3. Do I Need a Spine Specialist?
Spine specialists focus only on the spine, and keep track of the latest advancements in non-operative and operative care.

Neck Pain
Neck pain that radiates into the shoulder and/or down the arm is often due to a pinched nerve in the neck. Pain that begins in the wrist, or increases with moving the shoulder, are often due to local problems in the arm.

Back Pain
Low back pain that radiates into the buttocks and/or down the leg is often due to a pinched nerve in the back. Pain predominantly in the groin or side of the hip is often due to hip problems. Similarly, pain in the knee that increases with walking or bending the knee is typically a knee problem.

The vast majority (over 90%) of all spine patients improve with noninvasive, conservative management. We only recommend spine surgery as a last resort, and have strong relationships with chiropractors, physical therapists, pain and rehabilitation specialists, acupuncturists, napropaths, and holistic medicine experts to make sure you receive the most conservative care that takes care of your pain.

4. What Do My Symptoms Mean?
Neck Pain
Neck pain that is limited to the width of your neck is often due to muscular spasm. These symptoms can last a long time, particularly after car accidents and other serious injuries. Neck pain that radiates into the shoulder and/or down the arm is often due to a pinched nerve in the neck.

Arm Pain, Numbness, or Weakness
Pain that begins in the wrist, or increases with moving the shoulder, are often due to local problems in the arm. However, pain that moves down your arm, or weakness in the arm can be due to a serious condition in your neck and should be evaluated by a spine specialist.

Back Pain
Low back pain or spasm that is limited to the muscles along the middle of the back, or pain that spreads widely across the waist area is often due to muscular spasms. Low back pain that radiates into the buttocks and/or down the leg is often due to a pinched nerve in the back.

Leg Pain, Numbness, or Weakness
Pain predominantly in the groin or side of the hip is often due to hip problems. Similarly, pain in the knee that increases with walking or bending the knee is typically a knee problem. However, pain that radiates down the front or back of the leg, particularly below the knee, is often due to a pinched nerve in the back. If you have progressive difficulty walking, or you have a foot drop (your foot slaps the ground as you walk), the weakness can be due to a serious condition in your back and should be evaluated by a spine specialist.