Working Together

Finding Solutions

Relieving Pain

The Ultimate Choice For Ultimate Spine Solutions^®

Explore Our Resources

Empowering Our Patients Through Shared Knowledge

Join The Conversation

#MyVSIVictoryStory

VSI (Virginia Spine Institute)

3 days ago

You work hard, stay active, and make healthy eating choices—sounds like the perfect formula for wellness, right? But what if skimping on sleep is holding you back? Poor sleep habits could be silently sabotaging your energy, performance, and overall health. In this Get Back to Your Life® episode, Dr. Thomas Nguyen, a leading expert in sleep science, reveals the crucial role sleep plays in recovery, longevity, and optimal well-being. Tune in to learn how better sleep can supercharge your health and help you reach your full potential!

Sleep is the foundation of our health, affecting everything from productivity to recovery and pain relief. But did you know that poor sleep can make you feel more pain? It’s true—sleep deprivation triggers inflammation, heightens sensitivity to aches and pains, and slows recovery. The good news? Small changes can make a big difference.

In this episode, Dr. Thomas Nguyen, Interventional Pain Specialist at VSI, reveals why your sleep hygiene and creating the ultimate sleep environment matter more than you think!

From hidden pain triggers in your sleep environment to simple tweaks that lead to better sleep, less pain, and even improved daily function, Dr. Nguyen shares which small upgrades can unearth big wins for your health.

- Does sleep really affect pain tolerance?
- When is it time for a new mattress or pillow?
- How many hours of sleep do you actually need?
- The one thing you can change tonight for better sleep

Tune in for Dr. Nguyen’s expert sleep strategies to help you wake up refreshed—not wrecked. You won’t want to SNOOZE on this episode!

🎧 Listen to this full episode on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/get-back-to-your-life/id1621538885?i=1000698558231
🎧 Listen to this full episode on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/22HAL65Z9xiOfcfbmOD3wj?si=e5effce0c63e4bce

🖥️ Learn more about Dr. Nguyen: https://www.spinemd.com/medical_team/dr-thomas-nguyen/
-------------------------
FOLLOW US on social media 👇
VSI Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vsi_spine/
Dr. Nguyen's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.t_nguyen/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@vsi_spine?lang=en

#Sleep #sleephygiene #bettersleep #sleephealth #sleeptips #sleepinstantly #fallasleep #sleepissues #SleepAwarenessWeek #healthysleep #sleepmatters #wellness #mentalhealth #selfcare

Sleep Like a Pro: Tips for a Healthier Life

31

VSI (Virginia Spine Institute)

4 weeks ago

Does your jaw ever pop, ache, or lock up? Do you wake up with headaches, ear pain, or even a sore neck? Maybe you’ve written it off to stress, poor posture, or a ‘bad night’s sleep.’ Perhaps you’ve tried mouthguards, painkillers, or that trending TikTok jaw-cracking trick—only to find that nothing works.

While this may have left you frustrated - you're not alone. Millions struggle with TMJ disorder, yet many don’t realize what’s truly causing their pain—or that real relief is possible. In this episode, VSI Regenerative Medicine Director Dr. Niteesh Bharara and VSI Physical Therapist Diego Herrera—experts in diagnosing and treating TMJ pain at its source—help us uncover the truth about this disorder and the nonsurgical solutions available - that many may not know about.

Key takeaways for TMJ sufferers:
0:00 - TMJ Disorder
4:50 - What Causes TMJ Disorder?
7:34 - Does Jaw Clicking Mean I have TMJ Disorder?
15:28 - Caroline's Journey with TMJ
34:48 - Physical Therapy for TMJ
38:43 - PRP for TMJ Disorder
43:38 - Can TMJ be cured?

PLUS, a TMJ recovery testimonial:
For VSI patient Caroline, TMJ pain dominated her life. Simple tasks like eating, speaking, and even sleeping became unbearable. The sharp, shooting pain episodes were relentless. She tried everything—mouthguards, Botox, anti-inflammatories, physical therapy, dry needling—but not one gave her lasting relief...Until she discovered a life-changing solution at VSI.

