Get Back To It

A high school athlete faced an unexpected diagnosis—rapidly progressing scoliosis that threatened the life she loved. From intense bracing to spinal fusion surgery, she endured months of pain, setbacks, and sacrifice. But through it all, she found strength she didn't know she had. Now six months post-op, she's back on her feet and discovering new passions beyond the cheer mat. Tune in to hear how this remarkable teen turned a life-changing challenge into a story of triumph and hope. Support the show

A young athlete faced the unthinkable—a spinal injury that left her immobile. But with expert care and determination, she not only regained her mobility but also found a new purpose in helping others. Now, as a medical assistant and aspiring physician assistant, she inspires patients facing similar challenges. Tune in to hear her powerful story! Support the show

On this episode of Get Back to It, we're sharing the inspiring journey of a lifelong fighter who refused to let scoliosis define her. After years of pushing through pain and limitations, she made the life-changing decision to undergo reconstructive surgery—and it transformed her world. Now, she's back to doing what she loves, from skiing to keeping up with her grandkids!  Tune in to hear her powerful story of resilience, recovery, and finally standing tall—literally and figuratively. Support the show

This competitive athlete refused to let scoliosis define his life. After years of unbearable pain, he faced a grueling recovery, but refused to let his condition define him. Tune in to hear how his resilience, the right surgeon, and unwavering determination helped him reclaim his strength.Support the show

A Muay Thai class, a sharp twinge in the back, and a then shocking diagnosis—what seemed minor turned out to be a spinal fracture caused by osteopenia, the silent precursor to osteoporosis. Hear how an active 60 year old woman underwent a transformative kyphoplasty procedure and reclaimed her life. This story sheds light on the hidden dangers of bone loss, the importance of fracture prevention, and why prioritizing bone health is essential for women of all ages.Support the show

At age 14, Henry Drury was already a two-time national champion in figure skating with Olympic aspirations. But everything changed when he herniated two discs in his spine, leaving him with chronic pain for years. Listen now to hear his inspiring story of recovery, becoming a professional racecar driver and racing for a cause!Support the show

At just 18 years old, Scott Smith woke up one day unable to walk.Hear how he battled decades of nerve damage, multiple spine surgeries, and countless challenges to compete on the Mr. Universe stage — one of the most prestigious bodybuilding competitions in the world.Support the show

Kerri Webb is a lifelong athlete who defied all odds after sustaining a spinal injury at just eight years old. Despite being warned to stop playing sports to preserve her ability to walk, Kerri refused to quit. She pushed through years of chronic back pain, spondylolisthesis, flare-ups from Lyme disease, and sepsis from meningitis, all while continuing to compete in basketball and triathlons. She overcame every obstacle to become not only an athlete and physical therapist, but a true inspiration for others facing spinal challenges.Support the show

In this episode, we dive into the extraordinary story of Emilya Semchuk, a woman who faced one of the most severe cases of scoliosis her doctors and chiropractors had ever seen. Diagnosed after a routine school screening, Emilya's condition was already at a point where non-surgical options were no longer viable. After years of enduring pain and discomfort, Emilya's journey to reclaim her health and well-being is nothing short of remarkable. Tune in as we discuss her struggles, her triumphs, and how she has found a new lease on life with a stronger spine and a renewed spirit.Support the show

What happens when life knocks you down, not once, but twice? Kasey Sutherlin broke her back twice—first in a cliff-jumping accident at just 19 years old, and then again a decade later while rock climbing. Her struggle with an undiagnosed eating disorder led to low bone density, making her more susceptible to these severe injuries.Despite these life-altering injuries, Kasey's story is one of extraordinary perseverance. She refused to give up her mobility and active lifestyle. Tune in to hear about how she overcame not one but two severe spinal injuries, to today where she is now running 30 to 70 miles per week. Her journey from paralysis to the podium will inspire anyone facing life's toughest challenges.Support the show

