Before You Go
Dates and Location
October 14-17, 2026
Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center
San Antonio, TX
Hotels
NASS is offering hotel blocks in seven hotels that are convenient to the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center.
Henry B. González Convention Center 900 E Market St.
1. San Antonio Marriott Riverwalk: 889 E Market St.
2. Grand Hyatt San Antonio Riverwalk (Co-Headquarters Hotel): 600 E Market St.
3. San Antonio Marriott Rivercenter on the River Walk (Co-Headquarters Hotel): 101 Bowie St.
4. Hilton Palacio del Rio Hotel: 200 S Alamo St.
5. Hyatt Regency San Antonio Riverwalk: 123 Losoya St.
6. The Westin Riverwalk San Antonio: 420 W Market St.
Did You Know: Of all NASS hotels, The Westin Riverwalk is the most centrally located with direct access to The Alamo.
7. Courtyard by Marriott San Antonio Riverwalk: 207 N St. Mary's St.
To get the best pricing, complete your Annual Meeting and book your hotel online at www.spine.org/am or by phone 800-545-1773 (US/Canada) or 312-527-7300 (International), 9am-5pm ET.
For First-Time Attendees
What to Expect: NASS is a dynamic, multitrack meeting with concurring sessions occurring simultaneously throughout most of the day. With so many concurrent sessions and activities, there's something to fill every spine clinician's and researcher's needs. Focus on the sessions and experiences that are most relevant to your interests and goals. And if you want to view all sessions, make sure to subscribe to NASS Anytime during registration for the best pricing and access to the entire meeting OnDemand!
Networking Guidance: Networking at NASS 2026 extends beyond the lecture hall. Receptions, alumni gatherings, lunches, and social events provide relaxed opportunities to reconnect with colleagues, meet new peers, and continue discussions outside the formal sessions.
The Technical Exhibition, in particular, offers opportunities to explore new technologies, ask questions, and engage directly with industry representatives, innovators, and fellow attendees – and be on the lookout for an armadillo race on the Exhibition Floor.
Meeting Attire Recommendations: Most attendees at the NASS Annual Meeting dress in business casual or professional business attire. Comfortable shoes and a light jacket or sweater are recommended, as session rooms can vary in temperature.
Mobile App Overview
The NASS Events mobile app allows attendees to access meeting information and manage their schedules throughout the Annual Meeting. Features include:
- Personalized session planning
- Meeting schedules and room location
- Technical exhibition maps
- Networking and social event information
- Real-time meeting updates and notifications
- Session and exhibitor bookmarking
- Session notetaking
- Handout downloads (when available)
The app is available for both Apple and Android devices. Search “NASS Events” in your app store to download.
Continuing Medical Education Credit
The North American Spine Society is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) to provide continuing medical education for physicians.
The North American Spine Society designates this live activity for a maximum of 21.5 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™.
Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.
The American Medical Association has determined that physicians not licensed in the US to participate in this CME activity are eligible for AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™
Premeeting Webinars
Premeeting webinars are free for NASS members and allow attendees to extend their learning experience with curated virtual sessions on sessions that are trending in spine care.
Bertolotti Syndrome: Interventional and Surgical Evaluation, Management, and Treatment
Tuesday, September 15 7:00 p.m. CT
Developed by the Section on Interventional Spine and Musculoskeletal Medicine (ISMM), this webinar explores Bertolotti syndrome—low back pain associated with a lumbosacral transitional vertebra (LSTV)—an often underrecognized source of persistent lumbar symptoms. Faculty will review clinical presentation, patient selection considerations, interventional treatment strategies, psychosocial factors influencing outcomes, and indications for surgical management. Attendees will gain practical insights to help distinguish symptomatic LSTV from other pain generators and develop more effective, individualized treatment plans across the continuum of care.
