In-person consultations are available at our Los Angeles clinic only.
In-Person consultations: LA Only
When spine problems disrupt your life, choosing the right spinal specialist makes all the difference. At Southern California Brain and Spine Surgery, Dr. Moksha Ranasinghe provides comprehensive spine care combining advanced expertise with personalized attention. As a board-certified spinal specialist in Los Angeles, Dr. Ranasinghe treats the full spectrum of cervical, thoracic, and lumbar spine conditions using both conservative and surgical approaches.
A spinal specialist is a physician with advanced training in diagnosing and treating conditions affecting the spine, spinal cord, and surrounding nerves. Unlike general practitioners or orthopedic surgeons who treat various conditions, spinal specialists focus exclusively on spine disorders, providing deeper expertise in complex spinal problems. Dr. Ranasinghe is board-certified by the American Board of Neurological Surgery with fellowship training in complex spine surgery. This specialized education ensures patients receive care from a true spinal specialist rather than a generalist who occasionally treats back problems. With over 20 years dedicated exclusively to spine conditions, Dr. Ranasinghe has treated thousands of Los Angeles patients with conditions ranging from herniated discs to complex spinal deformities.
Many patients find peace of mind knowing that an experienced specialist has carefully reviewed their case. A second opinion can uncover alternative treatments, prevent unnecessary procedures, and empower you to take control of your health.
Pain that travels from your neck into your shoulders and arms, or from your lower back down your legs, often indicates nerve compression requiring evaluation by a spinal specialist. This radiating pain, sometimes accompanied by numbness, tingling, or weakness, suggests that spinal structures are pressing on nerve roots. A spinal specialist can determine the exact location and cause of nerve compression through detailed examination and imaging review, then recommend appropriate treatment to relieve pressure and restore function.
Neurological symptoms like numbness in your hands or feet, progressive weakness making it difficult to grip objects or walk steadily, or coordination problems indicate potential spinal cord or nerve root compression. These symptoms require prompt evaluation by a spinal specialist because progressive nerve damage can become permanent if left untreated. Early intervention by a spinal specialist can prevent irreversible neurological deficits and improve outcomes significantly.
If you have tried conservative treatments like physical therapy, medications, and injections for 6-12 weeks without significant improvement, consulting a spinal specialist is appropriate. Persistent pain may indicate that the underlying cause has not been properly identified or that more advanced treatment approaches are needed. A spinal specialist can provide a comprehensive evaluation to uncover missed diagnoses and develop a more effective treatment plan tailored to your specific condition.
Being told you need spine surgery can feel overwhelming. Before proceeding with any surgical procedure, consulting a spinal specialist for a second opinion ensures you have explored all treatment options and confirms surgery is truly necessary. A spinal specialist can review your diagnosis, imaging studies, and previous treatments to determine if surgery is the best approach or if alternative treatments might be effective. This independent evaluation provides confidence in your treatment decisions.
A second opinion can be life-changing. Medical research shows:
of patients received a revised or more accurate diagnosis after seeking a second opinion.
of patients who sought a second opinion discovered that the initial surgeon had recommended the wrong surgery.
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.
Your first visit with our spinal specialist includes comprehensive review of medical history and symptoms, complete neurological examination, detailed imaging review (bring CDs of any MRI, CT, or X-rays), and thorough discussion of findings and diagnosis.
Dr. Ranasinghe explains your specific condition clearly, discusses all appropriate treatment options with pros and cons of each approach, provides realistic outcome expectations, and answers all questions thoroughly without rushing.
If treatment is needed, our spinal specialist coordinates all aspects including physical therapy referrals, scheduling of injections or procedures, pre-operative preparation for surgery if needed, and comprehensive post-treatment follow-up care.
Our spinal specialists are skilled in diagnosing and treating a wide variety of spine-related conditions. Whether you’re suffering from common issues like back pain, neck pain, or foot pain due to spine problems, or dealing with more complex conditions such as spinal cord compression, scoliosis, or spinal arthritis, we offer tailored treatment options. Our team is also experienced in managing conditions like brachial plexus injuries, spinal arteriovenous malformation (AVM), and spondylosis with spondylolisthesis, providing patients with relief and improved mobility.
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.
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:
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.
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.
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:
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.
