Back Pain
Spinal Pain
Comprehensive Relief for Spinal Pain in Phoenix, AZ
“Spinal pain” is a broad term describing discomfort that arises from any part of the spine — the cervical (neck), thoracic (mid-back), lumbar (lower back), or sacral regions. The pain may be sharp, achy, radiating, or even accompanied by numbness and weakness, depending on the underlying condition. At Desert Spine and Pain, we know spinal pain can disrupt every part of life. That’s why our approach goes beyond temporary fixes. Under the leadership of Dr. David L. Greenwald, M.D., FAANS, FACS, a board-certified neurosurgeon with more than 30 years of experience, we provide precise diagnosis, advanced conservative therapies, and when necessary, minimally invasive surgical solutions.
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Over 30 Years Experience in Orthopedic & Neuro Spine Surgeries.
What Is Spinal Pain?
Spinal pain is not a diagnosis in itself but a symptom of an underlying condition. Causes can include muscle or ligament strain, degenerative changes, disc problems, arthritis, spinal stenosis, fractures, or even tumors.
Understanding the exact source of spinal pain is critical — treating only the symptom can lead to frustration, while treating the cause brings long-term relief.
Common Causes of Spinal Pain
Muscle or ligament injuries – Overuse, sudden movement, or trauma
Degenerative Disc Disease – Age-related wear and tear of spinal discs Read about Degenerative Disc Disease
Facet Joint Syndrome – Arthritis of the spine’s small stabilizing joints Learn about Facet Joint Syndrome
Herniated Disc – Disc material pressing on spinal nerves Explore Herniated Disc
Spinal Stenosis – Narrowing of the spinal canal causing nerve compression Discover Spinal Stenosis
Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction – Pain at the joint where the spine meets the pelvis See SI Joint Dysfunction
Compression Fractures – Bone collapse often from trauma or osteoporosis Read about Compression Fractures
Symptoms
Localized or diffuse back pain
Stiffness or loss of mobility
Radiating pain into arms or legs
Tingling, numbness, or weakness (sign of nerve involvement)
Pain that worsens with activity and improves with rest
Diagnosis
At Desert Spine and Pain, our diagnostic approach is designed to identify the true source of spinal pain:
Medical history and physical exam – To understand pain triggers and assess neurological function.
Imaging – X-ray, MRI, or CT scans to evaluate bones, discs, and nerves.
Targeted diagnostic injections – To confirm whether specific joints or discs are the source of pain.
Treatment Options
Non-Surgical Care
Medications (anti-inflammatories, pain relievers)
Physical therapy to strengthen core and improve posture See Physical Therapy
Lifestyle adjustments, including ergonomics and weight management
Heat, ice, and gentle stretching
Interventional Options
Epidural Steroid Injections
Facet or SI joint injections
Radiofrequency ablation (nerve-targeted pain relief)
Surgical Options
When conservative options fail, advanced surgical solutions may include:
Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery
Microdiscectomy for nerve compression
Spinal Fusion for severe instability or deformity
Recovery Timeline
Acute injuries – Improve within days to weeks
Chronic conditions – Managed with therapy and interventional care
Surgery – Minimally invasive procedures often allow return to activity in weeks, while fusion may require months
Why Choose Desert Spine and Pain?
Expert diagnosis – Dr. Greenwald is highly skilled at pinpointing pain sources.
Comprehensive options – From conservative to surgical care, all in one center.
National reputation – Dr. Greenwald is a board-certified neurosurgeon trusted nationwide.
Compassionate care – We focus on reassurance and step-by-step guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is spinal pain always serious?
Not always. Many cases are due to muscle strain. But persistent or worsening pain should be evaluated to rule out structural problems.
What’s the difference between back pain and spinal pain?
“Back pain” usually refers to a localized area, while “spinal pain” is a broader term that can involve multiple regions or conditions.
Can spinal pain go away on its own?
Mild pain may improve with rest, stretching, and over-the-counter care. Chronic pain often requires medical evaluation.
When is surgery necessary for spinal pain?
Surgery is considered only if conservative measures fail or if there’s nerve/spinal cord compression.
How can I prevent spinal pain?
Maintain strong core muscles, good posture, healthy weight, and avoid smoking. Ergonomics at work are also key.
Dr. David L. Greenwald, MD
Neuro-Spine Surgeon
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Pain Relief begins here.
Living with spinal pain can limit your movement, focus, and enjoyment of everyday life—but it doesn’t have to. Dr. Greenwald and his compassionate team are dedicated to helping you find lasting relief through advanced diagnostics and customized treatment options. Every step you take toward better spine health brings you closer to comfort and confidence. Let us help you start that journey today—schedule your consultation and take the first step toward living pain-free.
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Over 30 Years Experience in Orthopedic & Neuro Spine Surgeries.
Dr. David L. Greenwald, M.D., F.A.C.S.
Neurosurgeon | Spine Surgeon | Regenerative Medicine
Dr. David L. Greenwald, MD, FACS, is a highly skilled spine surgeon specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of spinal pain caused by conditions affecting the cervical, thoracic, or lumbar regions of the spine. Whether your pain is due to degenerative disc disease, herniated discs, arthritis, or spinal instability, Dr. Greenwald uses advanced, minimally invasive techniques to accurately identify the source and provide effective relief. His approach prioritizes conservative care when possible and surgical precision when necessary, helping patients throughout South Florida regain mobility, reduce pain, and restore quality of life with personalized, expert care.
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