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Leg Pain: A Symptom That Deserves a Smarter Solution

Founded by Dr. Michael Gerling, a nationally respected expert in minimally invasive and nerve-focused spine surgery, our New York City practice is built on a foundation of advanced diagnostics, innovative treatments, and deeply compassionate care. With convenient locations from Park Avenue to the outer boroughs, we make world-class spine and nerve care accessible to those who need it most.

Our multidisciplinary team includes board-certified specialists in neurology, spine surgery, and regenerative medicine. Together, we take a focused, collaborative approach to identify the true source of your leg pain. We emphasize non-surgical treatment whenever possible, creating personalized plans that relieve discomfort, improve function, and support long-term mobility. When needed, we offer minimally invasive procedures and regenerative therapies designed to accelerate recovery and minimize disruption to your life.

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Common Causes of Leg Pain

Understanding the root cause is key to long-term relief, as leg pain can originate from the spine, nerves, joints, muscles, or vascular system. Common culprits include:

  • Sciatica: Nerve irritation in the lower spine radiating down the leg.
  • Herniated discs: Bulging or ruptured discs pressing on nerve roots.
  • Spinal stenosis: Narrowing of the spinal canal compressing nerves.
  • Peripheral neuropathy: Nerve damage from diabetes, injury, or disease.
  • Vascular issues: Poor circulation or arterial blockages.
  • Muscle or ligament strain: Overuse, injury, or biomechanical imbalances.
  • Joint degeneration: Hip, knee, or spinal arthritis.

When Should You See a Specialist?

While many cases of leg pain improve with rest or conservative care, some symptoms may indicate a more serious issue requiring professional attention. Additionally, early diagnosis can help prevent progression and avoid long-term complications. You should seek medical evaluation if leg pain is:

  • Persistent or worsening despite self-care
  • Accompanied by numbness, tingling, or weakness
  • Triggered by walking and relieved by rest (suggesting spinal or vascular causes)
  • Caused by trauma or injury
  • Interfering with walking or weight-bearing
  • Paired with swelling, skin changes, or temperature shifts
  • Associated with bowel or bladder dysfunction (seek immediate care)

Conditions We Treat

At our New York City and tristate area locations, we regularly diagnose and treat:

  • Lumbar disc herniation
  • Sciatic nerve compression
  • Degenerative disc disease
  • Foraminal and central spinal stenosis
  • Spondylolisthesis
  • Sacroiliac (SI) joint dysfunction
  • Piriformis syndrome
  • Lumbar radiculopathy
  • Peripheral nerve entrapment
  • Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS)
  • Post-laminectomy or post-surgical pain syndromes
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How We Diagnose the Cause of Leg Pain

A detailed diagnosis is essential. Our comprehensive process may include:

  • In-depth physical and neurological exams to evaluate movement, strength, and sensation
  • Advanced imaging (MRI, CT scan, X-ray) to assess spinal and joint anatomy
  • Electrodiagnostic studies, such as EMG and nerve conduction tests
  • Image-guided diagnostic injections to isolate pain sources and inform treatment
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Why Choose Gerling Spine Care and Research Institute?

With seven convenient locations throughout New York City and New Jersey, we’re dedicated to making expert spine care both accessible and exceptional. And because of our meticulous, evidence-based methods, our complication and reoperation rates remain remarkably low.

But what truly sets us apart is the experience we create for every patient—a concierge-level, whole-person model of care that treats you with the respect, empathy, and precision you deserve.

Treatment, Recovery, and Results

Your care plan is built around your needs and lifestyle. Depending on the diagnosis, treatments may include:

  • Minimally invasive procedures, such as microdiscectomy or nerve decompression
  • Image-guided injections, radiofrequency ablation, or neuromodulation for targeted pain relief
  • Regenerative medicine, such as PRP or stem cell therapies, to reduce inflammation and support healing
  • Surgical options, reserved only when necessary and performed with minimally invasive precision

Recovery time varies, but many patients experience noticeable improvements within a few weeks. We’ll be with you every step of the way—from diagnosis to rehabilitation and beyond.

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Related Treatment Options

Because leg pain can originate from different systems, we assess and treat various subtypes, including:

  • Neuropathic pain: Sharp, burning, or electric sensations.
  • Mechanical pain: Aching or stabbing pain with movement.
  • Vascular pain: Cramping or fatigue in the legs with exertion.
  • Referred pain: Leg discomfort caused by hip, pelvic, or spinal conditions.

As such, we offer expert care for:

  • Lumbar and cervical spine conditions
  • Chronic back or neck pain
  • Peripheral nerve disorders
  • Orthobiologic therapies for healing and repair
  • Functional restoration programs to support long-term mobility
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You Don’t Have to Live with Leg Pain

At Gerling Spine Care and Research Institute, we help New Yorkers break free from the limits of leg pain with clear answers, innovative care, and genuine compassion. From the Upper East Side to the tri-state area, our expert team is here to guide you toward lasting relief. Book your personalized consultation today.

Our Locations

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We're here to help you move forward.

Relief starts with quality orthopedic care. Contact us today to take the next step toward a more active, pain-free life.

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