Spine

Our orthopedic spine specialists provide both surgical and nonsurgical expertise to people living with spine related conditions and injuries. UC San Diego Health System brings together the multidisciplinary talents of orthopedic spine specialists, physiatrists, anesthesia pain experts, radiologists, physical therapists, high-end imaging and diagnostics and other clinical and research experts.

Developing improved treatments for addressing spine conditions is a cornerstone of our work. Through our research programs at the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, we explore advanced procedures, technologies, devices and medications. We provide you access to clinical trials for new therapies. Read more about research and clinical trials in orthopedic surgery at UC San Diego Health System.

The majority of individuals with spinal conditions don’t need surgery to get better. When a thorough exam and diagnosis has been made, we work with you to utilize nonsurgical solutions including therapeutic exercise, injection therapy and medications. Read more about Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation.

If you do need surgery, UC San Diego Health System has some of the most accomplished spine surgeons in the world. Our special expertise includes minimally invasive surgical procedures for vertebral fractures; lateral minimally invasive approaches for anterior lumbar interbody fusions (eg. XLIF or DLIF) for degenerative conditions, scoliosis and trauma; cervical, thoracic, lumbar and lumbosacral intervertebral disc removal; spinal cord injuries; vertebral hemangiomas; spinal tumors and spinal stenosis. Read more about treatments for spinal conditions.