Now, Caroline is back to living the life she feared she’d lost forever. Her story is a testament to the fact that real relief is achievable—and you don’t have to suffer in silence.
Read more about Caroline's journey here: https://medium.com/@VSISpine/tmj-nightmares-a-journey-from-pain-to-healing-641f270027a1

This episode is essential listening if you want to overcome TMJ pain and reclaim your life!

🎧 Listen to this full episode on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify.

🖥️ Learn more about VSI's Physicians: https://www.spinemd.com/medical_team/

Follow us on social media 👇
VSI Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vsi_spine/
Dr. Bharara's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctor_bharara/

#TMJ #tmjdisorder #tmjtreatment #tmjrelief #lockjaw #jawpain #jawpainrelief #PRP #prpinjection #plateletrichplasma #painrelief #physicaltherapy #inspiringstories #inspiring

Unlocking Jaw Pain: TMJ Facts and Fixes | Episode 73

112

VSI (Virginia Spine Institute)

1 months ago

Understanding Flatback Syndrome: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Flatback syndrome is a complex spinal condition that can affect your posture, balance, and quality of life. In this video, Dr. Christopher Good, a renowned spine surgeon at VSI, provides a comprehensive breakdown of Flatback Syndrome—from its causes and symptoms to advanced treatment options.

Keep watching to learn:
- What is Flatback Syndrome? Understand how the loss of natural spinal curves affects posture and balance, leading to increased stress on muscles, bones, and joints.
- What Causes Flatback Syndrome? Learn about contributing factors like degenerative disc disease, spinal fusions, or the use of older surgical devices like Harrington rods.
- What are the Symptoms of Flatback Syndrome? Discover how chronic muscle fatigue, back pain, and difficulty standing upright can signal this condition.
- Treatment Options for Flatback Syndrome: Explore innovative surgical and non-surgical approaches, including minimally invasive techniques for realigning the spine and relieving nerve compression.
- If you’re experiencing symptoms like difficulty standing upright, back pain, or imbalance, this video offers valuable insights into potential solutions that can restore your quality of life.

For more information about flatback syndrome and spine health, visit us at https://www.vsispine.com

About Dr. Good:
Dr. Christopher Good is a double-board certified spine surgeon and a leader in innovative spine care. He has pioneered techniques in minimally invasive spine surgery using robotics and augmented reality (AR), improving outcomes for patients with complex spinal conditions like flatback syndrome. Dr. Good completed his medical degree at the University of Rochester School of Medicine, a residency at the Hospital for Special Surgery, and a spinal surgery fellowship at Washington University School of Medicine. He has been recognized as a Top Doctor by Washingtonian Magazine and Northern Virginia Magazine for over a decade.
Learn more about Dr. Good: https://www.spinemd.com/medical_team/dr-christopher-good/

📲 FOLLOW US on social media:
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@vsi_spine
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vsi_spine
Dr. Good’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.chris_good/

flatback syndrome symptoms, flatback syndrome surgery, spinal alignment, lordosis, kyphosis, spine deformity, spine fusion, degenerative disc disease, minimally invasive spine surgery, spine health, back pain treatment, spinal deformity surgery

#Flatbacksyndrome #spinecondition #spinehealth #spine #backpain #backpainrelief #spinealignment #spinalalignment #spinalfusion #spinalfusionsurgery #spinaldeformity #minimallyinvasivesurgery #spinesurgery #spinesurgeon

Flatback Syndrome Explained by a Spine Surgeon | VSI

223

VSI (Virginia Spine Institute)

1 months ago

Educators average about 12,000 steps per day, but what happens when you can’t stand for more than 10 minutes? Just ask Chris: a husband, dad, and school principal who spent years battling chronic back and leg pain, feeling like relief was out of reach.

From yoga mats to acupuncture, he tried everything. Tired of the “song and dance” of back pain dictating his job and life, Chris met @dr.colin_haines and discovered the life-changing solution of hybrid spine surgery (combination of spinal fusion and disc replacement).

🎙️Tune in to Get Back to Your Life® Podcast to hear Chris’ inspiring journey and learn about cutting-edge solutions that could transform your life, too.

