In-person consultations are available at our Los Angeles clinic only.
In-Person consultations: LA Only

Expert Spinal Cord Specialist in Los Angeles

At Southern California Brain & Spine Surgery, Dr. Moksha Ranasinghe, MD, FAANS, recognized as a leading spinal cord specialist in Los Angeles, provides advanced care for spinal cord compression, cervical myelopathy, and complex neurological conditions. She delivers expert solutions for individuals throughout Southern California and offers virtual second opinions worldwide.

Who Is a Spinal Cord Specialist?

A spinal cord specialist is a neurosurgeon or orthopedic spine surgeon with advanced training in diagnosing and treating conditions affecting the spinal cord itself, rather than just the surrounding spinal structures. At Southern California Brain and Spine Surgery, our spinal cord specialist focuses on complex neurological conditions where the spinal cord is compressed, injured, or diseased. The spinal cord is the critical nerve bundle running from your brain through the spinal canal, transmitting signals that control movement, sensation, and autonomic functions throughout your body. When the spinal cord becomes compressed or damaged, the resulting neurological problems can affect areas far from the site of injury. 

When You Should See A Spinal Cord Specialist

If You Experience Hand Clumsiness or Coordination Problems

Difficulty buttoning shirts, dropping objects frequently, or trouble with fine motor tasks like writing can indicate spinal cord compression in the neck. A spinal cord specialist can evaluate whether these symptoms result from cervical myelopathy requiring specialized treatment to prevent permanent neurological damage.

If You Have Balance Problems or Unsteady Walking

Feeling unsteady on your feet, walking with a wide-based gait, or experiencing frequent falls despite no dizziness may signal spinal cord involvement. These symptoms indicate the spinal cord's motor pathways are affected and require prompt evaluation by a spinal cord specialist.

If You Have Neck Pain with Arm and Leg Symptoms

When neck pain is accompanied by weakness, numbness, or coordination problems in both your arms and legs, this suggests the spinal cord itself may be compressed. A spinal cord specialist can determine if you have cervical myelopathy affecting multiple body regions.

If Imaging Shows Spinal Cord Compression

If your MRI reveals spinal cord compression, signal changes in the cord, or narrowing around the spinal cord, you need evaluation by a spinal cord specialist even if symptoms seem mild. Early intervention can prevent progression to permanent spinal cord damage.

The Value of a Second Opinion

A second opinion can be life-changing. Medical research shows:

6 %

of patients received a revised or more accurate diagnosis after seeking a second opinion.

11 %

of patients who sought a second opinion discovered that the initial surgeon had recommended the wrong surgery.

5 %

of second opinions revealed that the recommended surgery was unnecessary.

Your health decisions should be based on clarity and confidence. At Southern California Brain & Spine Surgery, we take the time to evaluate your case thoroughly helping you make the best choice for your well-being.

Conditions Treated by Spinal Cord Specialists

At Southern California Brain & Spine Surgery, our spinal cord specialist treats conditions affecting the spinal cord and related neurological structures. We specialize in spinal cord compression. Our spinal cord specialist also treats back pain related to spinal cord issues, neck pain with neurological symptoms, brachial plexus injuries, foot pain due to spine problems, scoliosis with cord compression, spinal arteriovenous malformations (AVMs), spinal arthritis, and spondylosis and spondylolisthesis. Dr. Ranasinghe spinal cord specialist brings over 20 years of expertise in diagnosing and treating these conditions, ensuring Los Angeles patients receive the highest standard of spinal cord care.

Spinal cord specialist explaining cervical spine anatomy using vertebral model for patient education.

Why Early Diagnosis Matters for Spinal Cord Health

The spinal cord is unique because damage to it is often permanent and irreversible. Unlike bones that heal or muscles that regenerate, spinal cord tissue has limited ability to recover once injured. When spinal cord compression begins, symptoms may start subtly mild hand clumsiness, slight balance changes, or occasional numbness. Many patients dismiss these early warning signs, but untreated spinal cord compression progressively worsens. A spinal cord specialist can identify warning signs early through comprehensive neurological examination and advanced imaging, then intervene before irreversible damage develops. At Southern California Brain & Spine Surgery, we emphasize prompt evaluation when any symptoms suggest possible spinal cord involvement. Early intervention by an experienced spinal cord specialist maximizes the chances of preserving full neurological function and preventing permanent disability.

Spinal cord specialist reviewing spinal imaging and X-rays with medical team for diagnosis of spinal cord compression.

Meet Dr. Moksha Ranasinghe, MD

Award-Winning Spine Surgeon | Harvard-Trained Expert

Dr. Moksha Ranasinghe, MD, FAANS, is a renowned spine surgeon dedicated to helping patients regain mobility and live pain-free. Her commitment to precision, patient education, and minimally invasive treatments has earned her the trust of patients nationwide.

Hospital Affiliations

What our Patients Say

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

When you choose our Virtual Second Opinion, you’ll provide your information and upload your medical records. Our expert doctor, specializing in your condition, will review your case in detail and provide a comprehensive second opinion report. This report will address your condition and concerns specifically. Additionally, you’ll have the option to schedule a virtual consultation with the doctor to discuss the report and ask any questions you may have.

