Pain experiences reviews

Overall, I had a great experience. Dr. Bhalla is an excellent and caring physician who patiently listened to my concerns about my lower back pain and recommended the solution. The office staff were also very friendly and helpful.

Amandeep Bhalla, MD

Dr Amerdeep was very friendly and looked at MRI and X-rays of spline and hip explained clearly the causes of pain. Office staff were also very cordial. R. Nomula

Amandeep Bhalla, MD

After years of debilitating hip pain I decided to have an anterior MAKO robotic-arm-assisted total hip replacement with Dr P. Ramkumar. The procedure was minimally invasive so the recovery time was only weeks. Within 6 weeks I was walking & hiking all over London without any pain or discomfort. I’d recommend this procedure for anyone with chronic hip pain as it gave me back my mobility lost over time and as promised, NO PAIN!

Prem N. Ramkumar, MD, MBA

I could not have asked for better care from Dr Bae and his staff. Traveling from out of state to see you was the best decision I made. I could hardly walk when I came in to see Dr. Bae. He did my spinal surgery and I feel like a different person I can walk without pain.!!

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Hyun Bae, MD

Dr. Ramkumar is an excellent and highly knowledgeable physician! I came to him after spending 6 months at physical therapy working on my lower back pain with no relief. After just one visit with the doctor, he immediately diagnosed me with hip impingement (it wasn't even my back after all this time spent at PT!). He reviewed all treatment options, and I made the decision to proceed with conservative management. My physical therapists began to focus on hip exercises and within just a few months, all of my pain subsided. I am so grateful for Dr. Ramkumar for his knowledge, patience, and dedication to the field of Orthopedics!

Prem N. Ramkumar, MD, MBA

First and foremost I would like to give a huge thanks to Dr. Prem N. Ramkumar for the successful operation on my knee (3 procedures in 1 operation; reconstruction of the ACL, L.E.T. procedure and meniscus repair). Starting from the initial visits til the final follow up, he made me feel comfortable and welcomed. Dr. Ramkumar presents himself confidently as the discussions with him were very thorough and the explanations were clear whenever I had questions for him, from that I built an immediate trust and confidence that I was going to be in good hands. His PostOp Protocol is explained in detail and critical to follow. I was a bit fearful of beginning to train on bending the knee, as instructed, because of the pain just days after surgery, but he gave me a piece of mind and reassured that it is part of the process. With discipline and determination I progressed positively well during my rehab. Again thank you Dr. Ramkumar for your expertise and critical services on bringing me back to the field and enjoying the sport that I love, soccer.

Prem N. Ramkumar, MD, MBA

He made me feel so comfortable about getting 2 surgeries that I was so spooked about getting, but after talking with Dr Bae, I’m actually a bit excited about the whole thing. I’m looking forward to a life without pain. My husband’s getting surgery as well and feels much more comfortable about this experience

Hyun Bae, MD

I am a new/current patient of Dr. Ramkumar. First, I’d like to commend the office and medical staff I have worked with to date. All have been efficient, professional, accessible and friendly. As for Dr. Ramkumar, he also displays all those traits. In my research I have received consistently positive opinions regarding his skill level and pre/post care. In addition, I was pleased to note that his treatment options for me were not limited to mandatory surgery. He was open to exploring additional strategies (non-surgical) that worked best with my condition and life situation. I appreciated knowing all my choices and their impact on my wellbeing. I look forward to my continued care with Dr. Ramkumar. HIP REPLACEMENT UPDATE: Today is week 12 since my surgery! I am thrilled to say that I am now able to do so many activities from my long-ago-pain-free-lifestyle. I had major limitations the past few years. All my decisions were based on how much walking, how long sitting, available parking options, walking-cane accessibility as well as energy endurance. I had to curtail my dancing and exercise classes as well modify my home and social activities to accommodate these limitations. Now, I have resumed most of my activities. I can walk, shop, exercise, garden and salsa. (Zumba is my ultimate goal!) I no longer have to strategize - I just say Yes and Go! I have grown to appreciate Dr. Ramkumar more and more each step of my procedure and ongoing recovery. He is always available, consistently proactive, approachable and empathetic. He, as well as his AMAZING team, have stood beside me through this entire process and I’m confident they will continue to do so. I feel secure to be honest and know that all of them will take my concerns seriously and treat me respectfully. Dr. Ramkumar, Ishan, Margo and Stephanie are the best team. My sincere thanks to them.

