A Lifelong Friendship and a Life-Changing Surgery
01.05.2026
Rob’s Journey to Relief in Greensboro
For most people, the story of a herniated disc centers on pain, frustration, and the search for answers. For Rob, a Raleigh native with deep Greensboro ties, his journey included all of that, along with something few patients experience. His neurosurgeon was the best friend he met in third grade.
What began as manageable neck discomfort gradually became debilitating. For nearly two years, Rob pursued every nonsurgical option available, including physical therapy and steroid injections. Despite those efforts, his condition continued to worsen.
Almost exactly one year ago, Rob woke up in excruciating pain.
“I could not function,” he shared. “I had first-degree burns on my neck from using a heating pad because heat was the only sensation that could even begin to counterbalance the pain.”
Searching for the Right Answer
After consulting with an orthopedist who recommended spinal fusion surgery, Rob hesitated. Something did not sit right. He knew a neurosurgeon he trusted deeply and decided to ask for another opinion.
“I thought, wait a minute, I have a neurosurgeon as my lifelong best friend,” Rob said. “So I called DJ. Ninety percent of our conversations are about sports, family, or life. I had never asked him for professional advice.”
When neurosurgeon Dr. David Jones reviewed Rob’s imaging, he explained that Rob had a herniated disc in his cervical spine that was compressing a nerve. Dr. Jones took time to walk Rob through the science behind his symptoms and explained why a fusion was not necessary in his case.
Instead, he recommended a cervical foraminotomy, a minimally invasive procedure designed to relieve nerve compression without fusing the spine or limiting mobility.
“He explained exactly why this approach made more sense for my situation,” Rob said. “I was awestruck hearing my best friend’s deep well of medical knowledge on display. That clarity changed everything.”
Understanding the Surgery
A cervical foraminotomy focuses on creating more space for the affected nerve as it exits the spine. Through a small incision, the surgeon carefully removes the portion of disc material and surrounding tissue that is compressing the nerve. By addressing the source of pressure directly, the procedure relieves pain while preserving normal neck motion.
Because this surgery does not involve fusion, recovery is often faster and mobility is maintained.
For Rob, that distinction mattered.
The Surgery That Changed Everything
On the day of surgery, Rob felt confident and supported. Dr. Jones assembled a specialized care team and ensured every step of the process was handled with precision and attention.
“He absolutely rolled out the red carpet,” Rob said. “I felt completely taken care of.”
When Rob woke up, the results were immediate.
“The pain that brought me to surgery was gone,” he said. “Aside from normal postoperative soreness, I knew right away it had worked.”
Follow-up care included physical therapy and routine check-ins to ensure proper healing, including one memorable visit outside the arena just before an NC State women’s basketball game, when Dr. Jones made sure Rob’s recovery was progressing as expected.
Nearly one year later, Rob’s daily pain level stays around a one or two. Before surgery, it hovered at a nine.
“He fixed the problem,” Rob said. “I could not have lived my life the way things were.”
Life After Surgery
Today, Rob enjoys time with his wife and three stepchildren, works as a lobbyist, and lives without the constant fear of debilitating neck pain. While some mild stiffness remains from years of nerve irritation, it is nothing compared to what he experienced before surgery.
“When you see your best friend step into professional mode and realize how skilled he truly is, it is incredible,” Rob said. “He gave me my life back. Now we can continue tailgating together at Wolfpack football games.”
Expert Spine Care for Greensboro and the Triad
Rob’s story highlights the importance of receiving the right diagnosis and the right treatment, not simply the most aggressive option.
Carolina NeuroSurgery and Spine Associates proudly serves Greensboro and the greater Triad with experienced neurosurgeons who specialize in advanced, patient-centered spine care.
If neck pain, nerve pain, or a herniated disc is affecting your quality of life, a second opinion can make all the difference.
Schedule an Appointment
Online scheduling is available now. Take the next step toward relief.
Schedule online at cnsa.com/request-an-appointment
Or
call (336) 272-4578
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