Top Long Island Spine Surgeons

About Han Jo Kim, MD : Scoliosis Treatment Manhattan While working as a spine surgeon at the Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS), Dr. Kim mastered his craft. Specializing in cervical spine and scoliosis surgery, he has helped patients overcome spinal issues and injuries through surgery for many years. After serving as the Director of the Spine Fellowship, Dr. Kim has become the leader and founder of our practice. Dr. Kim’s time as a spinal surgeon has not fallen exclusively within the United States. He has dedicated time to work as a volunteer surgeon at the FOCUS hospital in Ghana, West Africa. Doing so allowed him to treat some of the rarest and most complex spinal conditions in pediatric and adult patients. Those who find themselves dealing with extremely rare or severe spinal conditions should feel confident coming to our practice for care. Dr. Kim has successfully operated on hundreds of rare and complex spinal deformities and takes this valuable experience into every operation he performs. Our practice understands how devastating spinal issues can become. We also know that the nature of spinal surgery is extremely invasive. We want our patients to trust that spinal surgery will only be recommended when all of the treatment options have been exhausted. Dr. Kim and the rest of our staff’s primary goal is to get each patient who visits us back to full strength. When surgery is required for this goal, there are few better teams to work with than the one here at Dr. Han Jo Kim’s office.

Our Services

Can Herniated Disc be Treated Naturally?

Usually, people think that surgery is the only option to manage a herniated disc. Surgery is an intense procedure on your body and can take months or even years to recover fully. In some cases, people may not fully recover from surgery and may struggle with immobility and pain for the rest of their lives. While that usually is rare and depends on the type of surgery you have, surgery usually doesn’t sound pleasant. That is why we at Dr. Han Jo Kim’s office try to do everything to relieve your pain without the use of surgery. Surgery may be necessary in some cases. However, we try natural methods to treat your herniated disc before jumping into surgery. If you have severe back pain and think you may have a herniated disc, we recommend you seek out our top Long Island spine surgeons doctors in new york.

What is a Herniated Disc?

Vertebrae are the bones that make up the back. The vertebrae have four groups: cervical vertebrae, thoracic vertebrae, lumbar vertebrae, and the sacrum/coccyx. The disc between each vertebra is almost like a cushion to prevent the vertebrae from rubbing against one another. These cushions help with avoiding pain and allowing mobility within the back. These discs have a more rigid, tough outer layer and a softer, jelly center layer. If the disc ruptures, this can result in severe pain because there are proteins and other substances within the jelly-like center. A herniated disc can happen throughout the back; however, they are more likely to occur in the lower back as this is the region that bears the most weight and pressure. 

Symptoms

Everyone will have different symptoms depending on where the herniated discs are. Some people may not even experience any symptoms. Some people may require surgery to help fix the damage and relieve pain. However, your symptoms can be reduced through natural pain management methods in most cases. The following are the most common symptoms of a herniated disc: 

• • Pain that travels: Along with the pain you are feeling in your back, you may have pain in other areas depending on where the herniated disc is. For example, if the herniated disc is in the lumbar region, you may have pain in your buttocks or legs. The back is the connection point between the rest of the body and the lower extremities. They are interconnected in some ways. 

• • Numb or Tingle Feeling: Since the spinal cord is in the back, numbness, and tingling can be herniated disc symptoms. This type of pain involves the nervous system and potentially compromises it when a disc starts to bulge out of place. 

If you are experiencing any recurring symptoms above, you should look for our top Long Island spine surgeons. 

Diagnosis

The top Long Island spine surgeons at Dr. Kim’s office will perform a neurological exam on you to determine whether or not you have a herniated disc in your back. During the exam, they will perform some physical tests to assess your walking ability and your ability to feel certain sensations. Additionally, a doctor may recommend specific imaging tests. An X-ray cannot detect a herniated disc. A CT scan and an MRI are detailed imaging techniques to see the particular back structure. These are more detailed images to determine if and where the disc moved/ruptured. 

