SALISBURY – Novant Health Orthopedics & Sports Medicine – Salisbury and its Spine Center of Excellence program has allowed David Brown, a longtime resident of Salisbury, to finally live pain-free for the first time in 13 years.

Brown’s pain started from hard work. He works as a farmer and a horse trainer, and has created a lot of wear and tear on his body, he explained.

“I couldn’t move my neck. I couldn’t raise my arms up over my shoulders. And at times, I could barely walk,” he said.

Brown knew it was time to visit a specialist when the pain became unbearable.

“Dr. (Gene) Eline told me that I was a broken man but that he would fix me, and he has never quit on me,” he said.

“Fixing” Brown required neck and lower back surgery, but he said he has never felt better.

“I haven’t even had to do rehabilitation. My quality of life has skyrocketed since receiving the last surgery in April, and I’m finally able to do things I haven’t been able to do in years,” he said.

When asked about his overall experience, Brown said he can never thank God and Dr. Eline enough for the help they have given.

“I have the most respect for that man,” he said. “He’s been there  for me, and I have so much trust in him and the staff.”

Eline, the spine surgeon, said the clinic’s Spine Center of Excellence program has grown significantly since it began over the last two years.

“Our team is made up of a spine surgeon and two physical medicine and rehabilitation physicians, who provide both nonsurgical care and spinal injections,” said Eline.

The clinic also has physician assistants who have rotated with the team of physicians to learn protocols and help guide patients through their recovery with conservative treatments or surgery when necessary.

“Our goal is to provide access to the right specialist when the patient needs them, not three months from now,” said Eline.

“We often see patients who are in pain and very apprehensive when they first visit our office. They are convinced that surgery is their only option, but not everyone needs surgery,” said Eline. “Treatments vary case by case and are individualized to each patient’s condition.”

Eline said  that the team encourages those struggling with a spinal condition to come to the office for an evaluation so they can find a treatment program that will work the best with their lifestyles and busy schedules.

Novant Health Orthopedics & Sports Medicine – Salisbury offers comprehensive care for all orthopedic conditions and sports injuries that cause pain or prevent patients from being as active as they would like. The clinic’s services range from fracture care, casting, arthritis care, robotic-assisted total joint replacement, arthroscopy, minimally invasive rotator cuff repair, hand surgery, diabetic foot care and physical therapy in addition to spine care.

The clinic also features a comprehensive sports medicine program with physicians and athletic trainers who provide care to athletes at local high schools and colleges.

“We have always felt this area desires and needed a comprehensive spine center, and we are excited to promote this,” said Dr. Chip Comadoll, market leader for Rowan County.

The Spine Center offers several board-certified providers, including Eline who specializes in spine surgery, and Drs. Jed Robinson and Jeff Zeckser who both specialize in physical medicine and rehabilitation. The clinic is also staffed by three physician assistants: Douglas Carroll, Kenneth Clark and Graylan Byrd.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 704-216-5633.