| Document and Entity Information | Apr. 27, 2023 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Entity Registrant Name | NUVASIVE INC |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0001142596 |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Apr. 27, 2023 |
| Entity Incorporation State Country Code | DE |
| Entity File Number | 000-50744 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 33-0768598 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 12101 Airport Way |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Broomfield |
| Entity Address, State or Province | CO |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 80021 |
| City Area Code | (800) |
| Local Phone Number | 455-1476 |
| Written Communications | true |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre Commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre Commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Security 12b Title | Common Stock, par value $0.001 |
| Trading Symbol | NUVA |
| Security Exchange Name | NASDAQ |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
