Out-of-state? Free MRI review4.9 ★ · 619 Google reviewsBoard-certified spine surgeonSame-day spine surgeryCall (424) 217-7463
Out-of-state? Free MRI review + telehealth consult before you travel 4.9 ★ · 619 Google reviews Board-certified — American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery Minimally invasive, same-day spine surgery in Beverly Hills Call (424) 217-7463

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Clear, careful writing
on the spine.

Straight-talking guides on minimally invasive surgery, common conditions, and traveling in for care — written to help you make a good decision, not to sell you one.

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Latest

Spinal Stenosis: Symptoms and Modern Treatment Options

Stenosis has a telltale pattern: legs that ache when you walk and ease when you lean forward. Here's what's happening, and how treatment has changed.

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A man sitting on his bed and holding his neck and lower back Conditions

How To Tell If Your Back Pain Is Serious

Back pain is incredibly common, with up to 80% of adults experiencing at least one episode of back pain in their lifetimes. In fact, it is one of the costliest medical problems in the United States, and a leading…

A traveler wheeling a suitcase through an empty airport terminal Concierge Care

Flying In for Spine Surgery: A Guide for Out-of-State Patients

A large share of our patients fly in — many after being told fusion was their only option. Here's how the out-of-state process actually works, step by step.

A lumbar spine model with yellow nerves lying on a notebook Conditions

Comparison of Innovative Therapies for Chronic Back Pain Relief 2026

Up to 80% of adults will experience an episode of back pain. Even mild chronic back pain can be disruptive and frustrating. Historically, treatment options have been limited.

A woman at a window wincing and rubbing her neck with both hands Conditions

How To Prevent a Pinched Nerve

Pinched nerves are one of the most common causes of nerve pain and back pain. Studies estimate that up to 40% of people will experience at least one episode of lower back pain caused by a pinched nerve at…

A doctor talking with a woman who sits on an exam table and holds her lower back Conditions

Sciatica: When Minimally Invasive Treatment Makes Sense

Most sciatica gets better without surgery. But there are clear signs that a small, targeted procedure is worth a conversation. Here's how to tell the difference.

Gloved hands using surgical instruments and suction during a spine operation Procedures

What Is Biportal Endoscopic Spine Surgery (BESS)?

Two openings smaller than a fingertip, a high-definition camera, and no muscle cutting. Here is how the biportal endoscopic approach actually works — and who it tends to help.

An anatomical skeleton model showing the skull, rib cage and upper spine Conditions

Can You Make Bone Spurs Go Away?

If you’ve been researching bone spurs online, you may have come across claims that they can be dissolved naturally with certain diets, supplements, or home remedies. Unfortunately, these claims aren’t supported by medical evidence.

A doctor in a white coat listening to a patient across her desk Treatments

Latest Non-Surgical Back Pain Treatment Options

Back pain can take a toll on many aspects of life, and many people avoid seeking treatment out of fear of needing surgery. Fortunately, most cases don’t require an operation. In fact, up to 90% of low back pain…

A man in a gym holding his lower back as he reaches for a towel Recovery

Rehabilitation Protocols for Sports Spine Injuries

Whether it happens during a playoff run or a routine workout, a sudden change in your neck or back can instantly take you out of the game. Spine injuries are surprisingly common — accounting for approximately 15% of all sports…

A gloved hand holding a surgical instrument under an operating light Treatments

Post-Surgery Nerve Pain: What To Do When It Lingers

Recovery after back pain is a gradual process, and it doesn’t look the same for everyone. Some pain and discomfort are a normal part of healing. However, research shows that up to 10% to 50% of patients report lingering…

X-ray of a spine with a sideways curve Conditions

Is Scoliosis Hereditary?

You may recall being checked for scoliosis by your primary care provider or a school nurse as a child. To screen for this spinal condition, you may have been asked to stand up straight while a nurse or physician checks…

Second opinions welcome

Not sure if surgery is the answer? Neither are we — until we've seen your MRI.

Send your imaging for a personal review with Dr. Melamed. Many patients learn a smaller, muscle-sparing option is on the table.