Out-of-state? Free MRI review4.9 ★ · 630 Google reviewsBoard-certified spine surgeonSame-day spine surgeryCall (424) 217-7463
Out-of-state? Free MRI review + telehealth consult before you travel 4.9 ★ · 630 Google reviews Board-certified — American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery Minimally invasive, same-day spine surgery in Beverly Hills Call (424) 217-7463
Spine Health

Simple Tips for a Healthy Spine

Whether you find yourself sitting on the couch at home, lifting heavy items at work or walking around the park with your loved ones, it is important to do all you can to support your back and keep it healthy…

A man lying face down with a hand pressed to his lower back

Whether you find yourself sitting on the couch at home, lifting heavy items at work or walking around the park with your loved ones, it is important to do all you can to support your back and keep it healthy for the future. When standing, it is a good idea to keep one foot forward with your knees slightly bent in order to reduce pressure on your lower back. When carrying items- especially heavy objects- keep them close to your body so you do not have to strain complete your task. While you are sitting at work, try to keep your knees slightly higher than your hips and use proper posture so your spine does not take on any unnecessary weight. Lifestyle Choices Affect Back Pain Tolerance

Sticking to a healthy diet and exercise plan will reduce the amount of stress on your spine as well. By losing weight and doing exercises to strengthen your back, you can help to alleviate pain and give your body the support it needs. Talk with your doctor about your exercise plan and diet to make sure that you are still getting all the nutrients you need to keep your body in top shape. In addition, studies suggest that smokers have more spine pain than nonsmokers due to chemicals in tobacco smoke restricting blood flow to the tissues in and around your spine. Smokers also heal more slowly after having an episode of back pain or an injury due to this reason. You can learn more about what affects your back and how to get the relief you’re seeking by talking with your spine specialist.

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Patients on Google

Recent Google reviews

4.9 630 Google reviews
  • Renee Smith
    Rated 5 out of 5.

    Dr. Melemed is truly the best! He genuinely cares about his patients, and it shows in every aspect of the care he provides. I recently had an outpatient procedure, and I cannot say enough about how impressed I was with the surgery center. …

  • Melina Rodriguez
    Rated 5 out of 5.

    Dr. Melamed is an exceptional physician. I initially came to him for my spine concerns, but he took the time to look at the bigger picture, truly listen, and help me find the right resources and specialists for a separate, complex medical condition outside his specialty. …

  • Mark Myers
    Rated 5 out of 5.

    I was incapacitated, couldn’t stand, sit or walk. The pain was excruciating. I’ll spare you the diagnosis, but it was serious. I could only lie down with my foot up to reduce the pain. It required EMERGENCY surgery. …

  • Eric Nepomnaschy
    Rated 5 out of 5.

    I want to thank Dr. Melamed for taking great care of me. Dr. Melamed performed a minimally invasive microdiscectomy to free nerve that was being pinched and causing pain in my back and in my leg. Dr. Melamed’s approach is a very conservative, which I very much appreciate. …

  • Salvador Duran
    Rated 5 out of 5.

    Dr. Hooman Melamed: An Outstanding Surgeon and a Blessing to Our Family If you or a loved one are suffering from severe back pain and feel like you have run out of options, please read our story. For a long time, my wife lived in a state of constant agony. …

Reviews from Google Individual results vary.

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