As a collegiate field hockey player, Jenna's overtraining resulted in a torn L5-S1 disc. After an eight month journey seeing many providers including doctors, chiropractors, acupuncturist, and physical therapists to relieve her pain, she turned to non surgical treatments.  These included epidurals, SI injection, facet injection, nerve ablation, and a second SI injection.The pain subsided for four years where she returned to running, lifting, hiking, skiing, coaching, playing field hockey and volleyball. But one day while sitting at her desk, a recognizable deep pain seared into her lower back, initiating what would become an additional 2 year journey for relief.An MRI showed a very damaged disc, and  it was time to see a surgeon. Jenna was given the with  choice of a lumbar fusion or disc replacement. After a second opinion, and with the support of both surgeons she decided that the L5-S1 disc replacement was my best option to return to an active lifestyle. At just 26 years old Jenna had the surgery, and in just six weeks of recovery, she began physical therapy to build core strength. Three months after surgery, Jenna was able to increase her activity. She experienced a small setback with SI joint pain, but was managed with a steroid injection. At six months post-op, she was cleared of all restrictions and started jogging, tried snorkeling, hiked, hit golf balls, and skied. Tune in to listen to her inspiring journey of patience, perseverance, and hope. Support the Show.

For Scoliosis Awareness Month, our “Get Back to It” podcast highlights a tale of resilience and perseverance on a Scoliosis Journey. Our host and CEO, Dr. Rita Roy, engages in a candid and eye-opening conversation with Broadway dancer and Spine Health Ambassador, Paige Fraser-Hoffman, who confronted scoliosis at the young age of 13.  Paige shares her journey of overcoming fear and the challenges she faced to fulfill her dream of becoming a professional dancer. Through non-surgical treatments, passion, and dedication, Paige overcame physical adversity and forged an incredibly successful career that led her to the bright lights of Broadway.Whether you or a loved one are dealing with scoliosis, Paige's story is an informative guide on navigating scoliosis with courage. This is a testament to resilience and the pursuit of passion. Tune in to get inspired and learn valuable lessons on how to navigate life's curves.Support the Show.

Join us on this inspiring journey with Jenny Jones, a dedicated nurse and mother whose life was turned upside down by excruciating back pain that began in the early 2000s. Thought to be just normal wear and tear due to an active lifestyle, her struggles took an unexpected turn after a startling fall created worsening symptoms.  This led to crucial spine surgeries that produced transformative outcomes. Jenny shares her remarkable 20-year journey through misdiagnoses, treatment, surgery, and her dedication to reclaiming an active life. With insights from Dr. Rita Roy, this episode not only unravels Jenny's personal triumphs but doubles as an informative resource, shedding light on the evolution of spinal health care and the importance of perseverance, second opinions, and the right medical support. Tune in to this month's inspiring episode as we delve into the challenges and successes of living with and overcoming spinal conditions, offering hope and encouragement to others. Support the Show.

Eric Wood, a former Buffalo Bills NFL player, and Dr. Rita Roy delve into the lesser-seen struggles and rehabilitation efforts in professional sports. Their discussion highlights the pivotal roles played by athletic trainers and medical staff in facilitating athletes' returns from injuries. Wood's own NFL journey, was marked by resilience in the wake of multiple injuries, a Pro Bowl nod, and ultimately a career-ending neck injury. The injury, coinciding with his son's birth, became a catalyst for new beginnings, including advocacy and speaking opportunities. Wood's proactive approach to managing his spinal health and embracing life's changes. This podcast casts a light on the hidden struggles, support systems, and adaptability required from professional athletes, offering inspiration and a deeper understanding of their off-field battles.Support the show

Monte Clair, experienced discomfort in her low back since her college days and throughout her early 30s. She managed her chronic pain through non-operative treatments for many years. But, while packing for a trip in 2011, she unexpectedly threw out her back just as she headed out with some friends for a road trip. She later found out she had ruptured a disc which required surgery. Hear her insightful journey to definitive treatment and living her best life.Support the show

In this month's episode, Dara Strader, a wife, mom, and grandmother, whose back issues began when she was injured at her job over 40 years ago. Dara has had low back pain for most of her adult life and was eventually diagnosed with degenerative disk disease and ultimately, a herniated disk. After years of pain management treatment, surgery ultimately relieved her of her pain and she's now enjoying her exercise classes at the local YMCA 9 months later.Support the show

