How Does Disc Replacement Surgery Work?
Artificial disc replacement is a surgical procedure that can replace a damaged or diseased intervertebral disc in your neck or back. But how exactly does it work? Read on to learn more about disc replacement.
When Is It Time to Get a Second Opinion About My Back Pain?
It’s no secret that back pain can dramatically impact your quality of life, reduce your mobility, and even affect your mental health. So, if your current treatment isn’t improving any of these areas, it’s nothing short of frustrating.
If you’re considering a second opinion for unrelenting back pain, you’re not alone. About one in five people who visit a doctor’s office seek a second opinion—so is it time for you to get a second opinion?
If you're not getting the relief you need, a second opinion with Dr. John Regan can provide fresh insights and alternative treatment options.
Here are five signs that it’s time to seek a second opinion about your back pain.
1. Your back pain is getting worse
Acute back pain resolves in less than four weeks, but once your back extends beyond that, it’s considered chronic.
If you've been following your doctor’s recommendations for weeks or months with little to no improvement, it’s worth getting a second opinion. You should also consider a second opinion if your pain is getting worse.
Chronic pain that lingers despite treatment may indicate a misdiagnosis or the need for a different approach.
2. You were told open surgery is your only option
Surgery can be life-changing, but it’s not always the only solution. If a doctor recommends open surgery as your only option, Dr. Regan may be able to offer less invasive treatments, such as injections, physical therapy, or regenerative medicine.
Even if you do need surgery, open surgery isn’t necessarily the only option. Dr. Regan prioritizes minimally invasive surgical techniques when possible. Minimally invasive spine surgery often leads to a shorter recovery time with less post-operative pain, swelling, and bleeding.
3. Your diagnosis is unclear
Back pain can stem from many causes—herniated discs, spinal stenosis, arthritis, or even nerve damage. If your diagnosis is uncertain or your doctor hasn’t fully explained the root cause of your pain, a second opinion may give you more clarity.
4. You feel rushed
You deserve to feel confident in your treatment plan. If your doctor rushes through appointments, dismisses your concerns, or doesn’t fully explain your options, don’t hesitate to reach out to Spine Group Beverly Hills for another opinion. Our team takes pride in providing a patient-centered approach to care.
5. You want to explore cutting-edge treatments
Like many areas of medicine, back pain treatments are constantly evolving. If your doctor isn't offering the latest treatment options—such as minimally invasive procedures or regenerative medicine—a second opinion may introduce you to newer treatments.
Dr. Regan stays at the forefront of spine care and continually researches and adopts the latest techniques. His expertise has been featured in numerous publications, and he has contributed to groundbreaking research in the field. Feel free to explore his published work here and see where he’s been featured in the news here.
How to initiate a second opinion if you live in California, Montana, or Texas
If you’re considering a second opinion with Dr. Regan, the process is straightforward. Residents of California, Montana, and Texas can schedule either a phone consultation or an in-person consultation with Dr. Regan.
To get started with your second opinion at Spine Group Beverly Hills, call 310-254-9098. You can also email us to schedule your consultation.
You need to complete a New Patient Registration Form and submit your medical history and imaging (X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans) at least three business days before your appointment.
How to initiate a second opinion outside of California, Montana, or Texas
If you're outside California, Montana, or Texas, you can fill out a brief online questionnaire for an initial review by a physician assistant. While this isn’t a formal consultation, it can help determine whether an in-person visit would be worthwhile.
What to expect during your consultation
Dr. Regan thoroughly reviews your case in advance and discusses his findings with you during your scheduled call. He then discusses your potential treatment options, answers any questions, and provides expert recommendations.
For appointments, call 424-238-3281 or use our online scheduling tool.
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