Marina Spine Center

A World Leader

The Marina Spine Center is a multidisciplinary center offering comprehensive spine services, from evaluation and diagnosis to surgery and rehabilitation. Our program combines the proven experience of the nation’s leading spine surgeons performing the newest, most advanced surgical solutions.

Aaron Miller

Miller was checked out by back specialist Dr. Robert Watkins.

Adam Graves

Graves saw Dr. Watkins of Marina Spine Center about his herniated disc.

Ahmad Bradshaw

After injuring himself, Ahmad Bradshaw needed surgery.

Al Iafrate

Al Iafrate underwent back surgery for his sciatic nerve damage.

Al Wilson

Al Wilson was cleared to return to the field by Dr. Robert Watkins.

Alfredo Griffin

Dr. Robert Watkins performed surgery on Griffin's back.

Arian Foster

Arian Foster had to take a few weeks off for recovery.

Austin Croshere

Croshere went to see back specialist Dr. Robert Watkins.

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Our World-Renowned Surgeons

Patients have direct access to a full range of treatments, including conservative non-surgical approaches and pain management techniques, minimally invasive procedures that ease pain and expedite recovery, and advanced surgical techniques that can restore function when pain or injury is severe or debilitating. With a staff of experts including renowned spinal surgeon Dr. Robert Watkins of the Athletes Spine Center, the Marina Spine Center is a worldwide leader in treating back pain and spinal injuries.

Robert Watkins IV, M.D.
Co-Medical Director
Robert Watkins III, M.D.
Co-Medical Director
David Chang, M.D.
Director of Surgical Resources and Technology

The Future of Spine Surgery

Means getting back in the game sooner

Professional athletes from the NBA, NFL, NHL, USGA, and MLB have all chosen Marina Spine Center for essential procedures due to the:

Center's unmatched expertise,
State-of-the-art technology,
Close working relationships with physical therapists and athletic trainers all over the country.

The same consideration and attention used when treating these professional athletes is given to every single patient.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will numbness in my legs go away after microdiscectomy?

In some cases it may take weeks or months, perhaps even a year for post-surgical numbness to disappear. If you still experience this numbness after a year, it is probably permanent. This is a subject you may want to discuss further with your physician.

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My physician wants me to have fusion surgery. After surgery, will I be able to use the stairs?

Usually, walking up and down the stairs after surgery is not a problem. Your surgeon will probably want you to limit your bending, lifting and twisting, however, to allow the fusion to heal properly. You will be given additional instructions and guidelines before and after your spine surgery to ensure a good recovery.

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What is the difference between a herniated disc and a bulging disc?

A herniated disc is “non-contained” which means that a tear or break is present and a section of the gel-like nucleus pulposus has slipped into the spinal canal while a bulging disc is “contained“, meaning that the outer layer of the disc does not have any tears or ruptures, and no portion of the nucleus has leaked out of the disc.

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When can I go back to work after minimally invasive back surgery?

For patients that have sedentary jobs, a minimally invasive back surgery would allow the patient to begin working part-time in 1-2 weeks. For a bigger surgery such as fusion, it may take up to 6 weeks.

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Do I have to wear a collar after ACDF?

Yes, a collar is necessary following ACDF. Your doctor will provide you with all the information you need on this topic.

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Marina del Rey Hospital is an affiliate of Cedars-Sinai Health System, 133-bed acute care Joint Commission accredited hospital offering general acute medical services and 24/7 emergency care.

This page was last updated on 01/20/2021 8:36 AM PST