If you’ve ever dealt with back or neck pain in New Orleans, you’re not alone. These are among the most common reasons people visit the doctor—and some of the most overlooked. Pain can sneak up and slow you down. But how do you know when it’s time to see a spine specialist?
At Orthopaedic Associates of New Orleans, we treat back and neck pain every day—and we know how to help patients get back to their lives with less pain and more freedom. Below, our experts weigh in on when it’s time to schedule a visit.
When “Wait and See” Isn’t Working
Most minor back or neck pain will improve with rest, gentle movement, and time. But if it sticks around longer than two to four weeks—or if it keeps flaring up—it’s time to get it checked out.
“Back or neck pain that doesn’t improve after a few weeks is your body’s way of saying something more might be going on,” says Felipe Ramirez, MD, orthopedic spine surgeon at OANO. “We can help determine whether the issue is muscular, disc-related, or nerve-based, and create a plan that works for your lifestyle.”
Pain That Radiates? Don’t Ignore It.
A telltale sign of nerve involvement is pain that shoots down your leg—or from your neck into your shoulder or arm—sometimes with numbness or tingling. It might feel like burning, zapping, or pressure—and it could mean a herniated disc, pinched nerve, or sciatica.
“This kind of pain is more than just a nuisance,” explains Ashlyn Harris, PA-C, a spine care specialist at OANO. “It’s often a sign of nerve compression, and early treatment can prevent long-term damage.”
We regularly treat patients from the North Shore who commute for expert spine care, as well as those along the South Shore and throughout all New Orleans neighborhoods. You don’t need to wait until the pain gets worse.
Red Flags That Call for Immediate Attention
While many causes of back or neck pain are mechanical (like muscle strain or poor posture), some symptoms should never be ignored:
- Numbness or weakness in your arms, legs, hands, or feet
- Trouble with balance or coordination
- Loss of bladder or bowel control
- Unexplained fever or weight loss
These may indicate serious spinal or neurological conditions that require urgent evaluation.
Expert Spine Care—Close to Home
Whether you’re biking the levee in Uptown, working long hours in Metairie, or staying active on the North Shore, chronic back or neck pain can keep you from the lifestyle you love.
“Our goal isn’t just to relieve pain—it’s to help you feel like yourself again,” says Dr. Ramirez. “We work with each patient to create a plan that supports long-term recovery and sustainable movement.”
From conservative treatment options like physical therapy and injections to surgical solutions when needed, we’re here to help you move forward with confidence.
Convenient Locations Across Greater New Orleans
You don’t have to cross the lake—or wait weeks for an appointment—to get relief. Our spine care team sees patients quickly at our Uptown and Metairie clinics.
No referral is needed, walk-in care is available, and most major insurance plans are accepted.
Book Today, Feel Better Tomorrow
If back or neck pain is interfering with your sleep, work, or everyday life, it’s time to take the next step. Let the trusted spine specialists at OANO guide you toward lasting relief.
👉 Give us a call or click here to schedule an appointment with Dr. Felipe Ramirez, Ashlyn Harris, PA-C, or another member of our expert team.