Treatment 

It is essential to understand that surgery is not required to treat a herniated disc. Natural healing methods can help with the pain and manage the condition. The following are natural treatment methods to manage a herniated disc: 

• • Rest: By resting, you can relieve the swelling and irritation in the back caused by a herniated disc. The back is irritated due to the herniated disc and can benefit immensely from taking it easy on your back. Also, staying off of your legs which may also be in pain, can be beneficial. Giving them back time to rest is a great way to relieve pain and give them back time to heal themselves. 

• • Physical Therapy: This is a big part of the healing and managing a herniated disc. Physical Therapy is excellent for strengthening the surrounding muscles of the hurt area. For example, going to physical therapy after being diagnosed with a herniated disc can help you immensely. The therapists will focus on strengthening the muscles in your back to help relieve the pressure on the vertebrae in your back. This will ultimately reduce the pain you have in your back and help prevent pain in the future as other muscles in the back will take over during certain activities. 

There are other options for treatment, such as medication, injections, and surgery. However, natural remedies should be attempted first because they work in many cases. Contact our top Long Island spine surgeons to get treatment for your herniated disc. 

Contact Our Top Long Island Spine Surgeons

Dr. Han Jo Kim and his team specialize in treating the spine and any related issues. He has had years of experience and is a prominent surgeon. Before jumping into surgery, we recommend and push natural treatment options for those suffering from herniated discs. We have great success with these natural options and believe you will too if you contact our top Long Island spine surgeons. Contact our office today to get pain-free!

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Can Stretching Help Facet Joint Pain

If you search for a top Long Island spine surgeons, Dr. Han Jo Kim is the place to go. We strive to give you the best service and treat each of our patients with precision and care. If you are suffering from back pain, please consider us as you could be suffering from facet Joint Syndrome. Here at our office, we have the knowledge and tools to help you overcome this condition. Keep reading to find out more about Facet Joint pain and see if it sounds familiar to you.

Causes of Facet Joint Pain

If you or a loved one is battling back pain, surgery is not always the answer. Dr. Han Jo Kim will evaluate you and may give you specific instructions to follow to see if this will help your pain before diving into an extensive surgery process. As we get older, our bodies may begin to develop joint pain in and around the spine. This is called Facet Joint Syndrome. Facet Joint Syndrome is a condition where the cartilage between the spinal facets gets worn down over time. This can cause you so much pain that it can change your day-to-day lifestyle. Some causes of Facet Pain are:

• • Osteoarthritis: This is an age-related breakdown of cartilage between the facets. Over time the cartilage begins to get thinner with everyday use, causing grinding bones and severe pain. 

• • Injuries: Injuries are a big reason for facet joint pain. A fall can cause damage to cartilage between facets. 

• • Occupation: Some jobs that require you to use your body, like heavy lifting and poor posture, can create tension between bones making it more likely to develop this condition. 

• • Obesity: Extra weight on your joints and muscles can make the cartilage deteriorate faster than usual, causing a lot of pain and pressure on your joints. 

• • Hereditary: Sometimes, this condition is hereditary, and your body has a faster way of breaking down this cushion-like material between your bones.

This specific cartilage is so important to have between your spinal facets because it creates a cushion for your bones to glide over, making for pain-free movements quickly. Over time, as these factors above affect the cartilage, it creates a thinner layer of cushion and causes the bones to become closer together, and more pressure is put on each facet. 

Signs of Facet Joint Pain

One main symptom of facet joint syndrome is pain, but other factors can help you identify it sooner rather than later. This type of pain is usually intermittent, which means it comes at unpredictable times and comes and goes as it pleases. These are what we call a flare-up, and they can occur at random and last for as long as a couple of days, or they can be ongoing in some cases. This pain is usually a dull ache and can be widespread over the spine. The pain may even radiate down other parts of the body. If you notice that this pain becomes worse when you sit for an extended period, you could have this syndrome. It can also become worse if you stand for long periods as well. It can increase severity when you twist or turn your spine, making it hard to do everyday activities. Sometimes changing positions can help the pain subside and certain stretches that the doctor will give you. If these symptoms sound all too familiar, you may be suffering from this syndrome. 