Naz Kabanni grew up in the United Kingdom where playing soccer was a way of life! He began playing at a competitive level beginning at the tender age of 6. As he grew, and the competitive levels increased, he began having back issues. Through working with physical therapists and athletic trainers, he learned that his hip alignment was off due to one leg being slighter longer than the other. Those mere centimeters difference was enough to create malignment resulting in excruciating lower back pain. As a result of working with athletic trainers, he was able to manage his back pain through non-operative techniques and continue playing soccer all the way through a competitive collegiate career. He credits having to learn at a very young age how to properly take care of his back with preventative measures such as dynamic stretching and myofascial release, or suffer the consequence of injury and getting sidelined. Currently he works at a tech investment firm and enjoys playing soccer in an adult league twice a week. Now, well past his college days, he continues to use the tools given to him as a young boy whenever symptoms show up. Naz's story teaches us the importance of learning one's own individual needs, why flare-ups happen and what to do about it, in order to design a customized lifelong program for spine health.Support the show

Debbie Fox began her journey when she began having back and neck pain following the birth of her second child. As the pain progressed, she felt dismissed, thinking she was probably just depressed. As her pain worsened, Debbie saw a neurosurgeon who diagnosed her with scoliosis. She spent years in treatment and finally saw a complex spine surgeon when her daily life activities were becoming more painful and limiting, Since her surgery, she has had a challenging journey, but considers her surgery a success in spite of everything.Support the show

Tennis Pro Mike Kotz experienced sudden and severe leg pain, leading to a diagnosis of a herniated disc. After a successful microdiscectomy, he swiftly returned to teaching and playing tennis with remarkable post-operative results.Support the show

In this episode of Get Back To It, Sheryl shares her remarkable story. In 8th grade, she was diagnosed with scoliosis after falling off a horse and wore the Milwaukee brace throughout high school. Despite her initial 56-degree curve, she opted for non-operative care over surgery for most of her life. This seemed to manage her pain until her husband fell ill with cancer and eventually required full home care, which took a huge toll on her spine health.At 64 years old, Sheryl's health was changing, and she knew she was running out of time. Her curve was now 100 degrees, and her ribs were almost touching her hips. She was in constant, excruciating pain and couldn't function anymore. Her bone health was worsening with osteopenia, and she was concerned that she wouldn't be a surgical candidate if she waited longer.Ultimately, she found full trust in Dr. Lenke, who performed a 9-hour surgery to fuse her spine with rods and screws. The surgery was incredibly successful. Sheryl is grateful to have more mobility than she expected, lives independently, and even kept up on a recent family vacation to Disneyland. She exudes hope and positivity, honoring her late husband. Her best advice is to talk with other patients in the waiting room and use your energy for personal advocacy and research. Seek and find help, no matter how bad your condition may seem.Support the show

When Air Force Veteran Jack Allen went on a treasured family hiking and camping adventure with his sons, he had to stop in his tracks so often, he couldn't complete the hike because his back hurt so badly. His son, NSHF Research Assistant Brandon, had been studying that exact scenario. He urged his dad to get it checked out with a spine specialist. Jack had been suffering for 17 years with bouts of pain that would flare up and put him in bed for days at a time. This all seemed to stem from an incident in 2006 when he was moving furniture and felt that he had thrown out his back. Now, after a 2-level lumbar fusion, he is back to enjoying a full life, playing sports, hiking, and unrestricted by pain. He wants everyone to know that back pain doesn't have to rob you of days and weeks of your life or limit your enjoyment of spending time with family and loved ones.  Support the show

