Back and neck pain care in San Francisco and Santa Barbara
Most back and neck pain improves with the right plan, but some pain needs a closer look. Dr. Christian Guier evaluates spine-related pain and helps you choose the next step.
Common back and neck problems
Muscle strains and sprains
Strained muscles and ligaments are the most common cause of sudden low back pain and usually improve over a few weeks.
Herniated or bulging discs
A disc can press on a nearby nerve, causing pain, numbness or tingling that travels into an arm or leg.
Sciatica
Irritation of the nerve roots in the low back causes pain that travels from the buttock down the back of the leg.
Disc wear and spinal arthritis
As the spine ages, discs and joints can wear, leading to stiffness and aching, especially after sitting or first thing in the morning.
Spinal stenosis
Narrowing of the spaces around the nerves can cause leg pain, heaviness or numbness with walking that eases when you sit or lean forward.
Neck pain and stiffness
Posture, long hours at a desk, sleeping position and sudden jolts like whiplash can all strain the neck.
When to see an orthopedic surgeon
- Pain that lasts more than a few weeks
- Pain, numbness or tingling that travels down an arm or leg
- Weakness in an arm, hand, leg or foot
- Pain after a fall, car accident or sports injury
- Back pain along with fever or unexplained weight loss
Get emergency care if
You lose control of your bladder or bowels, have numbness in the groin or inner thighs, or have leg weakness that is quickly getting worse. These can signal serious nerve compression and need emergency care right away.
Christian A. Guier, MD CM, FAAOS, FACS
How Dr. Guier evaluates your back and neck
Dr. Guier reviews how the pain started, where it travels and what eases it, then checks your posture, motion, strength, reflexes and sensation. Imaging is ordered when your symptoms or exam call for it.
He'll review any X-rays or MRI with you and explain what they show before discussing options.
Non-surgical care
- Staying as active as pain allows, with a short period of rest if needed
- Physical therapy and core strengthening
- Posture and workstation changes
- Anti-inflammatory medication when appropriate
- Injections or specialist referral when appropriate
When surgery may help
If your back or neck needs surgery, Dr. Guier will explain what the imaging shows and help coordinate care with a spine surgeon.
Dr. Guier will walk you through every reasonable option and help you choose what fits your goals.
What patients say
Doctor Christian was friendly and patient, listening to my symptom, taking the time to go over my medical history, answering my questions, and explaining my MRI result with easily understood language. I would 100% recommend him.
Dr. Guier is a wonderful Doctor who listens and advocates for the patient.
Dr. Guier is the nicest doctor I have had the pleasure of visiting. I've never met a doctor that was so empathetic.
Back and neck questions
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This page is for general education and isn't medical advice. For advice about your situation, request a consultation. Last updated September 2026.