Lower Back Pain Specialist Doctor
At the office of Dr. Han Jo Kim, we understand the debilitating effects of lower back pain and the importance of finding the right specialist to help you recover. Our team of experienced and highly-skilled chiropractors, pain management doctors, physical therapists, back pain specialists, and medical doctors specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of all types of back pain. Dr. Kim and his team of specialists serve patients all over NYC. Whether you’re nearby on the Upper East Side or over in Midtown Manhattan, we can assist you.
We offer a wide range of services and low back pain treatment options to help our patients recover from back pain, including:
- Chiropractic adjustments
- Physical therapy
- Massage therapy
- Acupuncture
- Medical consultations
- Imaging services (X-ray, MRI, CT)
Our state-of-the-art facility is equipped with the latest technology and techniques to ensure that our patients receive the best possible care. We also offer flexible scheduling and accept most insurance plans.
Not Sure Where to Start?
If you’re suffering from a back injury and need the help of a specialist, contact us today to schedule an appointment. We’re here to help you get back to feeling your best. So don’t wait, book your appointment today.
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Contact Us
- Phone: (212) 774-2837
- Address: 541 E 71st St 4th Floor, New York, NY, 10021
Office Hours Monday to Friday 9:00 am – 5:00 pm.
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- Twitter: @BackInjuryNYC
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Dr. Han Jo Kim
Dr. Han Jo Kim is a board-certified and fellowship-trained orthopedic spine surgeon in New York City. He specializes in the treatment of spinal disorders, including degenerative conditions, herniated disc, spinal stenosis, scoliosis, neck pain and spinal tumors. He is a highly experienced and skilled surgeon, who uses the latest techniques and technologies to provide his patients with the best possible outcomes.
Dr. Kim received his medical degree from New York University School of Medicine and completed his residency in Orthopedic Surgery at the Hospital for Joint Diseases, also at New York University. He then went on to complete a fellowship in spinal surgery at the prestigious Texas Back Institute.
Dr. Kim is an active member of several professional societies and organizations, including the North American Spine Society, the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, and the New York State Medical Society. He is also a frequent speaker at national and international conferences, sharing his knowledge and expertise with other spine specialists.
Dr. Kim is dedicated to providing his patients with the highest level of care and is committed to helping them achieve the best possible outcomes. He is known for his compassionate and personalized approach to patient care, taking the time to listen to each patient’s concerns and working with them to develop a treatment plan that is tailored to their specific needs.
Dr. Kim is located in New York City, and his clinic is dedicated to providing comprehensive care for patients with spinal disorders and experiencing chronic back pain. His practice is equipped with the latest technologies and staffed with highly trained and experienced professionals who are committed to providing the best possible care for their patients.
Driving a car for long periods can cause lower back pain. Being restricted to sitting in the same position for an extended period can generate this pain. Whether it’s a road trip or a commute to work, lower back pain can make it difficult and uncomfortable to drive. Dr. Han Jo Kim and his staff are dedicated to treating patients’ back pain with the proper care. If you experience lower back pain from driving or other activities, see our back injury specialist NYC.
Symptoms of Lower Back Pain
Lower back pain can consist of different types of pain ranging from a dull ache to a shooting sensation. As a result, it may make it difficult to do simple tasks like standing or moving. Lower back pain that is persistent for longer than three months is considered “chronic pain.” Contact our back injury specialist NYC if the following symptoms occur:
- Back pain persists for a few weeks
- Back pain doesn’t improve with rest
- The pain spreads down one or both legs
- Pain causes weakness, numbness, or tingling in one or both legs
- Pain results in unexplained weight loss
Tips for Preventing Lower Back Pain While Driving
Being behind the wheel can trigger lower back pain and discomfort. To decrease your chances of suffering from lower back pain while driving, consider the following tips:
- Use lumbar support– Place a rolled-up towel or cushion at the lower back around belt level.
- Move the seat forward– Get as close to the steering wheel as possible to prevent slouching or straining.
- Angle the seat– Adjust the back of the seat at an angle between 100 to 110 degrees.
- Use cruise control– When safe to do so, use cruise control to allow you to place both feet on the floor and distribute your weight more evenly.
- Take breaks to stop– Stop as often as you can to stand up and stretch.
- Adjust your hand placement– Research has found putting your hands at 9 o’clock and 3 o’clock allows you to rest your elbows on the armrests. This can ease or prevent pain in the back.
- Heat your seat– If your car has the function to do so, use your heated seats to relax the muscles in the back.