This insightful and inspiring podcast features Dr. Stephen Hochschuler, a distinguished and pioneering spine specialist with a 40-year history as a world-renowned spine surgeon. In a conversation with Dr. Rita Roy, the CEO of the National Spine Health Foundation, immerse in their dialogue as they explore Dr. Hochschuler's personal journey from a prolific spine surgeon to becoming a spine patient himself.Despite his high pain tolerance, Dr. Hochschuler shares his experience with enduring hip and thigh discomfort over several months. Increasingly, the pain and numbness began to disable him. He shares his decision-making process, from seeking treatment and initially exploring conservative methods utilizing anti-inflammatories and rest. After trying a conservative approach with no relief, he realized that he would need further exploration to discover the cause of his condition and what to do about it, particularly given his age of 81 years.The podcast conversation explores the emotional dimensions of being a patient, where Dr. Hochschuler emphasizes the empathy he gained while understanding patient fears. The significance of a comprehensive approach to spine care is discussed, as Dr. Hochschuler underscores the integration of diverse professionals like psychologists, chiropractors, and physical therapists within patient treatment at Texas Back Institute, one of the world's first comprehensive spine practices, which he co-founded.This conversation sheds light on Dr. Hochschuler's distinctive perspective as both a spine surgeon and a spine patient, unraveling essential aspects of spine care, patient education, and informed decision-making for spinal conditions. The discussion extends to postoperative care, the importance of physical therapy and balance training, the role of yoga and fine motor control in sustaining health, and the broader implications of aging on spine health.Throughout the exchange, Dr. Hochschuler's pride in facilitating patients' recovery and his awareness of the privilege and duty associated with trusted healthcare provision are palpable. The conversation culminates with Dr. Hochschuler praising Dr. Roy's adept interviewing skills and expressing gratitude for the chance to share his insights. As a finale, the speakers encourage listeners to find inspiration and recovery through shared narratives of triumph and expertise within the realm of spine health.Support the show

Join us for an inspiring episode of the Get Back To It Podcast featuring Paul Llewelyn Franklin, a 64-year-old Spinal Champion. Despite enduring a fractured neck as a young teen and undergoing multiple spine surgeries later in life, Paul has accomplished incredible feats. From cycling through 20 countries to walking the Camino trail and the length of Ireland, he has raised funds for charities and inspired many. Recognized as a nominee for the "Most Inspirational Person of the Year Award," Paul's unwavering determination and resilience shine through as he shares his remarkable journey of triumph over adversity. Don't miss this empowering conversation on living life to the fullest.Support the show

Unleash your inner superhero in this heartfelt episode of the "Get Back to It" podcast, where host Dr. Rita Roy teams up with Jennifer Fell and her incredible four-year-old son, Liam—a true spinal champion. Join their extraordinary journey from the fateful ultrasound that revealed Liam's abnormal spinal curve to the daunting challenges that awaited them. Brace yourself for the importance of trusted specialists and invaluable resources, including the Setting Scoliosis Straight Foundation and the National Spine Health Foundation. Liam's happy and adventurous spirit shines through, even as he tackles the heroic task of wearing a brace from the early age of two years old. In addition, Jennifer shares how their family embraces open conversations about scoliosis with their 2 other children. You will be inspired as they prove that resilience and hope can triumph over any obstacle. Let their superhero story ignite your own inner strength.Support the show

In this episode of the "Get Back To It Podcast" host Rita Roy, spoke with Ava, a remarkable 17-year-old spinal champion and dedicated Girl Scout. Diagnosed with scoliosis at her annual check-up four years ago, Ava's parents sought non-invasive approaches to improve her condition and avoid surgery. Tune in as we explore Ava's challenging journey, including her 3.5-year experience wearing a back brace. Prepare to be inspired as Ava's story unfolds on the path to improved spinal health. Ava has created a YouTube series called “Embrace the Brace with Ava” with tips and advice for teens who have Scoliosis. We hope you will check out her channel here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChGKOE2e8DYyj-XKnnqdTHQ?app=desktopSupport the show

In this episode, we are joined by Bobbi Giudicelli who has an incredible story to share. For her whole life, she suffered from back pain and thought it was normal. It wasn't until she started playing tennis in her early 30s that the pain increased and became debilitating. She consulted with a spine specialist and was diagnosed with spondylolisthesis. Over the next 12 years, she had to undergo surgery three times as the condition progressed up her lumbar spine. In addition to the surgeries, Bobbi also made a significant change to her diet. She transitioned to a whole food plant-based and gluten-free diet. She found that the cleaner her diet, the easier her recovery was for each of her surgeries. Now, at 67 years old, she feels better and has more energy than she did in her 40s. She regularly rides horses and plays pickleball for several hours, three to four days a week.Join us as we explore Bobbi's journey, her experience with spondylolisthesis, and how her diet has played a significant role in her recovery and overall well-being.Bobbi Giudicelli is the author of: “Freedom From a Toxic Relationship With Food: A Journey That Will Give You Your Life Back" and founder of "Read The Ingredients Superloafs" which are available at www.rtifoods.com and on Amazon.Support the show