From Awareness to Action: Bone Health Optimization, Osteoporosis Education, and Secondary Fracture Prevention in Spine Care—The National Spine Health Foundation Model
Thursday, September 24 7:00 p.m. CT
Co-branded with The National Spine Health Foundation, this webinar highlights national efforts to close persistent gaps in osteoporosis identification, education, and secondary fracture prevention across spine care. Faculty will introduce the National Spine Health Foundation’s Bone Health Task Force framework, clinician and patient education resources, and recent survey findings that reveal opportunities to improve care delivery. The session also explores value-based care strategies and coordinated approaches to integrating bone health optimization into routine spine practice. Ideal for clinicians seeking practical tools to strengthen osteoporosis screening, patient engagement, and fracture prevention pathways.
Interdisciplinary Approach to Evaluating Lumbopelvic Pain in Rotational Athletes
Thursday, October 1 7:00 p.m. CT
Presented by the Section on Sacroiliac and Pelvic Girdle Pain, this webinar explores the complex relationship between spine, sacroiliac joint, and hip pathology in athletes who rely on rotational movement—from adolescent competitors to aging recreational golfers. Faculty from biomechanics, physical therapy, and orthopedic spine surgery will outline practical evaluation strategies to help clinicians distinguish overlapping pain generators and refine diagnosis. Through case-based discussion and interdisciplinary perspectives, attendees will gain tools to guide targeted treatment planning across rehabilitation, interventional care, and surgical pathways. Ideal for clinicians managing athletic and activity-related lumbopelvic pain across diverse patient populations.
Onsite Information
Badge Pick-up and On-Site Registration Hours
Attendees can pick up their badges on-site at Attendee Registration. Hours are:
- Wednesday, October 14: 6:30 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
- Thursday, October 15: 6:30 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
- Friday, October 16: 6:30 a.m. –5:00 p.m.
- Saturday, October 17: 6:30–10:45 a.m.
Speaker Information Center
Presenters can upload or amend their presentations by visiting the Speaker Information Center, which will be located in the lobby area outside of the session rooms. Speakers are not permitted to use their own laptops for their presentations. All presentations must be in a PowerPoint format.
Program Information
Visit the Meeting at a Glance in the Annual Meeting Program to see all abstract presentation sessions, symposia, special sessions, spotlight podiums, and networking opportunities.
Presidential Guest Speaker
Jennifer Breheny Wallace, an award-winning journalist and bestselling author of two instant New York Times best sellers (Never Enough: When Achievement Culture Becomes Toxic – And What We Can Do About It and Mattering: The Secret to a Life of Deep Connection and Purpose) will be the Presidential Guest Speaker for NASS 2026.
Technical Exhibition and Industry Events
Get hands-on at the spine industry’s largest display of implants, instruments, and additional products and services. Touch and feel the countless spine care instruments and equipment. Take advantage of hands-on learning experiences with an in-booth demonstration while talking to the designers and engineers. Make the most of your time in the exhibit hall.
Exhibit Hall Hours
Wednesday, October 14 9:00 a.m.– 3:30 p.m.
Thursday, October 15 9:00 a.m.– 3:30 p.m.
Friday, October 16 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Exhibit Hall Activities
Wednesday, October 14: Longhorn Encounter Step into the spirit of San Antonio with our unforgettable Longhorn Encounter & Photo Op, where Lone Star charm meets larger than life moments! This show-stopping exhibit hall activation invites attendees to get up close with a majestic Texas longhorn, known for its impressive horns and even bigger personality.
Thursday, October 15: Armadillo Racing Ready… set… scurry! Get a taste of quirky Texas fun at our Armadillo Racing Experiencee, A one of a kind San Antonio inspired activation that brings big laughs and even bigger charm to the exhibit hall!
Kickoff Party
Wednesday, October 14 5:30-6:30 p.m.
Reconnect with friends and network with colleagues after the day’s sessions have ended. Relax and enjoy complimentary appetizers and beverages with a touch of Texas-sized fun. Take in the lively sounds of a mariachi band while sipping refreshing margaritas. It's the perfect way to kick off your NASS 2026 experience in true San Antonio style.
Enhanced Breaks
Wednesday, October 14: Brews, Brisket & Burros
The ultimate networking break where the food is hot and the guests of honor have long ears. Ice-cold brews, slow-smoked brisket sliders served with golden cornbread. Meet our adorable Beer Burros and pose for photo ops!
