Back pain can be more than just a nuisance; it can significantly impact your quality of life and daily functionality. But how do you know if your pain is serious enough to warrant a call to a specialist?
“Usually most of the time little more is needed than time and rest. Pulling your back or shoulder is like spraining an ankle. With rest, it goes away,” said Burak Ozgur, M.D., director of the Hoag Spine Institute. “Wait a few days to determine if the pain is starting to subside. If it isn’t, or you’re experiencing sciatic-type pain, numbness or tingling down the leg, it’s worth getting checked out.”
At the Hoag Spine Institute, we believe in a holistic approach to managing back pain, prioritizing non-surgical interventions whenever possible. However if surgery is necessary, Hoag’s highly skilled surgeons rely on minimally invasive techniques and advanced robotics to improve outcomes and speed recovery. Before committing to any treatment, it’s crucial to seek multiple opinions and explore all available options.
“We give second opinions, and we welcome our patients to seek them as well. We do this because we want you to be confident in the decision you are making,” said Dr. Ozgur.
When consulting with our team at Hoag Spine Institute, consider asking:
What is the diagnosis? Ensuring an accurate diagnosis is fundamental to determining the most effective treatment plan.
What are my non-surgical options? Exploring conservative approaches such as physical therapy and pain management can often provide significant relief.
Am I a candidate for minimally invasive surgery? Our skilled surgeons specialize in advanced techniques that offer fewer risks and faster recovery times.
In addition to medical interventions, there are many lifestyle changes that can play a pivotal role in managing back pain such as exercise, quality sleep, stress management and proper nutrition.
By embracing a comprehensive approach that combines medical expertise with lifestyle modifications, individuals can effectively navigate back pain and reclaim their quality of life. To schedule a consultation with our dedicated spine care team at Hoag Spine Institute, contact us at 949-438-0384 or visit www.hoag.org/spine.
