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Hoag Orthopedic Institute Hoag Orthopedic Institute
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Nationally Recognized Orthopedic Back and Spine Specialists

Back pain can affect your work, your sleep and even your happiness. At Hoag Orthopedic Institute, we believe back pain shouldn’t define your future. Our world-class spine team offers the latest treatment options, from advanced non-surgical therapies to innovative minimally invasive spine procedures. We are Orange County’s leader in treating even the most complex conditions. Whether you’re suffering from a herniated disc, spinal stenosis or chronic neck and back pain, our experts will develop a personalized plan to help you find relief and get back to the activities you love sooner.

Our commitment to exceptional outcomes is reflected in our low complication rates and continued national recognition as one of the nation’s top-performing orthopedic programs.

Getting You Back to Your Life’s Pursuit. Hoag Orthopedic Institute.

Your first visit to Hoag Orthopedic Institute is a chance for you and your spine specialist to get a complete picture of your current back health and goals for recovery. You’ll meet with a board-certified, fellowship-trained back doctor who will listen to your concerns, review any prior imaging or test results, and ask detailed questions about your symptoms and lifestyle. A detailed physical exam may follow to assess your range of motion, strength, and nerve function.

Your back specialist may recommend advanced imaging or additional diagnostic tests available onsite. Together, you’ll discuss what’s causing your pain or mobility limitations and review both non-surgical and surgical treatment options. You’ll leave with a clear and personalized plan designed for your specific needs—and a team ready to support you through each step of your care.

Why Choose Us?

As Orange County’s leader in neck and spine care, Hoag Orthopedic Institute’s world-class spine specialists offer the latest non-surgical treatments and advanced minimally invasive procedures, creating a personalized treatment plan based on your needs and goals.

If surgery is right for you, our experienced, fellowship-trained spine surgeons provide the most advanced treatment options available, including minimally invasive techniques, motion-preserving procedures and robotic-assisted navigation designed to enhance precision and support recovery.

If you’re seeking a second opinion, our spine experts can provide the expertise and clarity you need to make a confident, informed decision.

Division Chief of Spine Surgery Jeremy Smith, MD

Dr. Smith is a well-respected, fellowship trained surgeon specializing in Orthopaedic Spine Surgery as well as cutting edge treatment of degenerative spinal conditions. Dr. Smith also has significant interest in the treatment of spinal trauma, particularly spinal cord injury and has made significant laboratory and clinical contributions that have advanced the field. In his role as Division Chief of Surgical Spine, Dr. Smith aims to improve public education and community outreach related to spine surgery, as well as create and proactively maintain open communication with other physicians to bring awareness to the program. Other responsibilities include creating and maintaining ongoing positive communications with, and dissemination of, information to members of the joint replacement program team and outside vendors related ongoing activities. 

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Frequently Asked Questions

  • Your first visit to Hoag Orthopedic Institute is a chance for you and your spine specialist to get a complete picture of your current back health and goals for recovery. You’ll meet with a board-certified, fellowship-trained back doctor who will listen to your concerns, review any prior imaging or test results, and ask detailed questions about your symptoms and lifestyle. A detailed physical exam may follow to assess your range of motion, strength, and nerve function.

    Your back specialist may recommend advanced imaging or additional diagnostic tests available onsite. Together, you’ll discuss what’s causing your pain or mobility limitations and review both non-surgical and surgical treatment options. You’ll leave with a clear and personalized plan designed for your specific needs—and a team ready to support you through each step of your care.

  • You can connect with one of our qualified spine specialists to review your symptoms, discuss any existing test results, and explore your back treatment options. To schedule your appointment, simply call our scheduling team at (949) 890-0464 or complete the secure request form on our website.

    We’ll connect you with the right back doctor for your needs and can help arrange imaging or records before your visit. From the start, you’ll have access to advanced diagnostics and the latest treatments—including the latest techniques for minimally invasive procedures—tailored to your condition and goals.

  • At Hoag Orthopedic Institute, our highly qualified physical therapists, back doctors, and spine surgeons work together to treat a broad range of spine conditions. These include addressing herniated discs, relieving spinal stenosis, and managing degenerative disc disease and scoliosis. Conservative treatments often include targeted physical therapy, image-guided injections to relieve nerve pain, or medications to reduce inflammation.

    When surgery is your most effective option, our spine specialists perform procedures including spinal decompression to free compressed nerves, spinal fusion to stabilize the spine, and disc replacement to maintain mobility. Many operations are performed using minimally invasive or robotic-assisted techniques, which combine advanced imaging with precise instrument control to protect surrounding tissues and support a smoother recovery. Our back specialists devise a custom spine plan for each patient, designed to relieve pain, restore function, and help them return to active, pain-free living.

  • Hoag Orthopedic Institute offers expert care from fellowship-trained, board-certified orthopedic spine surgeons, back doctors, and spine specialists who are leaders in their field. Our team also utilizes advanced techniques such as robotic-assisted spine surgery—providing greater surgical planning, accuracy, steadier instrument control, and less disruption to healthy structures for a smoother recovery.

    Exceptional technology and an excellent surgical outcome form just part of your experience with our specialized back care. Your orthopedic spine doctor will focus on your total well-being, creating a personalized treatment plan—surgical or non-surgical—to help you move without pain and regain function. From diagnosis through recovery, we’re committed to getting you back to the lifestyle you love, free from the limitations of back pain or dysfunction.

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