A Virtual Second Opinion is valuable in the following situations:

  • You want to confirm or refine your diagnosis.
  • Your condition isn’t improving, or your symptoms are worsening after treatment.
  • You’ve been diagnosed with a serious spine condition.
  • You’re considering invasive spine surgery and have concerns about the risks or recovery time.
  • You’ve been told that your condition is untreatable or that surgery is not an option.
  • You need guidance on the best treatment options for your condition.

Our Virtual Second Opinion service can assess a range of spine conditions, including herniated discs, spinal stenosis, degenerative disc disease, scoliosis, and spinal tumors. If you’re unsure whether your condition qualifies, feel free to contact us for more information.

Currently, we offer Virtual Second Opinions for children, but only for a specific set of medical conditions. Please contact us at (213) 369-4583 to discuss whether your child’s condition qualifies for this service.

Yes, you can request a Virtual Second Opinion for a loved one over 18 for any available condition. For minors (under 18), you must be the parent or legal guardian. Participation from your loved one is required at key stages of the process to ensure we provide the best second opinion possible. For more information, please contact us at (213) 369-4583.

Most doctors are supportive of second opinions, as they help ensure all treatment options are considered. It’s common for doctors to encourage patients to seek additional insights, especially when making significant healthcare decisions.

Once we receive your medical records, we aim to provide your second opinion report within 4 to 6 business days. Please note that delays in obtaining records from other providers may affect this timeline. We will keep you updated throughout the process.

No, you don’t need to send your medical records by mail. Please upload clear copies of all relevant documents, including MRI and CT scans, along with any other medical records.

We’re unable to offer Virtual Second Opinion services to individuals who are currently hospitalized. It’s best to participate once you’ve been discharged, so we can access the most up-to-date and complete health information.

No, there is no obligation to receive treatment at Southern California Brain & Spine Surgery after a Virtual Second Opinion. While we can help arrange treatment if necessary, you are free to choose any provider for your care.

Due to state regulations, our Virtual Second Opinion service is not available to residents of certain countries. If this applies to you, we will notify you and offer the option for an in-person appointment instead.

Meet Dr. Moksha Ranasinghe, MD

Award-Winning Spine Surgeon

Dr. Moksha Ranasinghe, MD, FAANS, is a renowned spine surgeon dedicated to helping patients regain mobility and live pain-free. Her commitment to precision, patient education, and minimally invasive treatments has earned her the trust of patients nationwide.

Hospital Affiliations

Dr. Moksha Ranasinghe affiliated with Digital Health, PIH Health, Beverly Hospital, Hollywood Presbyterian Medical Center, Southern California Hospital Hollywood

What our Patients Say

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

When you choose our Virtual Second Opinion, you’ll provide your information and upload your medical records. Our expert doctor, specializing in your condition, will review your case in detail and provide a comprehensive second opinion report. This report will address your condition and concerns specifically. Additionally, you’ll have the option to schedule a virtual consultation with the doctor to discuss the report and ask any questions you may have.

A Virtual Second Opinion is valuable in the following situations:

  • You want to confirm or refine your diagnosis.
  • Your condition isn’t improving, or your symptoms are worsening after treatment.
  • You’ve been diagnosed with a serious spine condition.
  • You’re considering invasive spine surgery and have concerns about the risks or recovery time.
  • You’ve been told that your condition is untreatable or that surgery is not an option.
  • You need guidance on the best treatment options for your condition.

Our Virtual Second Opinion service can assess a range of spine conditions, including herniated discs, spinal stenosis, degenerative disc disease, scoliosis, and spinal tumors. If you’re unsure whether your condition qualifies, feel free to contact us for more information.

Currently, we offer Virtual Second Opinions for children, but only for a specific set of medical conditions. Please contact us at (213) 369-4583 to discuss whether your child’s condition qualifies for this service.

Yes, you can request a Virtual Second Opinion for a loved one over 18 for any available condition. For minors (under 18), you must be the parent or legal guardian. Participation from your loved one is required at key stages of the process to ensure we provide the best second opinion possible. For more information, please contact us at (213) 369-4583.

Most doctors are supportive of second opinions, as they help ensure all treatment options are considered. It’s common for doctors to encourage patients to seek additional insights, especially when making significant healthcare decisions.

Once we receive your medical records, we aim to provide your second opinion report within 4 to 6 business days. Please note that delays in obtaining records from other providers may affect this timeline. We will keep you updated throughout the process.

No, you don’t need to send your medical records by mail. Please upload clear copies of all relevant documents, including MRI and CT scans, along with any other medical records.

We’re unable to offer Virtual Second Opinion services to individuals who are currently hospitalized. It’s best to participate once you’ve been discharged, so we can access the most up-to-date and complete health information.

No, there is no obligation to receive treatment at Southern California Brain & Spine Surgery after a Virtual Second Opinion. While we can help arrange treatment if necessary, you are free to choose any provider for your care.

Due to state regulations, our Virtual Second Opinion service is not available to residents of certain countries. If this applies to you, we will notify you and offer the option for an in-person appointment instead.

Precision, care, and expertise for your neurosurgical needs, ensuring optimal recovery and well-being.

1300 N Vermont, Suite 600, Los Angeles, CA, 90027

© Copyright 2025 Southern California Brain & Spine Surgery.

Precision, care, and expertise for your neurosurgical needs, ensuring optimal recovery and well-being.

1300 N Vermont, Suite 600, Los Angeles, CA, 90027

© Copyright 2025 Southern California Brain & Spine Surgery.