Targeting Weight Loss In A Healthy Way

Many of our patients at Unruh Spine Centers come to us with a shared goal: regaining pain-free movement and getting back to their active lives. Sometimes, doctors recommend weight loss as part of a treatment plan for chronic pain conditions. Here in Southern California, weight loss injections are a popular option, but we believe it's important to prioritize healthy and sustainable weight management for long-term success.

Unruh Spine Center will delve into the connections between weight, overall health, and pain management. We'll discuss when weight loss might be appropriate for your specific situation and outline healthy approaches to achieve your goals. We'll also address the potential risks of weight loss injections.

If you're considering weight loss, Unruh Spine Centers can be your partner in achieving lasting results. We offer a comprehensive support system that prioritizes healthy habits and long-term success. 

Ready to take control of your pain and get back to the life you love? Contact Unruh Spine Centers today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can help you reach your weight loss goals safely and effectively.

How Weight And Health Go Hand In Hand

Carrying excess weight puts a strain on your entire body. The muscles and joints in your back, knees, and hips are especially vulnerable to the added stress. Being overweight can exacerbate existing pain conditions and even contribute to the development of new ones. Research shows that excess weight is linked to a higher risk of numerous health problems, including:

• Arthritis: Excess weight puts extra pressure on your joints, which can worsen pain and inflammation caused by arthritis.
• Heart Disease: Obesity is a major risk factor for heart disease, the leading cause of death in the United States. Excess weight can increase your blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and risk of blood clots.
• Diabetes: Type 2 diabetes is a condition in which your body becomes resistant to insulin or doesn't produce enough insulin. Excess weight can make it harder for your body to control blood sugar levels.
• High Blood Pressure (Hypertension): When you carry excess weight, your heart has to work harder to pump blood throughout your body. This can lead to high blood pressure, which is a major risk factor for heart disease and stroke.
• Sleep Apnea: This sleep disorder causes breathing to stop and start repeatedly throughout the night. Excess weight can narrow the airway, making sleep apnea more likely.

These conditions can all contribute to chronic pain and limit your mobility.

When You Should Consider Weight Loss

If you're carrying excess weight and experiencing chronic pain, losing weight can significantly improve your overall well-being and pain management. Here are some signs that weight loss might be beneficial for you:

• Your doctor recommends it – They can assess your individual situation and determine if weight loss is a safe and appropriate goal.
• Everyday activities are difficult – Carrying extra weight can make simple tasks like climbing stairs or walking a chore.
• You have limited mobility – This can put additional strain on your joints and worsen pain.
• You have pre-existing health conditions – As mentioned above, weight loss can lower your risk for various health problems.

Work With Unruh To Create A Healthy Plan

At Unruh Spine Centers, we believe in a holistic approach to weight loss. We'll work with you to develop a personalized plan that focuses on healthy habits you can maintain for life. Our approach may include:

• Developing a balanced diet – We can connect you with a registered dietitian to create a meal plan that provides the nutrients your body needs for optimal health and weight loss.
• Regular exercise – Our physical therapists will create an exercise program tailored to your fitness level and pain management needs. Even low-impact exercises like walking or swimming can significantly improve your health.
• Addressing underlying issues – Sometimes, chronic pain can lead to emotional eating or a lack of motivation to exercise. We can provide support to address these challenges.

Remember: Weight loss is a journey, not a destination. It's important to focus on progress, not perfection.

Risks Associated With Weight Loss Injections

While weight loss injections have become a popular trend, they're not a guaranteed solution. These injections can cause side effects like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and fatigue. More importantly, they aren't a replacement for developing healthy habits. 

At Unruh Spine Centers, we believe in sustainable weight loss achieved through diet and exercise. This approach offers long-term results and is suitable for a wider range of people. It's important to note that weight loss injections have limitations. They're typically prescribed for individuals with a higher BMI and can be expensive, with insurance coverage varying. 

To determine if injections are right for you, we recommend discussing the potential benefits and risks with your doctor. Remember, weight loss can be a powerful tool for managing chronic pain and improving your overall health, and Unruh Spine Centers is here to help you achieve that through a safe and effective approach.