Prem N. Ramkumar, MD, MBA

I am writing to express my sincere gratitude for the life-changing surgery you performed on June 17, 2025. As you know, I had emergency laminectomy surgery on May 30, 2024, in Wisconsin, which left me with significant numbness in both legs, limited toe mobility, and intense pain from my hip to my left knee. A specialist in California informed me that these issues could become permanent if they persisted for six months after the surgery. I suffered with this condition for a year, and it took me four months to even begin walking without assistance of a walker o cane after the surgery in Wisconsin. When I came to see you in Santa Monica in April 2025, you offered hope that you could correct my desperate pain and numbness. The results of the spinal surgery you performed on vertebrae 3, 4, and 5, where you also placed two screws in vertebrae 3 and 4, have been nothing short of incredible. Just ten days after surgery, I was able to walk without the help of a walker or cane. Now, two and a half months post-surgery, the improvement is profound. I can walk for up to an hour without any leg pain, and I experience only minimal discomfort in my lower back. I went from being unable to walk for more than eight minutes due to unbearable pain (level 8) to being able to walk for an hour without problems. Dr. Bae, your professionalism and that of your staff are truly extraordinary. I feel blessed that you performed my surgery and have changed my life from one of frustration and pain to one without pain at all. Thank you for everything. God bless your heart.

Hyun Bae, MD

If all doctors were like Dr. Garabekyan, the world would be a better place. My husband and I moved from Idaho for me to get treatment with Dr. G for my bilateral hip dysplasia and labral tears (scope + PAO), and we are certain that we could not have picked a better surgeon. He has completely redefined my outlook on healthcare; I never knew doctors could be this patient, involved, compassionate, and genuine. He is clearly an expert in his field and has been meticulous at every step of my care from pre- to post-surgery, always taking the time to explain, answer questions, and go the extra mile to ensure I feel listened to and supported. I have never once felt rushed or overlooked by Dr. G, and I know my family would wholeheartedly say the same. Surgery can be really scary to consider, but Dr. G will absolutely do his due diligence and more to make you feel supported and confident throughout the recovery journey. Despite being less than 3 weeks post-RPAO and 4 weeks post-arthroscopy, I am already so ecstatic about my progress and I can’t thank Dr. G enough for giving me a new lease on life towards a healthier and pain-free future. I also want to give my kudos to Schevonne, who is Dr. G’s right hand and assistant. She is so kind, responsive, and is incredible at staying on top of everything. She made all the technical and clerical parts of getting ready for surgery a breeze for me, and it made things so much less stressful, especially when dealing with insurance and needing to temporarily put life on pause. Schevonne’s absolutely been the cherry on top for my experience with Dr. G and Commons Clinic, and I really appreciate how invested she’s been in my ongoing care.

Tigran Garabekyan, MD

When I arrived for my first appointment I entered the front desk area, it was evident that everyone and everything was well organized. I arrived early, as I am a new patient, and provided notes and images of recent MRIs and CT scan. The front desk staff was professional and personable. Before my appointment time, the X-ray technician came for me to take a routine spine image. He has a great sense of humor, and quickly completed the X-ray. He also escorted me to the patient room. The Doctor's assistant arrived almost immediately and asked some routine questions regarding my current symptoms and pain level. Dr. Khurana arrived at about 5 minutes after my scheduled time. We discussed my past history, and he reviewed the recent MRI and CT images I had provided. He offered a surgical solution and discussed/explained how it would be accomplished while showing me on the images what would be done. I was treated with the utmost courtesy and respect by everyone. I thank everyone associated with my appointment for making this first visit a pleasure. Revision L5-S1, posterior decompression and extension of fusion to pelvis was scheduled for August 5, 2024. When I arrived for surgery, it was clear that the admitting staff was well organized and professional. There was a sense of calm which reduced any anxiety I had. I was escorted to my room in a timely manner by one of the nurses. Almost as soon as I had changed into a hospital gown, Dr. Khurana and the Anesthesiologist came in to discuss the procedure, medications, expectations, etc. I was treated with the utmost respect as we discussed the medications to which I am allergic or highly sensitive. In short, I cannot take narcotics or opiods for pain, which was a challenge for the medical team. However, my requests were honored, and I did very well. In addition, two of my best friends "stood in" for my family who were unavailable. They were treated with the highest regard and were updated on my condition as though they were my family. I was released to go home the afternoon of August 6 with routine post-op instructions. My post-op appointment with Dr. Khurana was September 20, 2024. I am making good progress, and I am very thankful for Dr. Khurana's expertise and willingness to address my spine issues. The entire staff at DOCS Surgical Hospital is exceptional!! The nurses were quickly available when needed, but did not "hover". Without exception, this was the best surgical experience of my life, and this was the 7th on my spine.