#GetBackToYourLifePodcast #backpainrelief #chronicpain #spinesurgery #patientsuccess #zionnationalpark #educator #schoolprincipal #educatorhero #backpainsolution #artificialdiscreplacement #spinalfusionsurgery #hybridspinesurgery

Stepping Up to Back Pain: A Principal’s Recovery Story

57

VSI (Virginia Spine Institute)

2 months ago

Looking to improve your spine health in the new year? Dr. Mehta shares expert tips on how to maintain a healthy back and prevent pain in 2025. Whether you’re working from home, sitting at a desk all day, or simply want to adopt healthier habits, this video covers everything you need to know.

From anti-inflammatory foods like spinach, blueberries, and turmeric to essential tips for better sleep and ergonomic support, Dr. Mehta is perfect for people of all ages. Plus, learn three easy stretches to reduce back tension and improve flexibility.

Highlights:
0:00 - Introduction to back health tips
1:13 - Nutrition tips to fight inflammation
2:17 - Sleep habits that support recovery
2:50 - When to replace your mattress and pillows
3:44 - Quick stretches for a healthier spine

Whether you’re working from home, spending hours at a desk, or just looking to improve your overall health, these expert-backed strategies are perfect for back pain relief in all ages.

For more expert advice on spine health and wellness, visit: https://www.vsispine.com/

Follow us on social media 👇
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vsi_spine/
- Dr. Mehta's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.mehta_physiatrist/

Dr. Yash Mehta is board-certified in physical medicine and rehabilitation and received his medical degree at Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine. With 13 years of education, training, research, and medical experience, he completed residency at Sinai Hospital of Baltimore and an interventional spine and musculoskeletal medicine fellowship at Johns Hopkins Hospital, which ranks Top 5 in the nation. Dr. Mehta speaks fluent English, Gujarati, Hindi, and conversational Spanish. His expertise in holistic medicine has earned him features in Fox5 and ABC7.
To learn more about Dr. Mehta, visit: https://www.spinemd.com/medical_team/dr-yash-mehta/

#Newyear #Newyear2025 #2025goals #healthyback #newyearresolution #newyearsresolution #spinehealth #backhealth #backstretches #backstretching #winterarc #healthyhabits

Back Health Tips for 2025: Dr. Mehta on Fox5 DC | Healthy Habits for a Pain-Free Year

75

VSI (Virginia Spine Institute)

2 months ago

Travel & Back Pain: Amanda’s Journey to Recovery and Freedom 🌍

In this interview, we dive into the challenges of traveling and living with chronic back pain and how VSI patient Amanda transformed her struggles into an inspiring story of resilience and recovery. As a dedicated mom and avid traveler living in Europe, Amanda faced debilitating back and nerve pain that disrupted her family adventures, limited her mobility, and impacted her ability to enjoy everyday life.

After two unsuccessful spine surgeries abroad, Amanda continued to endure severe pain, and limited lifestyle. Determined to find a long-lasting solution to reclaim her active lifestyle, she connected with VSI Spine Surgeon, Dr. Colin Haines, who provided a cutting-edge spinal fusion surgery tailored to her specific situation. This life-changing procedure not only alleviated Amanda's pain but also restored her ability to travel and engage in the activities she loves.

Amanda’s inspiring journey showcases the transformative power of modern surgical techniques and the difference that personalized spine care makes. From riding camels in Morocco to exploring over 30 countries across Europe, Amanda has reclaimed her active lifestyle and continues to inspire others with her journey.

