Posts by Neel Anand MD
The “Zombie” Apocalypse in Your Spine: A New Frontier in Longevity?
As a spine surgeon, I’ve spent my career focusing on the spine as a mechanical structure. When patients come to me with a “crumbling” spine, what doctors call spinal stenosis or degenerative disc disease, the usual approach has been to treat mechanical problems. But as medicine advances, some of the most exciting discoveries are happening…
Read MoreThe “Anti-Sedentary” Office: Why Your Expensive Chair is Making Your Core Lazy
For years, wellness experts have warned that sitting is as harmful as smoking. We switched to standing desks and expensive chairs. But in 2026, data shows back pain rates are still very high. So, what have we really changed? The “Anti-Sedentary” office of 2026 isn’t about standing still — it’s about micro-movement and a different…
Read MoreThe Backbone of Cardiovascular Health: Linking Your Heart and Your Spine
As we celebrate American Heart Month this February, the focus is traditionally on “pumping” — how to keep the heart muscle strong and the arteries clear. To truly understand cardiovascular health, we have to look at the “scaffolding” that supports it. Your spine isn’t just a pillar for your posture; it is a vital partner…
Read MoreWinter Spine Safety: A Surgeon’s Guide to Navigating the Ice and Snow
January can be a busy time of the year for spine specialists. Between the sudden shift to heavy manual labor (snow shoveling), high-impact winter sports, and the treachery of icy pavement, the “Winter Wanderer” faces a gauntlet of potential spinal hazards. As a spine surgeon, I encourage my patients to enjoy the beauty of the…
Read MoreBack Pain Doesn’t Discriminate: Why It Can Affect Anyone, Regardless of Age
When it comes to back pain, it’s not just a problem for older adults or those who have spent years doing physical labor. Back pain is a widespread issue that can affect anyone, regardless of age. From teenagers to seniors, a severe backache can disrupt anyone’s life. Understanding the various causes across different age groups…
Read MoreStop the Stiffness! Your Guide to Avoiding Neck Pain This Winter
As the temperatures deep and the air takes on a crisp, cool edge, many people find themselves experiencing an unwelcome seasonal shift: the return of nagging neck pain. It might seem odd, but the transition from summer warmth to winter chill — and all the behavioral changes that come with it can make your cervical…
Read MoreKeep the Merriment, Skip the Misery: 7 Ways to Outsmart Seasonal Back Pain
The holidays are here! A time of festive cheer, family gatherings, copious food, and – let’s be honest – a surprising amount of physical labor. From hauling decorations to wrestling with luggage and spending hours in the kitchen, the season of giving often comes with an unexpected gift: back pain. It’s a common complaint, but…
Read MoreTwo Truths and a Lie About Spine Surgery
Spine surgery – the phrase alone can trigger a flood of anxiety, worry, and outdated misconceptions. For some who suffer from debilitating back or neck pain, the fear of surgery can outweigh the hope of relief. You may have heard dramatic stories from friends or read terrifying warnings online that paint a picture of a…
Read MoreDr. Neel Anand Appointed President of The Society for Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery (SMISS)
The Anand Spine Group is excited to announce that renowned spine surgeon Dr. Neel Anand, Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery and Neurosurgery and Medical Director of the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Neurosurgery at Cedars Sinai Medical Center at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles, has been appointed President of The Society for Minimally Invasive Spine…
Read MoreFrom Pills to Progress: Ushering in a New Era for the Treatment of Back Pain
Back pain is one of the most common reasons people seek medical care, and for decades, opioids were a go-to solution for managing both acute and chronic cases. However, a significant shift is underway, as the use of opioids for back pain is in a steady decline. Driving this change is a greater understanding of…
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