Dr. Han Jo Kim – Top Long Island Spine Surgeons

At our office, we prioritize getting you feeling back to your normal self again. The first thing Dr. Han Jo Kim may do is give you specific stretches that may alleviate joint pain in your spine. Stretching and massaging your joints frequently can help relieve the pressure put on the facet joints and alleviate the pain around them. We also may suggest exercises every day. This can help build the muscles around your spine to again take pressure off of these specific joints with less cartilage. 

Contact Our Top Long Island Spine Surgeons

If you’re suffering from facet joint pain, don’t hesitate to contact our office today. We’re eager to help you get back to living an everyday life without any pain. Dr. Han Jo Kim is one of the leading top Long Island spine surgeons. Set up your appointment today by visiting our website or calling us at (212) 774-2837. We look forward to hearing from you.

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How Do You Relieve Upper Back Pain?

Upper back pain can be caused by many things ranging from hunching over, looking at your smartphone, sitting at a desk, or an injury. Thankfully, there are a few at-home treatments to utilize to help reduce the pain. If you are experiencing prolonged pain in your upper back, contact Dr. Han Jo Kim, top Long Island spine surgeons, and see what relief he can provide you with today!

Causes of Upper Back Pain

Regardless of the exact cause of upper back pain, it is essential to know them to figure out the best treatment plan. Some of the most common include:

• • Poor Posture – when routinely sitting for extended periods with poor posture, structural changes in the neck and back can occur. The muscles become deconditioned and weak, and therefore cannot hold the spine in neutral alignment as easily as before. 

• • Lifting Improperly – When lifting a heavy object without keeping the spine aligned, it can cause undue stress on the upper back. Pain can also result from lifting a thing that is too heavy.

• • Overuse – muscle strains, ligament sprains, and inflammation can occur when putting the back through more than usual work. 

• • Accident or Collision can be trauma from an auto accident, a fall from a height, or a sports collision that can cause upper back pain from an injury to spinal bones, discs, muscles, ligament sprains, and inflammation.

Some other, less common causes for upper back pain include the following:

• • Thoracic Herniated Disc

• • Compressive Fractures

• • Arthritis

• • Fibromyalgia

• • Severe Spinal Deformity

There can also be a combination of these causes that lead to pain, like improper lifting and overuse.

Top Long Island Spine Surgeons At-Home Treatment 

Some at-home treatment options for upper back pain from our top Long Island spine surgeons include:

• • Rest and Modification of Movement – If you are experiencing pain doing specific movements or activities like household chores or participating in hobbies, it may be beneficial to take a day or two off. Give yourself a break, and return to your activities to prevent your muscles from becoming weaker and increasing pain.

• • Ice and Heat Therapy – Applying ice to the area can help reduce swelling, and it is recommended to apply heat within the first 48hrs. This treatment depends on preference but should be done for only 20 minutes, and keep an eye on the skin to avoid tissue damage. 

• • Massage – Massage is beneficial for back pain relief, even if the effects are merely temporary. A good massage can help loosen any tight muscles and help increase blood flow to the painful area. 

Sometimes finding the best treatment option is through trial and error and a combination of some techniques. It depends on the individual and which works best for your specific needs.

Reduce The Risk of Upper Back Pain

Sometimes, pain is a result of our everyday lifestyle or routine. Some ways to help reduce the risk of upper back pain include:

• • Exercise- This can mean going on hikes or walking regularly. Staying active with non-contact sports, strength training, and stretching can be valuable ways to help condition the back. Keeping your back strong and flexible can help maintain and upkeep spinal function and reduce the risk of developing pain.

• • Practice Better Posture- Good posture, meaning keeping your head in a neutral position, with your ears directly over your shoulders, tends to add the least amount of pressure to your neck and back. Doing this while standing, sitting, walking, or lifting heavy objects can reduce your risk of developing pain. Adjusting your habits to do this may mean setting up an ergonomic workstation at work, bending your knees when lifting heavy objects, and utilizing both straps of a backpack.

• • Quit Smoking- Various studies have shown smokers are more likely to experience chronic back pain and accelerated degeneration of spinal discs. One of the reasons is that nicotine restricts blood flow, therefore reducing nutrient flow to the discs.

