chris and his sons on the mountain

From Back Pain to Snowboarding: Hybrid Spine Surgery Success

Chris came to spine surgeon Dr. Christopher Good in severe pain, eventually leading Chris to hybrid spine surgery, which is a type of surgery that combines spinal fusion and artificial disc replacement. Throughout his journey and recovery, his story is a true testament to his dedication and perseverance as a father. As an active person,…

teamwork, healthcare and doctors working on a surgery for medical treatment
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VSI Leads Groundbreaking National Study Showing Holistic Recovery Program Improves Spine Surgery Outcomes

Study of 50,000+ patients shows Enhanced Surgical Recovery protocol leads to faster healing, reduced opioid use, and fewer re-admissions after spinal fusion surgery RESTON, VIRGINIA, June 5, 2025 – Spine surgeons at VSI® have led one of the largest nationwide studies of its kind, revealing that a more comprehensive, patient-centered approach to spine surgery recovery…

a young woman lying on the sofa in the living room with migraine
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Strategies for Migraine Relief from a Neurologist

If you think migraines are just headaches, think again. In this episode of the Get Back to Your Life® podcast, neurologist Dr. Ella Akkerman breaks down the debilitating nature of migraines and why it’s time we take them seriously. “Migraines are not just bad headaches. They’re disabling, life-changing. And so do not sit in silence…

closeup hands of woman touching her back pain in nature background

Reducing Back Pain During Perimenopause

Perimenopause isn’t just hot flashes and mood swings. Much how your period can cause back pain, fluctuating hormones can cause aches and even migraines. Declining estrogen affects bones, discs, muscles, and even how the brain processes pain, making back pain and neck pain more common and often more intense. At VSI, our specialists translate cutting-edge…

best of virginia 2025
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VSI Named 2025 Best Orthopedic and PT Practice

VSI, the premier spine center Virginia trusts for comprehensive spinal and orthopedic health, is proud to announce it has been named Best Orthopedic Practice and Best Physical Therapy Practice in Virginia Living magazine’s 2025 Best of Virginia Awards. This honor reflects VSI’s leadership in advanced orthopedic spine care and rehabilitative therapy, benefiting patients across the…

close up of depressed man in pain
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When Stress Literally Hurts: The Mind-Body Connection

In this special Mental Health Awareness Month episode of the VSI Get Back to Your Life® podcast, two VSI physicians share a compelling discussion on the deep connection between emotional well-being and physical pain. Dr. Ella Akkerman, a neurologist at VSI, brings her expertise in the brain and mental health to this conversation while Dr….