Sanjay Khurana, MD

My partial knee replacement with Dr. Prem Ramkumar was a great experience. The entire team was exceptional from the initial consultation to post-op care. Call back questions were taken care of in a timely manner. I had no bruising, I’m 4 weeks post-op and walking without a walker or cane. I no longer have knee pain and started walking around my neighborhood. I’m extremely happy and would recommend Dr. Ramkumar.

Prem N. Ramkumar, MD, MBA

Dr Sanjay Khurana is an amazing spine surgeon. He did my lower lumbar spinal fusion surgery 7 weeks ago and I am very happy with the results. It has been a true pleasure having Dr Khurana as my surgeon. He is so talented, kind, smart, and professional. A real class act! UPDATE: Just recently on August 14 of 2025, it was one year since my back surgery with Dr. Khurana. I feel amazing! I’ve been going on 7 mile hikes with steep inclines in the mountains for the last three months. With no discomfort or pain whatsoever. I’m training and working out like I always did. Every day I’m grateful for how successful this surgery has been for me. And that’s why I came on here to add to my review. I followed all my preop and postop protocol precisely. I do eat super healthy and I know that helped my body heal well. I also started walking regularly as soon as I could following my surgery. I’m forever grateful to Dr. Khurana. He literally changed my life! I’m so happy! 🙏🏼

Sanjay Khurana, MD

I’m so incredibly grateful that doctors like Ramkumar exist, someone who took the time to look over my dad’s unique case. My dad’s hip replacement only two weeks post op has already changed his life. Seeing him in pain for the past 4 years has been incredibly heartbreaking and seeing how much his quality of life has improved is such little time is something I’ll forever thank Dr. Ramkumar and is team for

Prem N. Ramkumar, MD, MBA

I consider myself extremely fortunate to have had my total hip replacement performed by Dr. Ramkumar. Several physicians disregarded my concerns for nine months before I was referred to Dr. Ramkumar. Following our initial consultation, during which he thoroughly explained my condition and addressed all my questions, my surgery was scheduled. The surgery was a complete success even after encountering some complications. I feel this is because Dr. Ramkumar is an extremely caring, qualified, and gifted surgeon, and his surgery team is the best. I have not had any pain since the surgery and after 2 months I have been able to resume all my regular activities. Thank you Dr. Ramkumar.

Prem N. Ramkumar, MD, MBA

I met Dr Ortega a little over a year ago on my first appointment and afterwards I went down to my car and cried. Finally, I had hope that I could get my life back! I was so grateful that finally I was referred to a doctor that knew and understood everything I have been experiencing since 2017. Dr Ortega was very thorough in explaining the Cervical Radiculopathy ACDF procedure. I wanted to wait a year before writing this review and I have to tell you that it’s so wonderful to be able to sleep and to wake up and not have the constant pain and weakness in my neck and on my right arm and shoulder. The surgery and care afterwards was exceptional without any problems. Physical therapy in the same office was better than I have experienced elsewhere. They helped me get my strength back with stretches and exercises to maintain the muscle strength. Thank you Dr Ortega for truly giving me back my life!

Brandon A. Ortega, MD

I had my second hip arthroscopy with Dr. Ramkumar in April 2025 for cam impingement and a labral tear - and I can genuinely say this experience changed my life. Having already gone through one hip, I knew what recovery could be like, but the second time with Dr. Ramkumar’s approach felt smoother, more focused, and incredibly effective. His knowledge, precision, and support before and after surgery made a huge difference. As of today, just a few months post-op, I’m walking 20,000 steps a day, pain-free - and I’m regularly doing 250 lb squats at the gym. My strength, mobility, and overall quality of life are better than they’ve been in years. If you’re considering hip arthroscopy - especially for bilateral or repeat procedures - you’re in the best hands with Dr. Ramkumar. I can’t thank him enough.

