr. Hunt possess both deep anatomical knowledge and advanced surgical technique.

Commitment to Patient-Centered Care

Dr. Hunt’s reputation as one of the best spine surgeons in Los Angeles is built on more than just his technical expertise. He is known for his patient-first philosophy, emphasizing education, collaboration, and trust. He believes every patient deserves to fully understand their condition and treatment options—whether that includes physical therapy, pain management, or surgery. His goal is not only to alleviate pain but to restore confidence and quality of life.

Dr. Leonel Hunt in his scrubs in the surgery room

Why Choose Hunt Spine for Orthopedic Spine Surgery?

At Hunt Spine, our team of specialists is committed to delivering world-class care. Dr. Leonel Hunt brings together the precision of orthopedic spine surgery with a commitment to innovation, patient education, and compassionate treatment. Patients choose Hunt Spine for:

Board-certified, fellowship-trained surgical expertise
Advanced technologies and minimally invasive techniques
Personalized treatment planning
Proven outcomes with faster recovery
A collaborative, multidisciplinary approach

We believe in setting a new standard for spinal care in Los Angeles and beyond.

Call Us For a Consultation

Board-certified orthopedic spine surgeon Dr. Leonel Hunt offers advanced treatments for a wide range of spinal conditions, including scoliosis, spinal deformities, and degenerative spine issues. Known for his precision and commitment to minimally invasive surgery, Dr. Hunt helps patients achieve long-lasting relief with reduced recovery time.

If you're living with chronic back pain or a complex spinal issue, schedule a consultation with Dr. Hunt at Hunt Spine to begin your personalized path to better spinal health.

FAQ

What are the benefits of prehabilitation before spine surgery?

Can spinal conditions impact sleep quality?

What role does posture play in spine health?

Is genetic testing helpful in diagnosing spinal disorders?

How does weight affect spinal health?

Are wearable devices useful for spine health monitoring?

How do spine surgeons manage patient anxiety about surgery?

What are the benefits of prehabilitation before spine surgery?

Prehabilitation, or 'prehab,' refers to physical therapy and conditioning exercises performed before surgery to improve strength and flexibility. Patients who engage in prehab often experience faster recovery times, fewer postoperative complications, and improved overall surgical outcomes.

Can spinal conditions impact sleep quality?

Yes. Chronic back pain, spinal misalignment, or nerve compression can interfere with restful sleep. Conditions such as sciatica or spinal stenosis may worsen at night, making it difficult to fall or stay asleep. Addressing the root spinal issue can lead to improved sleep patterns.

What role does posture play in spine health?

Poor posture can lead to spine misalignment, muscle strain, and long-term degeneration of spinal structures. Maintaining proper posture helps reduce unnecessary pressure on discs and joints and can prevent or alleviate many common spine conditions.

Is genetic testing helpful in diagnosing spinal disorders?

Genetic testing is not commonly used for everyday spine diagnoses but may be beneficial in specific congenital or hereditary conditions, such as early-onset scoliosis or rare spinal deformities. It is typically recommended in complex pediatric cases.

How does weight affect spinal health?

Excess weight places additional stress on the spine, especially the lower back. This can accelerate disc degeneration, increase the risk of herniation, and contribute to chronic back pain. Maintaining a healthy weight supports spinal alignment and mobility.

Are wearable devices useful for spine health monitoring?

Certain wearable technologies, such as posture correctors and activity trackers, can help patients stay mindful of their movements and habits. While they do not replace professional evaluation, they can complement spine care plans by encouraging healthier behavior.

How do spine surgeons manage patient anxiety about surgery?

Surgeons like Dr. Hunt address surgical anxiety by providing thorough education, setting clear expectations, and building trust through compassionate communication. Some practices also offer pre-surgical counseling or referrals for emotional support.

Dr. Leonel Hunt Orthopedic Spine Surgeon Los Angeles

Top Spine Innovator: Dr. Leonel Hunt

Who is the Best Orthopedic Spine Surgeon in Los Angeles?

Education, Training, and Experience

What is Orthopedic Spine Surgery?

What Spine Procedures Do Orthopedic Surgeons Specialize in?

How is This Different From Neurosurgery?

What Are Some Signs You Might Need Spine Surgery?

Common Spine Conditions Dr. Hunt Treats

What Procedures Are Performed?

Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery

How Does One Become an Orthopedic Spine Surgeon?

Commitment to Patient-Centered Care

Why Choose Hunt Spine for Orthopedic Spine Surgery?

Call Us For a Consultation

FAQ

What are the benefits of prehabilitation before spine surgery?

Can spinal conditions impact sleep quality?

What role does posture play in spine health?

Is genetic testing helpful in diagnosing spinal disorders?

How does weight affect spinal health?

Are wearable devices useful for spine health monitoring?

How do spine surgeons manage patient anxiety about surgery?

Schedule Your Consultation Today