Diagnosing Lower Back Pain
If you are suffering from lower back pain see our back injury specialist NYC to get a proper diagnosis. The specialist will ask a series of questions concerning you and your back pain. After these initial questions, a series of tests may be performed to determine the severity of the back pain. Some of the tests that may be taken are X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs. In addition, a plan of treatment will be discussed. Some of the things the specialist will ask for include:
- A description of the type of pain
- The location of the pain
- When it started
- Related symptoms
- Any history of a chronic condition
At-Home Remedies for Lower Back Pain
Some home remedies can be done to ease lower back pain in addition to seeing a back injury specialist NYC. One remedy includes applying heat from a heating pad or warm bath to provide temporary relief. An ice pack can also be applied to reduce inflammation. Another recommendation is to take an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drug, such as aspirin, ibuprofen, or naproxen. A pain reliever such as acetaminophen is also an option. One final remedy is to apply medicated creams, salves, ointments, or patches. These can help the affected area and relieve stiffness, soreness, and tenseness.
Treatment: Back Injury Specialist NYC
Depending on the situation and severity, our back specialist may recommend the following courses of treatment for patients suffering from lower back pain:
- Prescription pain relievers
- Physical therapy
- Massage therapy
- Nerve stimulation
- Spinal injections
- Acupuncture
Surgery For Lower Back Pain
In more severe cases of lower back pain, back surgery may be necessary. Some surgeries are more invasive than others. Healing periods, pain during recovery, and duration of inpatient hospital stays may vary depending on the type of surgery. With modern surgical approaches, some spine surgeries can even be completed on an outpatient basis with a shorter recovery period.
Contact Our Back Injury Specialist NYC
If driving has caused you to suffer from lower back pain, use home remedies for pain relief and see our back injury specialist NYC. Dr. Han Jo Kim and his licensed staff can confront your back pain and help you find comfort with a proper diagnosis and treatment. Schedule an appointment with our team today!
What are the Sacroiliac Joints?
These joints provide stability for your back by connecting your spine to your hips. The sacroiliac joints are unique because they are the only joints in your body where one bone doesn’t move against another. Instead, these two bones move within a ligamentous capsule when you bend or twist. The sacroiliac (SI) joints in the lower spine can be a significant source of chronic low back pain. Pain from SI joint dysfunction can also radiate to other areas of the body, such as the hips, legs, and buttocks. Our team at Han Jo Kim is professional and experienced. We develop catered treatment plans for you. If you need an orthopedic back specialist on Long Island, visit our website today!
The sacroiliac joints (SIJ) are:
- The two small joints between the sacrum.
- The triangular-shaped bone at the base of your spine.
- The iliac bones are on each side of your pelvis.
Symptoms
Common symptoms associated with SI joint problems include difficulty sitting or standing for long periods and pain when changing positions from sitting to standing. In some cases, the pain may even be worse when lying down.
Treatment From Our Back Injury Specialist NYC
Treatment for SI joint dysfunction can range from physical therapy and exercise to medications or injections for pain relief. Physical therapy is often prescribed for strengthening the muscles that stabilize the SI joints, as well as to help improve flexibility.
Physical Therapy For Sacroiliac Joints
Physical therapy can help to alleviate symptoms associated with the SI joint. A physical therapist will assess your posture, range of motion, and strength to develop a tailored treatment plan. Exercises designed specifically for the SIJ may be implemented to increase flexibility, strengthen core muscles, and improve overall function.
What Could Lower Back Pain Indicate?
Lower back pain can have various causes, making it essential to consult with a doctor or healthcare provider to determine the source of your discomfort. Lower back pain could be caused by anything from injury or arthritis to instability in the spine or herniated discs. It is also possible that the cause may be something else entirely, such as a urinary tract infection or an underlying medical condition, so it is crucial to seek a diagnosis from a professional. If you are looking for an orthopedic back specialist on Long Island, please contact Han Jo Kim today! We can help you get to the bottom of your lower back pain and create a tailored treatment plan that works for you.
Back Injury Specialist NYC
If you are experiencing lower back pain, you should contact a doctor or healthcare provider for an examination. A professional can help diagnose the cause of your discomfort and recommend a treatment plan that will work best for you. It is also essential to be aware of any activities that aggravate your pain and avoid them if possible. Here are the best methods for treating back pain:
- Rest
- Heat therapy
- Weight training to strengthen muscles
- Gentle stretching can also help manage lower back pain
If you need an orthopedic back specialist on Long Island, please contact Han Jo Kim today! We are here to help you find relief from your chronic low back pain.
Chronic vs. Acute Back Pain
Understanding the difference between chronic and acute lower back pain is important. Acute lower back pain typically lasts for a few days or weeks, whereas chronic lower back pain can last for months or even years. Other symptoms, such as fatigue and difficulty sleeping, may accompany chronic lower back pain. If you struggle with chronic low back pain, don’t hesitate to contact Han Jo Kim to schedule an appointment with a professional orthopedic back specialist on Long Island today. We are here to help you find relief from your pain and discomfort.