Prem N. Ramkumar, MD, MBA

I highly recommend Dr. Prem Ramkumar for a direct anterior (not posterior) total hip arthroplasty with robotic assistance. My left hip surgery was extremely successful and I was up walking the same day as the surgery and slowly progressed to walking unassisted 1-2 miles daily outside my home in just the first two weeks. Plus, much to my surprise, Dr. Ramkumar visited me in my hospital room in the evening no doubt after a very long day of multiple surgeries to check in and see how I was doing. Additionally, there were no complications during the surgery or during recovery! I especially appreciated his excellent information on pre and post surgery exercises to help with the recovery process along with a detailed daily pain medication schedule for the first week post surgery. Dr. Ramkumar is highly educated and very knowledgeable about both hips and knees and truly accomplished as an orthopedic specialist surgeon in these areas. Dr. Ramkumar is competent, capable, caring, personable, has a good sense of humor, is willing to listen and answer my endless questions, and I believe he truly tries to find the optimal solutions for his patients. If you're looking for a surgeon to perform a direct anterior total hip replacement then make an appointment with Dr. Ramkumar. You will be glad you did!

Prem N. Ramkumar, MD, MBA

Dr Ramkumar did a great job had to get an acl reconstruction and meniscus repair and a couple of months later i was back to doing martial arts now almost 8 months later i have no pain and no problem doing any daily activities so for anyone looking for a good orthopedic knee surgeon dr ramkumar is the man

Prem N. Ramkumar, MD, MBA

I am 74 year old. For a long time I had severe pain in right hip and leg due to the pinching of the sciatic nerve between 4 and 5 vertebrae of the spine. Physiotherapy and multiple pain relief injections did not help me. On the advice of doctors Zalkinder and Kievsky I contacted with doctor Leonel Hunt for concultation. Doctor Hunt explained to me in great detail how the surgery would be performed to free the nerve from the pinching. On July 18th this year doctor Hunt did surgery of LUMBAR LAMINOTOMY/FORAMINOTOMY, after which pains in my right hip and leg disappeared. Now I can walk freely, do housework, I will be able to walk with my dog after full recovery and look to the future with optimism and hope.I thank doctor Leonel Hunt from my heart. I wish him success in his work and advise everyone who has problems with spine to contact him for help. I'm saying it again thank so much.

Leonel Hunt, MD

Dr Prem Ramkumar and his Physical Therapists Mina and his team provided me with excellent care. I remember feeling nervous, anxious and scared. Dr Ramkumar and his Physical therapy team all gave me comfort and hope and assurance from the first consultation. Dr Ramkumar made sure I received my pain medication once I had run out. He personally contacted me to make sure. It’s not every day that a medical professional who does what Dr did for me. Dr Ramkumar and his PT team instilled in me the confidence I needed from the beginning made the entire process much easier for me. I’m truly grateful for not only having a successful ACL/ Meniscus knee repair surgery but for the peace of mind that they all provided me throughout the process. Every step of the way , Dr Ramkumar and Mina Physical Therapist and his team were there for me offering reassurance and clarity ensuring that I was not just another patient but a valued individual and deserving of the best care. Their commitment to excellence and patient care is truly remarkable. I’m blessed to have had Dr Ramkumar as my surgeon and also Blessed to have had Mina as my Physical Therapist along with his amazing team . You all made the difference in my healing journey . With deepest gratitude to them all. I strongly recommend Long Beach Lakewood Orthopedic Institute. Dr Ramkumar and the Physical Therapy team.. Veronica

Prem N. Ramkumar, MD, MBA

I came in with pretty bad neck and shoulder pain and the doctor was able to diagnose me correctly after running a few tests gave me some medication and some shots and I felt so much better would highly recommend

Evish Kamrava, MD

Exceptional surgeon — and someone I trust without hesitation, both professionally and personally. I’ve seen his work firsthand over multiple years, and his technical skill is truly unmatched. He treated my own sister for a labral tear with arthroscopic hip surgery — she was back to playing hockey with zero pain. That kind of precision, care, and outcome is rare. Salute to Dr. Ramkumar.

Prem N. Ramkumar, MD, MBA

Courteous front office staff. Minimal wait. Post op X-ray done, friendly X-ray tech. PA saw me first, did not rush and answered all my questions. (PA Bri has been very responsive via email in the interim before this latest appt). MD saw me next, did not rush and answered remaining questions. Back office staff will handle my work leave and EDD and PT prescription. Best of all, the unrelenting sciatica pain for the past 6 mos is gone. I did not wait to do the procedure, though I didn’t want to do it, and I think that made the difference for a good outcome. I have diminishing post op pain and increase in activity (6 weeks post op) as the weeks go on. Very relieved this is over and grateful for the good results.

Sanjay Khurana, MD