Dr. Han Jo Kim – Top Long Island Spine Surgeons

Prolonged upper back pain may indicate the need for help from a medical professional. Surgery may be an option if the health of the spinal nerves or roots is at risk, the severe spinal deformity has developed or is likely, and if the pain is debilitating without surgery. Dr. Han Jo Kim, top Long Island spine surgeons, utilizes the most effective and safe techniques tailored to each patient to minimize complications, recovery time and give optimal results! Contact Dr. Han Jo Kim, spinal surgeon nyc, and see what relief he can provide you with today! Call us to make an appointment with our office today, and you are one step closer to relief.

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How Do You Treat a Lumbar Strain?

Lumbar strains are one of the most common causes of back pain. More specifically, they can account for around 70% of lower back pain. A lumbar strain consists of the ligaments in the back being torn from their attachments. This results in spasms or soreness in the lower back. At Dr. Han Jo Kim’s office, we offer several treatments to treat lumbar strains and relieve lower back pain. Our top Long Island spine surgeons is prepared to select the best treatment plan for you and inform you how to avoid further back injury.

Lumbar Strain Causes

Certain activities or actions can damage the tendons and muscles in the lower back, also known as a lumbar strain. Causes of the injury consist of, but are not limited to:

• • Bending or crouching incorrectly for long periods

• • Extreme physical exertion

• • Falling

• • Lifting heavy objects

Lumbar Strain Risk Factors

Risk factors can increase your chances of obtaining a lumbar strain. It is important to be aware of the risk factors of a lumbar strain to avoid lower back pain as much as possible. Risk factors include the following:

• • Emotional stress

• • Excessive lower back curvature

• • Forward-tilted pelvis

• • Improper posture

• • Obesity

• • Severe Cough

• • Tight hamstrings

• • Weak back or abdominal muscles

Symptoms of a Lumbar Strain

The symptoms of a lumbar strain will vary from person to person. The symptoms of a lumbar strain may be confused with other back problems, so it is important to see our top Long Island spine surgeons for a proper diagnosis. Symptoms may last for a few days with proper treatment or could not completely resolve for weeks or months without treatment. These symptoms include:

• • Sudden pain around the lower back or upper buttocks

• • Muscle spasms resulting in more extreme pain
  • Pain associated with actions like bending, stretching, coughing, or sneezing

At-Home Care

If you are looking to ease a less severe lumbar strain at home, try the following remedies to see if pain lessens:

• • Apply an ice pack for 15 to 20-minute intervals.

• • After the first few days, try heat for 15 minutes at a time to ease the pain.

• • Use over-the-counter medicines to help control pain and swelling, such as aspirin or ibuprofen.

If your pain is still persistent, come to our top Long Island spine surgeons for further treatment.

Lumbar Strain Diagnosis

Our healthcare specialist will perform several tests, along with an assessment of your medical history, to determine if you are suffering from a lumbar strain. Some of these diagnostic tests will be performed through:

• • Computed tomography scan (CAT scan)- Shows details of the bones, muscles, fat, and organs.

• • Electromyogram (EMG)- Evaluates nerve and muscle function.

• • Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)- produces detailed images of organs and structures within the body.

• • Radionuclide bone scan- Shows blood flow to the bone and cell activity within the bone.

• • X-ray- Takes images of internal tissues, bones, and organs.

Top Long Island Spine Surgeons Lumbar Strain Treatment

Our back specialist will decide on a treatment plan depending on the symptoms of your lumbar strain. Treatments such as anti-inflammatory medicine or spinal injections provided by our top Long Island spine surgeons may be recommended to relieve pain and inflammation in more serious cases of a lumbar strain. In less severe cases, the following treatments can be advised:

• • Abdominal muscle exercises

• • Ice packs or heat and compression

• • Rest

• • Stretching and strengthening exercises to heal lower back

Lumbar Strain Recovery

Depending on the severity of your lumbar strain and the form of treatment recommended, your lumbar strain can last anywhere from a couple of days to weeks. Everyone heals at different rates. Once your back pain is gone, our doctor will want to see you again to provide tips and exercises for prevention in the future. 

