Why Backpack Weight Matters for Kids’ Spine Health No matter how expensive or well-designed the backpack is, carrying a heavy load repeatedly every day could very well be putting your child’s spine health at risk. If you’ve noticed your child struggling to put on or take off their backpack before, it’s probably too heavy! As…
Migraines are the sixth most disabling illness worldwide, affecting nearly 40 million Americans and one in four households. While migraines can strike in any season, summer brings its own surge in cases. In fact, one study found that for every 10°F increase in temperature, migraine likeliness rose by 6%. So why does heat make migraines…
This is Men’s Health Week and for many men, golf is more than a hobby. It’s a passion, a challenge, and a vital part of staying active and connected. But when back or neck pain creeps in, it can turn every swing into a struggle and every round into a risk. For Cade, an avid…
When you think of the summer time, back pain may not be the first thing that comes to mind. Yet for many people, hot weather can make existing pain worse, or even trigger new flare-ups. Extreme heat, dehydration, and lifestyle changes during the summer months all play a role in your risk for back pain…
Golf is more than a game; it’s a lifestyle. But for many middle-aged men, golf injuries like low back pain, golfer’s elbow, and rotator cuff strain can get in the way of enjoying the sport. Understanding the most common golf injuries, why they happen, and how to prevent them will help you stay healthy and…
Jakki was just 13 years old when she first experienced debilitating back pain so intense it rendered her unable to move, laugh, or even speak. It would come in waves, reappearing every couple of years, stealing weeks of her young life each time. Despite consulting over ten specialists, including chiropractors, acupuncturists, and physical therapists, her…
With walking trends going viral on TikTok, it is no surprise that many are wondering which of these are actually beneficial for your health and which are just hype. In a recent news segment, Dr. Colin Haines, spine surgeon at VSI, appeared on Fox5 DC to help separate fact from fiction. Watch the full clip…
You can find more about Jakki’s story, featured on WebMD.com. 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, and how she overcame her Bertolotti…
Bertolotti syndrome is a significantly under-recognized spine condition that can lead to debilitating lower back and leg symptoms. Despite its impact, it is frequently misdiagnosed or dismissed entirely. In this powerful episode of the Get Back to Your Life® podcast, spine surgeon and Bertolotti syndrome expert Dr. Colin Haines and his patient Janel share an…
VSI is proud to announce that our three renowned spine surgeons, Dr. Christopher Good, Dr. Colin Haines, and Dr. Ehsan Jazini, have been honored as the “Best Spine Surgeons” in DC Magazine’s prestigious Best of City 2025 awards. This recognition highlights our commitment to delivering life‑changing, cutting‑edge spine care to patients across Washington DC, Northern…
