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….

support and doctor for empathy after failed surgery
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Causes and Solutions for Unresolved Pain After Spine Surgery

Still in pain after spine surgery? You’re not alone. And more importantly, you’re not out of options. If your surgical procedure didn’t align with your expectations and deliver the relief you were looking for, or your symptoms have returned, it may have left you feeling frustrated about where to turn next. In the latest episode…

woman giving thumbs up in a hospital bed
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Medical Gaslighting: A Woman’s Fight to Be Heard and Treated for Her Pain

May is Women’s Health Month, a time to raise awareness about women’s health issues and celebrate the strength and resilience of women. There isn’t a better example of this strength than the story of a VSI patient named Jakki.  Jakki came to Dr. Haines after desperately searching for 20+ years to understand what was causing…

rear view of asian man suffering from lower back pain
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Resolving Back Pain: Quick Fixes vs. Lasting Relief

Lower back pain is something most of us encounter at some point, and unfortunately, many of us find ourselves trapped in an endless loop of temporary fixes. From massage and muscle relaxants to acupuncture and chiropractic adjustments, the options seem endless. But do these treatments truly offer lasting relief? In this episode of the Get…

doctor sitting in a podcast
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Sleep Like a Pro: Small Changes for a Healthier Life

Sleep plays a crucial role in our overall health, yet millions of people struggle with getting enough rest each night. In fact, studies show that one in three adults don’t get enough sleep, and nearly 70 million Americans suffer from chronic sleep disorders. To help you understand the connection between sleep and health, Dr. Thomas…

Man referencing his jaw while another man looks on.
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Unlocking Jaw Pain: TMJ Facts and Fixes

Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ) affects millions of people, often without them realizing the root cause of their discomfort. From jaw clicking to headaches, earaches, and even neck pain, TMJ disorder can impact daily life in unexpected ways. But what if relief was possible? In this episode of Get Back to Your Life®, VSI Regenerative Medicine…

chris cline hiking
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Disc Replacement & Fusion: The Ultimate Back Pain Solution

Half of the global workforce spends at least 75% of their time standing. This includes professions like educators, hospitality workers, first responders, and military personnel. For people like Chris, a middle school principal, this reality can lead to debilitating back pain, especially given the high activity levels required in his profession. Finding Back Pain Relief…

doctor podcast collage
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Small Changes, Big Impact: Doctors’ Resolutions for a Healthier 2025

As the New Year unfolds, it’s a time for fresh starts, inspired goals, and renewed focus. Doctors, just like the rest of us, strive to better their lives and find harmony in their demanding schedules. In this special New Year’s podcast episode, we explore how spine surgeons and specialists from VSI are embracing resolutions to…

aaron harper cycling with circle image of his military photo
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Healing Our Heroes: A Veteran’s Victory Over Back Pain

As we honor veterans and our nation’s heroes on Veterans Day, we must recognize that their bravery often comes with a cost—severe and debilitating pain. For those suffering from chronic back pain due to the physical demands of a military career or service-related injuries, is there hope for resolution? Dr. Jazini’s patient, Aaron Harper, emphatically…