In this episode of the “Get Back To It” podcast, Rita speaks with registered nurse, Suzanne Wurster, who was diagnosed with scoliosis when she was an adolescent. As she grew older, her Scoliosis began to cause her more pain and she began looking for answers in 2017. Her initial doctor suggested physical therapy and SI joint injections.The injections were initially helpful, but their impact quickly faded. Suzanne persisted in seeking more opinions from several other doctors, but none seemed too confident in their suggestions. That was until Suzanne visited a spine specialist, a professional in the field of spine care. This doctor recommended two surgeries, an ALIF interior lumbar fusion and a posterior instrumented fusion. Both surgeries were very successful, and Suzanne is doing very well and living her best life pain free. Her experience taught her not to give up on advocating for yourself and that you need to feel confident with your doctor's treatment plan. Support the show

 It's not often that we get to hear about an actual expert spine surgeon giving an account of his own journey back to spine health from both a patient and a surgeon's perspective! This is the remarkable story of one of our own, Dr. Todd Lanman, a spinal neurosurgeon who practices in Beverly Hills, is affiliated with Cedar-Sinai and UCLA medical centers, and who is a member of our prestigious  Medical and Scientific Board. He is also a Spinal Champion. Support the show

In this episode of the Get Back To It Podcast , Rita Roy had the pleasure of speaking with Pat Schellhorn, a woman who faced life-altering obstacles and came out on the other side stronger and more determined than ever. Pat suffered from severe scoliosis, which led to immobility and a life filled with pain and discomfort. However, Pat refused to let her condition define her and instead, sought out a solution. Join us as Pat shares her journey of undergoing corrective spine surgery and how it has changed her life for the better. She will inspire you with her resilience, determination, and positive outlook on life. Don't miss this amazing episode with Pat Schellhorn.Support the show

In this episode, Rita Roy talks with Aaron Baker, a man who has experienced firsthand the transformative power of disc replacement surgery. Beginning in his late twenties, Aaron struggled with back pain caused from degenerative disc disease and low bone density. Thanks to a successful surgery, though, he is now able to enjoy a wide range of physical activities, from hunting to CrossFit. Aaron shares his story with us and provides insight into what it's like to live with degenerative disc disease, the decision-making process behind disc replacement surgery, and the challenges and triumphs of recovery and rehabilitation. We hope you'll join us as Aaron shares his inspiring journey from chronic pain to active living.Educational programming made possible by a grant from Aesculap through our Corporate Leadership Council.Support the show

Colin MacGregor is a strength and conditioning coach who, on a cold spring morning in 2005, slipped on some ice on the way to his car. He could never have anticipated that at the young age of 30, he would be in a much worse position than the athletes he was helping, and in desperate need of his own rehabilitation. Fortunately, his industry training helped him create a program that got him back to an active lifestyle in record time. Listen to find out how Colin was able to regain his strength and mobility without surgery. Support the show

When Allison's doctor recommended a spinal fusion at age 20, Allison just didn't feel comfortable with the treatment diagnosis. This led to her seeking a second opinion and ultimately had a discectomy, laminectomy, and laminotomy. Allison talks to Dr. Rita Roy about her experience advocating for her health at such a young age in this episode of the "Get Back To It" Podcast.Support the show

Ray Pugsley is a Spinal Champion who has had multiple spine surgeries over the course of almost 30 years. As a life-long athlete and elite runner, Ray was discouraged and frustrated when a pain in his back grew so bad that he could barely stand up straight.  Fortunately, Ray was able to find the right spine treatments to address his pain and was able to return to running.  You can hear his inspiring story on this episode of the "Get Back To It" Podcast!Support the show

In this episode of the “Get Back To It” Podcast, Dr. Rita Roy speaks with Dr. Carrie Holl, a clinical psychologist who woke up one morning in excruciating pain. Carrie knew immediately that this pain was unusual and self-referred herself to a physical therapist. The evaluation with the physical therapist showed that she would need surgical support. Soon thereafter, she had a C five C6 disc replacement. Although it has only been three months since her spine surgery, Carrie is well on her way to a full recovery. Listen as Carrie discusses her experience and how she is now living pain-free.Support the show

