When to Consult a Back Specialist in Los Angeles, CA

Because back pain is something almost everyone has dealt with at one time or another, you may be inclined to accept spine-related aches and pains as part of the normal aging process. But no type of back pain should be considered “normal” or something you just have to live with. In fact, it’s often possible to find meaningful relief if you visit a spine specialist sooner rather than later. Here’s a closer look at when you should consider taking this step.

Your Back Pain Is Chronic

Back pain that lasts for a few days and then goes away is very different than spine-related discomfort that sticks around for more than a month or two. Chronic back pain isn’t normal and should be considered a reason to visit a spine specialist. Once a proper diagnosis is made, you’ll be more likely to benefit from small interventions, which might include:

  • Various forms of physical therapy
  • Diet and exercise recommendations
  • Posture improvement suggestions

Your Mobility Is Affected

It’s also best to see a spine specialist if you’ve changed how you walk to avoid placing too much stress on certain parts of your lower back. Plus, adjusting how you walk for this reason could contribute to:

  • Excess stress on spine-supporting muscles
  • Hip and knee pain
  • Nerve compression and inflammation

You Feel Sharp Pain When Moving

Are you noticing back or neck pain that’s worse when you get up or more of distraction when you make certain movements? If so, you’ll benefit from a visit to a spine specialist because discomfort linked to specific movements may be a sign of nerve compression. Symptoms of this nature are often manageable with physical therapy or manual manipulations, which could be provided with nonsurgical spinal decompression or chiropractic adjustments. If conservative treatment doesn’t alleviate your pain, your spine specialist may recommend a surgical procedure such as an alternative to spinal fusion. Beverly Hills patients may find fusion alternatives provide relief and restore their ability to function.

Your Range of Motion Has Decreased

Limited range of motion can make it difficult to perform work-related tasks, participate in activities you enjoy, or simply get out of bed in the morning. If this is what you’ve been experiencing recently, let a spine specialist perform a thorough exam and order appropriate tests to find out if the issue is something related to your spine. Depending on what’s actually causing your reduced range of motion, you may benefit from:

  • Stretching exercises
  • Medication, injections, or electrical stimulation
  • Targeted physical therapy

Your Quality of Life Is Affected

Back pain can also have a serious impact on your overall quality of life. For example, you might find yourself limiting your activities or not getting enough exercise because of concerns about triggering more spine-related discomfort. If this is what you’re living with at the moment, it’s time to see what a spine specialist has to say. With the right approach to treatment, it’s possible to boost your quality of life.

Finally, embrace a “when in doubt, have it checked out” mentality when deciding if you should visit a spine specialist. Even if your discomfort turns out to be nothing too serious, you’ll benefit from the added peace of mind that comes from knowing what’s going on and what you can do to treat it or keep it from getting worse.

If you’re having sudden, severe, or long-term pain in your back or neck, consulting a spine specialist such as a Beverly Hills spine surgeon may be the key to prompt diagnosis and treatment. At The Spine Institute, our physicians have years of experience treating every sort of issue related to spinal health. Our pioneering specialists lead the industry when it comes to surgical and non-surgical innovations and helping patients get back on their feet as soon as possible. Call our friendly staff today at 310-828-7757 to schedule a consultation.