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Nutrition at the Spine Center

The San Francisco Spine Center incorporates the science of nutrition into medical treatment of patients with spinal disease. Patients with chronic back pain and osteoporosis are referred to the nutritionist for assessment of their dietary intake and patterns. The nutritionist uses this information to develop a realistic nutritional plan which can benefit the patient on a long term basis.

The goal of nutritional intervention in osteoporosis is to promote positive calcium balance. The nutritionist analyzes the patient's diet for factors which both promote and reduce calcium balance. Factors which promote positive balance are reinforced while those that reduce calcium balance are identified. The nutritionist then recommends alternative dietary choices, patterns and/or behaviors which help increase the retention of calcium stores.

Loss of mobility as well as weight gain are a common occurrence in those suffering from chronic back pain. This consequent weight gain can further impair mobility and aggravate pre-existing back pain. The goal of nutritional intervention in these patients is to improve their dietary behaviors and/or choices for weight maintenance and/or weight loss. All nutritional recommendations are based upon the patient's actual dietary preferences, patterns, and lifestyle. This realistic approach of emphasizing improved eating, instead of rigid diet plans, has proven to be more successful in achieving long term success in the prevention and treatment of obesity.