Interest in weightlifting and bodybuilding has skyrocketed in recent years. However, in a world where strength training has immense benefits, the fear of injury often looms large. Nearly a third of people who lift weights say they had an injury in the last 6 months; and many shy away from seeking treatment for spine issues, fearing they'll be sidelined forever. But one patient is here to dispel that myth. Join us in this episode as we delve into the journey of a former competitive weightlifter and CrossFit owner who refused to let spine surgery dictate his fate. From a debilitating back injury to undergoing disc replacement and spinal fusion surgery, he not only reclaimed his strength but returned to the gym with a newfound determination. Tune in as we explore the possibility of bouncing back to weightlifting after spine surgery. Learn more about VSI at VSISpine.com

Discover crucial insights and candid regrets from a seasoned doctor's perspective on knee surgery. Long before becoming a doctor, Dr. Bharara was a patient himself, and his own experience undergoing two knee surgeries sparked a revelation – and some regrets. And he says, if he knew then what he knows now, he would never have chosen to have the knee surgeries. He openly admits that armed with his present knowledge, he would have opted out of the procedures altogether. Join us for an enlightening dialogue with Dr. Bharara, a regionally-recognized Nonsurgical Sports Medicine Doctor and the Director of Regenerative Medicine at VSI. He shares eye-opening insights into modern alternatives to knee surgery. His expertise offers invaluable guidance for those seeking to reassess their pain solutions, favoring natural healing methods and alleviation over invasive procedures. Whether you're contemplating surgery yourself or simply curious about the evolving landscape of orthopedic care, this podcast promises to enlighten and provoke thought, offering a fresh perspective on a topic that affects millions worldwide. Learn more about VSI at VSISpine.com

What's in a name for medical practices? Turns out, there’s a lot. Their name, their brand, their tagline - and it all reflects the doctors, the treatment, and the approach that surgeons take in providing care. That means it's critically important for patients, too. In this episode we’re talking with Doctor Christopher Good, a spine surgeon and the CEO and President of VSI, about the what and the why behind revitalizing a major medical center like his VSI. It’s the ultimate Victory Story - launching a new chapter of VSI serving and supporting its incredible patients with the ultimate in spine solutions. Learn more about VSI at SpineMD.com.

In this episode - we sharing a powerful love story…not the kind that focuses on first dates, first kisses or over-the-top marriage proposals. We’re talking about partners in pain - and how you help the one you love when debilitating back pain takes over their life. 80% of Americans experience back pain at some point in their life so that’s a lot of partners impacted too. How do you love someone through that? An inspiring couple is here today to talk about how they did it and the lessons that helped them get through it and finally get to a pain free place in their lives. Learn more about VSI at SpineMD.com

Data shows that about half of adults in the US (49.1%) are trying to lose weight in any given year, and anybody who has tried it knows - it is not easy. But it’s not impossible and in this episode we’ve got a doctor with a personal story to prove it. Spine Surgeon Ehsan Jazini was inspired to improve his own health last year. He successfully lost 30 pounds and he’s here to talk not only about how he did it - but how he helps patients when they want to do it too. Learn more about VSI at SpineMD.com

It seems every time we turn around there's a new tool or technique to help you recover from an injury or spine surgery. There are tons of gadgets out there to help you - from massage guns to compression boots, therapy machines or recovery pants - not to mention all the cardio and weight equipment you can use to get strong and flexible and back on the move. But….is it possible for people to overdo it with all this stuff? What do we need to think about in terms of our recovery… and are there any signs that what we are doing isn't helping at all? Spine-specializd physical therapist Justin Geisler from VSI Physical Therapy helps people answer this question every day and here, in this episode, to do that for all of us. Learn more about VSI at SpineMD.com.

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

Today we’re busting a big and long-held myth - that all surgeons just want to do surgery. The truth is, there are so many modern spine treatments and procedures out there that patients and their doctors have a lot of options to treat pain and injury - not just surgical but non-surgical ones too. A modern approach for patients involves finding a surgeon invested in your recovery, not a particular procedure. What does that look like and how do you find a doctor like that? We talk about it in this episode with a patient who worked long and hard to figure it out himself and has tips to share with others looking to do the same. Learn more about VSI at 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.

Who do you lean on when you’re in pain? For many, it’s family but there’s no question that friends are an enormous source of support when life gets hard, you injure yourself and are hurting too. In this episode, we have an extraordinary story of two friends who had each other’s back in a big way. By leaning on each other, both found help for excruciating neck issues and they’ve got tips for others on how you can avoid facing pain alone. Learn more about VSI at SpineMD.com.

With nearly 25 million enthusiasts hitting the greens every year, golf is undoubtedly a beloved sport. However, as with any physical activity, it comes with its fair share of potential pains and injuries. Join us in this episode as we sit down with the renowned "Golf Doctor" himself, Pain Specialist Dr. Thomas Nguyen. Not only does he treat competitive golfers and weekend warriors, but he's also a passionate golfer who has personally conquered the physical challenges of the game. With his wealth of experience, Dr. Nguyen is here to share invaluable tips and tricks to help keep you pain-free and maximize your time on the golf course. For an in-depth exploration of these invaluable insights and to enjoy your golf game to the fullest, tune in to this episode. Learn more by visiting: SpineMD.com.

If you’ve passed by a pickleball court recently, you are well aware of the popularity of the fastest-growing sport in the US - and the pain that often comes with it. Why are so many people getting hurt and what can you do about it? Dr. Colin Haines - a spine surgeon at Virginia Spine Institute, and a pickleball player himself, is serving up answers. He’s got plentiful tips to keep you from getting paddled by your pickleball game including: - What to wear to minimize pain - How to stretch the right way for this sport - The safest way to start a game - And the smartest way to cool down Learn more about VSI at SpineMD.com

Discovering that you require back surgery can be an overwhelming experience, triggering concerns and leaving patients uncertain about the most suitable procedure. Join Dr. Christopher Good, an esteemed Spine Surgeon at Virginia Spine Institute, as he unravels the contrasting aspects of two common approaches: traditional spinal fusion and motion preservation procedure (disc replacement). This enlightening podcast equips you with the knowledge to navigate the complexities of modern medicine, empowering you to make informed decisions that will pave the way for your swift return to a fulfilling life. Learn more about VSI at SpineMD.com