National Spine Health Foundation CEO, Dr. Rita Roy, narrates the story of Tom Sheedy, a Spinal Champion who shared his 25 year patient journey with her. As a veteran of the U.S. military, Tom had always been very active, hiking and jogging for his personal enjoyment. It wasn't until his late sixties that he began to experience back pain. Tom underwent two spinal surgeries and his can-do attitude helped him on the road to recovery. Shortly after sharing his spinal champion story with the National Spine Health Foundation, Tom passed away. While we are saddened by his passing, we are inspired by his story and know how much he wanted to share it with others. Take a stretch break and tune in to celebrate Tom's life and his spinal journey.Support the show

NSHF CEO, Dr. Rita Roy, sits down with Spinal Champion and Family Physician, Dr. Mike Perez, to discuss what prompted him to seek treatment for his lower back pain. As an active man who regularly did yoga and someone who was on the other end of treatment for patients with back pain, Dr. Perez was surprised when one day he wasn't able to get out of bed. Tune in to hear how Dr. Perez got back to the people and activities he loves!Support the show

NSHF CEO, Dr. Rita Roy, sits down with Spinal Champion, Nancy Finch. Nancy is an 83 year-old former reporter, lobbyist, and public relations practitioner from Richmond, Virginia who experienced painful scoliosis that inhibited her ability to stand, walk, and even eat normally for years. Luckily, she found a treatment that worked for her despite worries that she wasn't eligible for surgery due to her age. Tune in to hear how Nancy experienced healing and recovery from her scoliosis!Support the show (https://spinehealth.org/donate/)

In the first ‘Get Back To It' podcast episode of 2022, our CEO, Dr. Rita Roy, sits down with Vivian Manning-Schaffel–a successful freelance writer and journalist. Aside from her writing career, Vivian is a mother, wife, and a Spinal Champion. Vivian's story speaks to the challenges of having multiple spine surgeries and managing her own patient expectations of recovery. Tune in to hear Vivian's real story of healing!Support the show (https://spinehealth.org/donate/)

National Spine Health Foundation CEO, Dr. Rita Roy,  narrates the story of Nancy K., a Spinal Champion who experienced painful arthritis of the neck. A sixty-three year old woman who had been having significant problems, off and on, for fifteen years, Nancy's symptoms stemmed from a teenage car accident. Take a stretch break and tune in to hear how Nancy experienced healing and recovery.Support the show (https://spinehealth.org/donate/)

Introducing 'Get Back To It' Minis! These are short stories of hope in 5-minutes or less to be enjoyed in quick breaks from the rhythms of your day. Hopefully, this gets you moving whether in the office, at home, or on-the-go!James McKnight had been a union electrician for 42 years at the time of his spinal injury, enjoying his work on The Golden Gate Bridge. At 60 years old he had experienced back pain and some sciatica from time to time as most construction workers do, but in mid 2015, he was trying to pull some wire out of a conduit when he felt a “pop” in his lower back. How does James find healing and recovery from his injury? Tune in to find out!Support the show (https://spinehealth.org/donate/)

National Spine Health Foundation CEO, Dr. Rita Roy, sits down with Spinal Champion, Tim Heller, to discuss his story of healing and recovery that involved a career pivot at a young age. Starting in 2010 after years of playing sports, dancing, and doing musical theater, Tim woke up one morning unable to move due to his pain. Listen on to hear about Tim's journey to diagnosis, treatment, and healing and recovery from his spinal condition.Support the show (https://spinehealth.org/donate/)

We're celebrating scoliosis warriors this Scoliosis Awareness month! National Spine Health Foundation CEO, Dr. Rita Roy, sits down with Spinal Champion Advocate, Ella T. Ella wore a scoliosis brace throughout middle school for 20 hours a day and was just cleared to stop wearing her brace (in time for the summer and starting high school!) As a young student, there were many things that Ella had to navigate on her own and she gets real about topics such as bullying and mental health. Tune in to hear Ella's hopeful and honest perspective.Ask Ella a Question HereSupport the show (https://spinehealth.org/donate/)

National Spine Health Foundation CEO, Dr. Rita Roy, sits down with Spinal Champion,  Abigail B. to discuss her journey to spinal health. At a young age, Abigail experienced painful symptoms from degenerative disc disease that led to multiple surgeries and prevented her from doing the activities she loved. She was committed to her pain free life in seeking treatment diligently and this resulted in the gift of her first pain free pregnancy. Tune in to hear Abigail's full story!Support the show (https://spinehealth.org/donate/)

