They say sitting is the new smoking, which might explain the enormous growth and popularity of walking pads or walking desks. Are they the key to solving the problem of our sedentary lives or are there risks to consider? We’re walking and talking about it with VSI Spine Surgeon Ehsan Jazini in this episode. 

Learn more about VSI at SpineMD.com

In this episode, we’re busting a common myth — the idea that all surgeons are quick to jump to surgery as the only solution. The truth is, with the advancement of modern spine care, there are a variety of treatment options available today that don’t always require surgery. From non-invasive therapies to cutting-edge procedures, patients now have a wide range of choices to treat pain and injury.

A more patient-centered approach to spine care involves finding a surgeon who’s genuinely invested in your recovery, not just in performing a procedure. But how do you know if a doctor is truly focused on your overall well-being? In today’s episode, we’re talking to Chris, a VSI patient who was determined to find a doctor who would consider all options — someone who could perform surgery if needed but wouldn’t immediately recommend it as the first step.

Chris shares his personal journey of finding a spine surgeon who prioritized his long-term recovery over a quick fix, and how others can do the same. If you’ve ever wondered if choosing a surgeon means automatically signing up for surgery, you’ll want to hear this episode.

We’ll also explore why data shows that 90% of VSI patients are treated successfully without surgery, and how patients can make informed decisions when it comes to their spine health. Tune in to learn how to find a doctor who’s right for you, whether surgery is part of the plan or not. For more information about VSI, visit SpineMD.com

 

 

 

It’s never easy when you experience pain, but there’s no question it’s more difficult than ever when doctors can’t figure out the cause. When that happens, you need a doctor detective - one who is willing to take the time to help you figure out what’s going on and most importantly - what to do about it. 

We’re talking in this episode about medical mysteries - what it looked like for one young woman with pain so bad she had to drop out of school, how she found her way to help and how others can too - especially when answers seem difficult or impossible to come by.

Anna Greer and Dr. Niteesh Bharara, Director of Regenerative Medicine at VSI have tips and an important reminder for patients to never give up hope in your search for answers and a pain-free life. 

Learn more about VSI at SpineMD.com

A love of basketball runs deep. Once you’ve played the game, it’s hard to give it up. That’s why so many adults are part of recreational basketball leagues - long after they’ve stopped competing as student athletes.

But injuries abound because this fast-moving game is competitive - especially as we get older. What do you need to know to keep up and stay injury free and in the game?

In this episode we’re talking about it with Dr. Niteesh Bharara, an orthopedic specialist and non-surgical sports medicine doctor who’s been part of his own basketball league for years…and has treated a fair number of his teammates for various injuries. 

Learn more about VSI at SpineMD.com.

Many people have preconceived notions about spinal fusion surgery. Maybe you remember your parents or grandparents having one. If so - you likely think of an open-back surgery with a long recovery time, a lot of pain and restricted movement. 

But that was then and this is now. In today’s era of modern back surgery, advanced technology makes minimally invasive surgeries possible. That translates to reduced recovery time, less pain and more movement.

But what does that look like in real life? Today we’re talking about it with a patient for an honest, unvarnished look at life after spinal fusion. 

Learn more about VSI at SpineMD.com

Three quarters of parents say they spend too little time with their kids. These days, many families are looking for solutions, and Dr. Christopher Good says he has a great one that’s working for his family. Dr. Good is a spine surgeon. He is president and CEO of Virginia Spine Institute in Reston, Virginia, and he is a father of three.

A year ago, he and his wife set a goal for their family, and that was to spend more time together and to focus on individual and collective goals. They called their effort G 5. He's here to talk about it what it entails and the difference it’s making for his family in the hopes of inspiring you as you set your family’s wellness and health goals. 

Learn more about VSI at SpineMD.com

Cheerleading is an incredible popular sport, with more than 3 million involved across the US. These are serious athletes who can develop very serious injuries, especially along and around the spine.

So we are talking in this episode with Dr. Colin Haines from Virginia Spine Institute about how he helps competitive cheerleaders deal with back and neck pain and injuries.

We’re also talking with cheerleader Maggie Lang and her mother about how pain sidelined her as an athlete and what helped her get back in the game. 

Learn more about VSI at SpineMD.com

Eighty percent of Americans will experience back pain at some point in their life so we shouldn’t be surprised that it’s a common reason adults call out sick to work.

Whether your job is a physical one that keeps you on your feet all day long or you’re moving and carrying heavy things or you’re a desk warrior who sits for 8 hours a day - back pain can definitely get in the way of work.

It did for today’s guest whose work is unique. But her story about pushing past the pain and addressing it once and for all is universal - and a real inspiration to anyone looking to get back to doing the work they love.

Learn more about VSI at SpineMD.com

Join us for an enlightening discussion about the benefits that yoga has on our mental and physical well-being - spine health included! 

While yoga is commonly known for its ability to soothe anxiety and tension within in the body, its trememdous physical benefits also help to create a foundation within our bodies which supports a healthy spine in return.

Spine surgeon Dr. Ehsan Jazini is one of the many devoted to the practice of yoga, and he is an enormous believer in its power to strengthen and heal - before and after surgery and when possible, to help patients avoid surgery altogether. He practices yoga himself and recommends it to patients all the time. 

So, what yoga types are best for back pain and how can yoga help you get back to doing what you love if you’ve experienced pain or muscle loss? Dr. Jazini’s got those answers and more - plus he shares the many ways his personal practice of yoga helps him physically, mentally and as a surgeon. 

Learn more about VSI at SpineMD.com

 

 

 

 

 

It’s Back to School Time - but we’re switching it up in this episode and focusing on all the adults out there who are moving grown kids into college or new apartments or houses.   Everyone thinks about the emotional aspects of these moves but we want to talk about their physical impacts.   We have a true move-in expert in this episode - pain specialist Dr. Thomas Nguyen of the Virginia Spine Institute. He’s also a father of 3 who’s done 12 injury-free move-ins with his kids in recent years - and he’s not done yet.   Listen, learn lots of tips, and save your back this back to school season.    

Learn more about VSI at SpineMD.com.