Choosing Your Back Injury Specialist NYC
Our team of experienced and professional orthopedic specialists at Han Jo Kim is here to provide the highest quality care. We understand that every case is unique, so we develop personalized treatment plans tailored to your needs. Our goal is to help you find relief from chronic pain so you can get back to living your everyday life. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!
We look forward to helping you find relief. Thank you for considering Han Jo Kim as your orthopedic back specialist on Long Island. We are dedicated to providing the best care and helping our patients live life pain-free. Contact us today, and let us help get you on the road to total health.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Main Causes of Back Pain?
There are many potential causes of back problems, including injury or trauma to the back, degenerative conditions such as osteoarthritis or disc disease, poor posture, and certain medical conditions such as a herniated disc or spinal stenosis. One of the most common back pain stimulants includes stress and anxiety. In some cases, the cause of back pain may not be clear and may require further evaluation by a healthcare provider. Other typical causes of back pain may include the following:
- Tingle in the Area
- Pinched Nerve
- Lumbar Pain
- Sports Injury
- Vertebra Issues
- Slipped Discs
- Muscle Weakness
- Sciatica
- Dull Pain
- Bone Spurs
Are There Different Types of Back Pain?
Yes, there are different types of back pain. Some common types include acute pain, chronic pain, lower back pain, upper back pain, and radicular pain. Acute pain is a sudden and severe pain that usually lasts for a short period of time, while chronic pain is a long-term pain that persists for more than three months. Lower back pain is pain that occurs in the lower portion of the back, while upper back pain occurs in the upper portion of the back. Radicular pain is pain that travels down the legs or arms caused by a compressed nerve in the spine.
What Are the Risk Factors for Back Pain?
Common reasons people experience back pain include: age, sedentary lifestyle, smoking, obesity, poor physical fitness, poor posture, repetitive motions, heavy lifting, and previous injury. Stress and certain medical conditions such as arthritis, osteoporosis, and scoliosis can also increase the risk for back pain.
Can Back Pain Cause Headaches?
Yes, back pain can cause headaches. The pain in the back can cause tension in the neck and shoulders, which can lead to headaches. Additionally, certain conditions that cause back pain, such as a herniated disc, can also cause headaches. If you are experiencing both back conditions and headaches, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment for back pain.
Is Back Pain Serious?
Back pain can range from mild to severe and can have a variety of causes. Some common causes of back pain include poor posture, muscle strain, and injury. In some cases, back pain can be a symptom of a more serious condition, such as a herniated disc or spinal cord compression. If your back pain is severe or accompanied by other painful symptoms, such as numbness or weakness, it is important to seek medical attention. A doctor can help determine the cause of your pain and recommend appropriate treatment.
What is sciatica?
Sciatica is a set of symptoms that can include pain, numbness, and weakness in the lower back, legs, and feet, caused by irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve. The sciatic nerve is the longest and widest nerve in the body, running from the lower back, through the hips and buttocks, and down the legs to the feet. Sciatica can be caused by a variety of factors, including herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or degenerative disc disease, but most commonly caused by a herniated disk or a bone spur that presses on the nerve. Symptoms can vary from a mild ache to a sharp, burning sensation or even numbness in the affected leg.
Are there any complications of chronic back pain?
Chronic back pain can have a number of complications, including:
- Reduced mobility and physical function
- Difficulty with daily activities
- Depression and anxiety
- Sleep disturbances
- Social isolation
- Difficulty with work and decreased productivity
- Increased healthcare utilization and expenses
- Dependence on pain medication
- Risk of opioid addiction
- Increased risk of falls in older adults.
It’s important to seek medical attention if you’re experiencing chronic back pain to determine the underlying cause and develop an appropriate treatment plan. This can help prevent complications and improve quality of life.
Back Pain Treatment From A Back Specialist
Treatment options for back pain can include physical therapy, exercise, over-the-counter pain medication, massage therapy, acupuncture, spinal manipulation, pain relievers, and surgery. The appropriate treatment plan may vary depending on the underlying cause of the pain, as well as the individual’s overall health and preferences. In some cases, a combination of treatments may be recommended. It is always best to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best treatment plan for your specific condition. Whatever the case, our team will make your pain relief our #1 priority through our various treatment modalities. If you opt for back surgery. Dr. Kim is among of the top back doctors in the country. If you want a different approach to treating your back pain diagnosis, Dr. Kim can also recommend a more conservative treatment. You can book an appointment for minimally invasive care by contacting a treatment specialist at our NYC office.