Thursday, October 15: Texas Showdown
Take the reins with our build-your-own nacho bar. Enjoy golden-brown churros and wash them down with Aguas Frescas—traditional Mexican-style chilled fruit waters.
Spine Venture Village
Step into the Spine Venture Village—a dynamic, incubator-style hub in the exhibit hall, designed to bring the future of spine care into focus. This immersive environment convenes startups, early-stage companies, and forward-thinking clinicians in a collaborative setting where ideas are not just presented—they’re refined, challenged, and accelerated. Meet the next generation of spine innovators, learn about breakthrough technologies and emerging treatment paradigms, participate in daily innovation forums, and peer-to-peer learning.
Networking and Community Events
Enjoy ample opportunities to connect with friends and colleagues. Take part in the fun at the Kickoff Party, enjoy a wide range of special luncheons and receptions, participate in relaxing and fun activities in the exhibit hall, and experience diverse local cuisine.
Kickoff Party
Wednesday, October 14 5:30-6:30 p.m.
Reconnect with friends and network with colleagues after the day’s sessions have ended. Relax and enjoy complimentary appetizers and beverages. It’s the perfect way to kick off your NASS 2026 meeting experience.
Emeritus Engagement Luncheon
Thursday, October 15 12:00-1:00 p.m.
Join the Emeritus Engagement Committee for their first networking luncheon. Panel discussions and breakout roundtable discussions may be included in this activity.
Women in Spine Networking Luncheon
Friday, October 16
12:00-1:00 p.m.
This event aims to foster an inclusive community where participants can engage in meaningful discussions about the underrepresentation of women in the spine profession. Attendees will explore the factors contributing to this disparity and collaborate on actionable strategies to promote diversity, mentorship, and career advancement for women in the field. Through open dialogue and networking opportunities, this session aims to inspire change and encourage more women to pursue careers in spine.
Early Career Advisory Council Luncheon and Roundtable Discussions
Friday, October 16
12:00-1:30 p.m.
This luncheon is aimed at early career attendees to join informal small-group discussions on career advancement, transitioning to practice, and topics not typically covered in residency or fellowship. Each group will be led by a member of the Early Career Advisory Council, along with experienced mid- to late-career spine care providers and researchers specializing in the discussion topic.
APP Welcome Reception
Friday, October 16
4:30-5:30 p.m.
This informal gathering is open to advanced practice providers and all members of the spine care team interested in APP-focused education and collaboration. It provides a chance to exchange ideas, build professional connections, connect with faculty from the Saturday APP Course, and learn more about APP programming at NASS.
Early Career Reception
Friday, October 16
4:30-5:30 p.m.
New for 2026: Alumni Events
NASS members can host alumni events at one of the during NASS 2026. Open to an array of event formats from small gatherings to receptions, the NASS team is available to help you reconnect with your alumni community on-site at this year’s Annual Meeting. If you’d like to start planning your event, you can complete this form or connect with Stephanie Mizukis directly.
Social Media and Meeting Coverage
Official Hashtag
Join the conversation online by using #NASS2026 in your social posts. Share insights from sessions, connect with colleagues, and follow meeting highlights throughout the week.
Daily News
During the meeting, watch your inbox for session previews, attendee highlights, and exclusive content through the NASS eDaily News.
SpineLine
Look for postmeeting coverage in the November/December issue of SpineLine, featuring key takeaways, expert perspectives, and highlights from select educational sessions and events.
After the Meeting
OnDemand Access
If registered in-person for 2026 NASS Annual Meeting, you will receive a discounted rate for NASS Anytime. To learn more about NASS Anytime, check out the demo here.
With Full Meeting
Member: $99
Member In-Training: $49
Nonmember: $199
With One-Day
Member: $149
Member In-Training: $49
Nonmember: $279
Claim CME
After the meeting, visit www.spine.org/CME to complete your evaluation and access your CME certificate and/or transcript. Contact education@spine.org with questions.
Save the Date: Future Meetings
September 23-25, 2027 Boston, MA
October 2-4, 2028 New Orleans, LA