If you're searching for solutions to chronic back pain, Amanda's inspiring journey may be the story you need to take the next step toward recovery.
---------------

About Spine Surgeon Dr. Colin Haines:
Dr. Colin Haines is a board-certified spine surgeon and earned his medical degree at University of Buffalo, School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences. Dr. Haines completed his residency in orthopedic surgery at The George Washington University Hospital and a spine surgery fellowship at the renowned Cleveland Clinic. Dr. Haines performed the world’s first combined endoscopic and robot-guided spine surgery. His patient success has earned him national features on The Today Show, Buzzfeed, and Top Doctor recognition in consecutive years.
Learn more about Dr. Haines: https://www.spinemd.com/medical_team/dr-colin-haines/

Follow us on social media 👇
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vsi_spine/
Dr. Haines' Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.colin_haines/

#spinesurgery #spinalfusion #backpainrecovery #spinesurgeryrecovery #backpain #chronicbackpain #backpainrecovery #spinehealth #traveling #traveltips #traveleurope #failedspinesurgery #inspiringstories #inspiring

Traveling Without Back Pain | Patient Testimonial

42

VSI (Virginia Spine Institute)

2 months ago

In this special New Year’s episode, we explore the resolutions of doctors as they strive to prioritize health, happiness, and balance in 2025. From finding balance in their busy schedules to prioritizing health and happiness, these medical professionals share the small yet powerful changes they’re planning to make for a brighter year ahead. Whether seeking to improve your physical health, boost your well-being, or achieve more balance, their insights and strategies might inspire your best year yet. Tune in and get motivated to kick off 2025 with purpose!

Hear the doctors at VSI share small yet powerful changes they plan to make in 2025 - giving you a unique glimpse into how they plan to lead healthier, happier, and more balanced lives.

0:00 - Dr. Christopher Good | Prioritizing Meaningful Moments with Family

4:13 - Dr. Ehsan Jazini | Nurturing Wellness by Fighting Inflammation

9:53 - Dr. Niteesh Bharara | Expanding Horizons Through the Power of Reading

14:59 - Dr. William Kemp | Exploring the World While Cultivating Work-Life Harmony

18:00 - Dr. Yash Mehta | Taking Mindful Walks after Meals to Boost Health

21:59 - Dr. Thomas Nguyen | Transforming Rest into a Powerful Recharge

26:32 - Dr. Colin Haines | Unplugging to Reconnect: Embracing Life Beyond Screens

Listen to discover actionable wellness tips, hear inspiring stories, and learn how doctors lead by example to create a healthier future. They even reveal some of their most anticipated challenges with these resolutions and how they plan to set themselves up for success. Whether setting your resolutions or seeking motivation, this episode is packed with insights to kickstart your year.

🎧 Listen now on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify.
🖥️ Learn more about VSI's Physicians: https://www.spinemd.com/medical_team/
📲 Follow VSI on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vsi_spine/

Small Changes, Big Impact: Doctors' Resolutions for a Healthier 2025 I Episode 71

71

VSI (Virginia Spine Institute)

2 months ago

How VSI PT screens for Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis (AIS) and the ways we treat this condition

492

VSI (Virginia Spine Institute)

2 months ago

Stay safe during this snowstorm with expert advice from VSI Spine Surgeon Dr. Ehsan Jazini. In this video, learn essential tips to prevent back injuries and overexertion while shoveling snow. Dr. Jazini shares his winter storm advice with Fox5 DC—such as warming up, staying hydrated, and using the right shoveling technique—to protect your back and overall health.

Here are some things to remember as you shovel your driveway:
- Warm up and stretch for 10-15 minutes before shoveling
- Engage your core, bend at your hips/knees, and lift with your legs
- Choose a shovel that suits your height
- Take breaks and get help if at high risk of heart disease

Advice from a Spine Surgeon:
Shoveling snow is an often underestimated and strenuous activity—treat it like a workout! Follow these simple steps to stay injury-free and enjoy the snow safely.

🖥️ For more spine safety tips, visit: https://www.vsispine.com/

To learn more about Dr. Jazini, visit: https://www.spinemd.com/medical_team/dr-ehsan-jazini/

For more useful tips and resources - follow us on social media 👇
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vsi_spine/
Dr. Jazini's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr_jazini/

#snowshovelingtips #wintersafety #backinjuryprevention #snowsafety #shovelinginjury #snowshovelinginjury #safeshovelingtips #safesnowshovelingtips #winterbackpain #winterbackinjury #snowstormtips #winterstormtips #shovelingtechniques

How to Safely Shovel Snow and Avoid Injury I As Seen on Fox5 DC

127

Take the First Step to Relief

Schedule Consultation