CEO, Dr. Rita Roy, sits down with Spinal Champion, Abby W., to discuss her long journey to healing after a car accident. Abby, who had a 39 year career teaching kindergarten,  underwent multiple spine surgeries and treatments before finding  her current pain-free life. Abby also underwent a weight loss journey and today loves the active lifestyle she is able to live. Tune in to hear Abby W.'s real story of healing and recovery.Support the show (https://spinehealth.org/donate/)

 National Spine Health Foundation CEO, Dr. Rita Roy, sits down with a Spinal Champion, Susan G., and her yoga instructor, Sytera Field of SyteraYoga. Susan was able to 'get her life back' with all nonsurgical treatments after experiencing debilitating back spasms and pain. Sytera Field understands pain and debilitation, and therefore creates a gentle atmosphere at her studio that focuses on movement and relationships between parts of the body rather than ‘glorifying the pose.' Dive into Susan G's story to be inspired and learn how yoga can help your spine.Support the show (https://spinehealth.org/donate/)

In the first episode of the second season of the 'Get Back To It' podcast, National Spine Health Foundation CEO, Dr. Rita Roy, sits down with Spinal Champion®, Roni T., to discuss her long journey seeking coccyx (tailbone) treatment. Her condition was unusual and debilitating, but through resilience, Roni was able to get back to the people and activities she loves. Whether you're a spine patient, loved one of a spine patient, or simply a person with a spine, we invite you to step into our community and tune in to Roni's story.Support the show (https://spinehealth.org/donate/)

In the final 'Get Back To It' podcast episode of 2020, Spinal Champion, Rafael R., sits down with our CEO, Dr. Rita Roy, to discuss how he intentionally trained prior to having spine surgery. As a long-time athlete, Rafael had an attitude of resilience that carried him not only through his own surgery and journey back to the things he loved doing (including running half-marathons!), but also led him to encourage other spine patients he met through online support groups. For a final dose of inspiration perfect to kick off 2021, tune in and give Rafael's story a listen!Support the show (https://spinehealth.org/donate/)

In our November episode of the 'Get Back To It' podcast, National Spine Health Foundation CEO, Dr. Rita Roy, sits down with Spinal Champion, Ellen B., to discuss her multiple surgeries. Ellen knew she was interested in a specific artificial disc surgery, but ran into problems with insurance and regulations. She found hope when one surgeon was able to provide her with the treatment she felt she needed.Ellen's most recent spine surgeon was Dr. Todd Lanman of Lanman Spinal Neurosurgery. Dr. Lanman is a member of the National Spine Health Foundation's Medical & Scientific Board and has been named a National Top Spine Specialist. Support the show (https://spinehealth.org/donate/)

When Spinal Champion and 2020 Chair of our We've Got Your Back Gala, Jennifer Marron, was diagnosed with scoliosis, she was told she'd need to wear a back brace for 23 hours a day. Our CEO,  Dr. Rita Roy, sits down with Jennifer to discuss how, at 14 years old,  Jennifer didn't let scoliosis stop her dreams of competing in team sports. Little did she know she'd end up competing on a U.S. national team! As a special bonus, Rita and Jennifer discuss all things gala. Be sure to tune in to the virtual gala on Friday, November 6 at 7pm EST. Discover more about this free patient education celebration here and click here to browse our silent auction items today!Support the show (https://spinehealth.org/donate/)

Did you know that September is Pain Awareness Month? Our CEO, Dr. Rita Roy, sat down with Rebecca Gillett--one of our friends and collaborators over at the Arthritis Foundation. Rebecca lives with Rheumatoid Arthritis and is also a Spinal Champion. She's championed multiple surgeries in order to fight for the pain-free and active lifestyle she has. As they like to say over at the Arthritis Foundation, Rebecca likes to "Live Yes!" Rebecca also offers us practical advice for seeking multiple opinions when pursuing spinal treatment. Make sure to tune in today! We know you'll love hearing Rebecca's real story of healing and recovery.Support the show (https://spinehealth.org/donate/)