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A Paradigm Shift in Orthopedic Medicine

While surgery remains a vital and often life-changing solution, it can come with longer recovery times and inherent risks—making it essential to consider all available options. Conventional orthopedic care has long followed a rigid progression: conservative therapy, medication, steroid injections, and—if all else fails—surgery. While surgical solutions are essential in many cases, advances in regenerative medicine are expanding the toolkit—offering patients more choices with potentially shorter recovery times. Dr. Gerling’s approach breaks this mold. By integrating cutting-edge regenerative therapies, he provides patients with powerful alternatives to repair damaged joints, ligaments, and discs—often without surgery.

These innovations include:

  • Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP)
  • Stem Cells (autologous or donor-derived)
  • Exosomes and other biologic agents that amplify healingThis “middle tier” of care—between physical therapy and surgery—is revolutionizing how we treat degeneration and injury, offering real hope for earlier, safer, and more effective interventions.
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Dr. Michael Gerling examining a female patient

Meet Dr. Michael Gerling Founder & Chief Surgeon, The Gerling Institute

Dr. Michael Gerling is a globally recognized orthopedic and spinal surgeon known for pioneering work in minimally invasive and endoscopic spine surgery. His techniques—ranging from ultra-precise discectomies to motion-preserving reconstructions—enable faster recovery, dramatically lower complication rates, and minimal disruption to patients’ lives.

“These surgeries have transformed care—what used to require a hospital stay can now be done as a same-day outpatient procedure, often with incisions smaller than half an inch.”
– Dr. Michael Gerling

Although Dr. Gerling still performs advanced reconstructive surgeries when necessary, his philosophy is straightforward: surgery should be a last resort—not the default.

The Gerling Institute Advantage: Where Innovation Meets Individualized Care

Years ago, Dr. Gerling envisioned a center of excellence that would combine the best of Western surgical innovation with regenerative biology, offering a full continuum of care. Today, the Gerling Institute delivers on that vision, blending:

  • Leading-edge diagnostics
  • Minimally invasive interventions
  • Regenerative therapies
  • Personalized, holistic treatment plans

Thanks to the Institute’s dedicated research division built by Zorica Buser, PhD, an internationally respected authority in regenerative spine care and former employee of the practice, patients gain access to ongoing clinical trials and the latest breakthroughs in biologic medicine.

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Spotlight on Expertise: A Global Leader in Spine Surgery

  • Pioneer in Endoscopic Spine Surgery: Dr. Gerling performs hundreds of these advanced procedures annually, achieving excellent outcomes with less pain, lower narcotic use, and faster returns to activity.
  • Respected Global Educator & Researcher: His academic leadership includes serving as:
    • Past President, Federation of Spine Associations (FOSA)
    • Past President, Brooklyn Orthopedic Society
    • Chairman of Education and Board Member, Cervical Spine Research Society (CSRS)
    • Committee Member and Multiple Course Founder, AAOS, NASS, LSRS
    • Prolific Contributor to Scientific Advancement: Dr. Gerling has authored over 40 peer-reviewed publications, shaping modern spine care worldwide.
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Holistic, Human-Centered Healing

Beyond technical mastery, Dr. Gerling is known for the trust and connection he fosters with every patient. His care model is profoundly personalized and comprehensive, addressing the physical condition and the emotional, mental, and even spiritual dimensions of healing.

“Regenerative medicine is transforming spine care. We can often restore spinal health without invasive procedures by harnessing the body’s natural healing potential—through stem cells, PRP, and exosomes. It’s a sophisticated, natural approach to long-term wellness.”
– Dr. Michael Gerling

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Why Choose the Gerling Institute?

  • Minimally Invasive Expertise: Hundreds of spine procedures yearly with exceptional recovery outcomes.
  • Cutting-Edge Regenerative Therapies: Non-surgical treatments that heal, restore, and rejuvenate.
  • Academic and Surgical Leadership: Trusted by global peers, patients, and professional societies.
  • Compassionate, Patient-First Philosophy: Where education, empowerment, and empathy come first.

Director of Musculoskeletal Care at Bayonne Medical Center

As of 2025, Dr. Gerling has been appointed Director of Musculoskeletal Care at Bayonne Medical Center. His leadership and expertise are helping shape the future of spinal care and orthopedics, and he will be accepting appointments at this location soon.

Experience a New Standard in Spine and Joint Care

Dr. Michael Gerling and the Gerling Institute are redefining orthopedic care—offering powerful alternatives to surgery and a clear path to recovery for patients seeking to move beyond pain and limitation.

Whether you’re a patient, provider, or referring physician, discover how advanced, regenerative orthopedic care can change lives.

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We're here to help you move forward.

Relief starts with quality orthopedic care. Contact us today to take the next step toward a more active, pain-free life.

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