Avoiding Lumbar Strain–Top Long Island Spine Surgeons

Some tips that can refrain you from straining your lower back or furthering the injury include the following:

• • Adopt good posture

• • Avoid sleeping on your stomach

• • Bend at the knees, not the waist

• • Exercise and stretch back muscles regularly

• • Lose weight if you are overweight

• • Stop or ease physical activity if you start to feel low back pain

Contact Top Long Island Spine Surgeons

Our staff at Dr. Han Jo Kim’s office cares about our patients and their well-being. To schedule an appointment to treat your lumbar strain or learn more about back problems, contact our office. Our top Long Island spine surgeons is dedicated to his craft and wants to provide you with the proper treatment you need to relieve back pain from a lumbar strain. Contact us today to help with your back injury.

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 Dr. Han Jo Kim – Transforming Lives Through Exceptional Spine Care on Long Island

Embark on a journey towards spine health with the expertise of Dr. Han Jo Kim, one of Long Island’s most respected spine surgeons. Discover why finding the best care for your spine is not just about treatment; it’s about regaining control of your life. If you’re on Long Island and seeking the finest spine care, with our long island spine specialist understanding the intricacies of spine health and the role of top-notch specialists like Dr. Han Jo Kim is crucial. This unpacks the essentials, from our spine specialist long island providing insights into the world of spinal care and why Dr. Han Jo Kim is at the forefront for back surgery of long island.

What Makes Dr. Han Jo Kim Among the 10 Best Spine Surgeons on Long Island?

Dr. Han Jo Kim stands out as a board-certified spine surgeon, bringing a wealth of expertise to Long Island. Learn why being among the 10 best spine surgeons is not just about skill but a commitment to excellence, ensuring the highest quality care for patients of all ages. Explore how Dr. Han Jo Kim’s world-class spine care goes beyond mere treatment. Discover the state-of-the-art diagnostic imaging, surgery fellowship, back and neck pain, sports medicine, top spine rehabilitation, orthopedic, and surgery residency that contribute to his exceptional capabilities.

What Spine Conditions Does Dr. Han Jo Kim Specialize In?

Delve into the various spine conditions that Dr. Han Jo Kim specializes in. From musculoskeletal issues to chronic pain, understand how a comprehensive approach is taken to diagnose the underlying cause of different back and neck conditions. Uncover the treatment options available for various spine conditions. Whether it’s non-surgical interventions or advanced surgical procedures, Dr. Han Jo Kim ensures that each patient receives the care necessary to bring life back to normal. We have a location near great neck for a back doctors surgeons in long island.

Why Choose Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery with Dr. Han Jo Kim?

Explore the world of minimally invasive spine surgery and why it has become a preferred choice. Dr. Han Jo Kim’s expertise in this area ensures that patients experience less trauma, quicker recovery, and effective solutions for their spine issues. Understand the advanced techniques employed in minimally invasive spine surgery. From smaller incisions to reduced postoperative pain, discover how Dr. Han Jo Kim, our spine doctor, maximizes results while minimizing the impact on the patient.

How Does Dr. Han Jo Kim Prioritize Patient Care in Spinal Treatment?

Learn about Dr. Han Jo Kim’s commitment to patient care. From diagnosis to treatment, discover the personalized approach that ensures each patient receives the best care possible. Explore the significance of scheduling a consultation with Dr. Han Jo Kim. Discover why taking this step is crucial for receiving the tailored care needed for various spinal issues, spine pain, neck and back pain from our spine experts in greater new york treating back conditions.

What Pain Management Options Does Dr. Han Jo Kim Offer?

Understand the role of pain management in Dr. Han Jo Kim’s practice. Whether surgical or non-surgical, explore the different options available for managing and alleviating chronic pain related to spinal conditions. Discover the innovative treatments employed to address chronic pain. From non-surgical interventions to the latest in pain medicine, Dr. Han Jo Kim ensures that patients experience relief tailored to their specific needs.

Dr. Han Jo Kim – Your Partner in Spinal Wellness on Long Island

Dr. Han Jo Kim emerges as a beacon of hope for those seeking top-notch spinal care on Long Island. From being among the best spine surgeons to offering a comprehensive range of treatments, his commitment to patients’ well-being is unparalleled. If you’re navigating spinal issues, remember, with Dr. Han Jo Kim, you’re not just receiving treatment; you’re gaining a partner dedicated to helping you reclaim your life.