Spine

Blair Allan knew exactly what it looked like to the Urgent Care team in Los Angeles: A late-20s, healthy woman who had suffered no injury, showing up to the Urgent Care complaining of pain and asking for relief. It’s September 2020. The opioid epidemic is in full swing. Blair forgives the nurses for their caution. … Read More

In her 20s, Candice Timmons was involved in a car accident that resulted in chronic back pain. Physical therapy helped for a few years until she developed sciatica during her first pregnancy. Her second pregnancy brought on even more pain. In November 2021, her pain grabbed hold and never let go. Her mobility diminished until … Read More

About 30 years ago, I started coaching with USA Triathlon and with USA Track & Field, and I also became a personal trainer. A year into personal training, I had a client who was an Ironman, and he dared me to compete in a triathlon. I said, “OK, but I don’t know how to swim,” … Read More

 

 

When it comes to reviewing your spine condition and treatment options, making an informed decision is critical. “Getting a second opinion is critical in making a decision about spine surgery,” said Burak Ozgur, M.D., director of the Hoag Spine Center. “We give second opinions, and we welcome our patients to seek them as well. We … Read More

Chronic back pain is more than, well, a pain. It can be disabling, affecting a person’s ability to work and interfering with their quality of life. It can also be managed in part through lifestyle changes. “Even small alterations to your diet, exercise regime and sleep can help you manage chronic back pain,” said Charles … Read More

The award-winning Hoag Spine Center has a message for surfers: “We hope never to meet you, but if you do get injured in the ocean, we’re here for you.” “Most neck and spinal cord injuries at the beach are caused by an ocean wave forcing your neck and spine into harmful, unnatural positions,” said Director … Read More

SAN CLEMENTE, Calif. — Two decades ago, Beth Sanden suffered her first spinal injury while preparing for the Boston Marathon and the Ironman Triathlon in Hawaii.  Sanden was going downhill, going 45 to 50 mph on a bike, when she slid over broken asphalt and flipped over.  “My spinal cord was like an accordion,” she … Read More

NEWPORT BEACH, Calif. (August 16, 2023) – Hoag is advancing the care and management of pain patients in Orange County with the addition of Charles De Mesa, D.O., M.P.H., who will serve as Chief of Interventional Pain, Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation at the Hoag Spine Center. He joins the multidisciplinary, specialized team of spine care … Read More