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  • Shortest Hospital Stays so you can get back to life in Clifton fast.

  • Minimally Invasive Techniques focused on precision, comfort, and safer healing.

  • Unmatched Patient Outcomes with remarkably low complication rates.

  • Research-Driven Care bringing next-generation treatments to New Jersey.

  • Comprehensive Spine Solutions from advanced endoscopy to complex reconstructions.

  • Delivering Independence as quickly and reliably as possible.

Visit the Gerling Institute for Expert Care and Innovative Treatments

Clifton

1117 US-46, Suite 202
Clifton, NJ 07013

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(201) 201-7246  (PAIN)
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Hours:

 8AM–5 PM Monday - Friday  
Closed - Saturday & Sunday 

Top Spine Surgeon in Clifton, NJ Restoring Life & Function

At Gerling Spine Care and Research Institute, we know Clifton families lead full, active lives—and when back or neck pain interferes, you need solutions that work without unnecessary downtime. That’s why we offer the most effective, least invasive spine care available. Whether you’re commuting, caring for loved ones, or simply staying active, our goal is to help you move freely, safely, and confidently again.

Gerling Spine Care & Research Institute Overview

Patient Testimonials

  • “The best decision I’ve ever made.”

  • “Life-changing care, start to finish.”

  • “I can walk pain-free again.”

  • “Seamless surgery. Zero complications.”

  • “Pain-free for the first time in years.”

  • “He gave me my life back.”

  • “I was back to work in days.”

  • “He made the impossible, possible.”

  • “Trusted him completely—and I’m so glad.”

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Dr. Michael Gerling, MD

Dr. Michael Gerling

Decades of Expertise, Thousands of Lives Transformed

Learn More About Dr. Gerling Watch: Meet Dr. Gerling

Board-Certified Spine Specialist

Certified by the American Board of Orthopedic Surgery since 2008, with recertification in 2018 for continued excellence.

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Pioneered Minimally Invasive Surgery

Among the first U.S. surgeons to perform awake spinal fusions and endoscopic decompression techniques.

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Trained by Industry Legends

Completed surgical training under spine pioneer Dr. Henry Bohlman at Case Western Reserve University.

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Exceptionally Low Complication Rates

Recognized for surgical precision and a track record of safer outcomes and faster recoveries.

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Leader in Spine Research

As Chair of Education for the Cervical Spine Research Society, Dr. Gerling continues to shape modern spinal care.

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Decades of Transformative Results

Over 15 years of clinical excellence, with thousands of patients regaining movement and quality of life.

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Global Educator and Mentor

Provides hands-on training to international surgeons in the latest, least invasive techniques—right from New Jersey.

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Dr. Michael Gerling, MD
Doctor credentials Medical Degree Institution
Doctor credentials Contributor through research publications
Doctor credentials Member
Doctor credentials Fellowship Institution
Doctor credentials Chairman of Education and Board Member
Doctor credentials Residency Institution
Doctor credentials Participant in global spine research
Doctor credentials Member and Contributor
Doctor credentials Board Certified since 2008
Doctor credentials Contributor
Doctor credentials Past President
Doctor credentials Contributor through research publications

Restorative Medicine

At Gerling Spine Care and Research Institute, we believe in restoring spinal health from the inside out, using advanced regenerative therapies that help the body heal naturally.

The Miracle of Restorative Medicine

Healing at the Cellular Level

Stimulates your body’s natural repair systems using targeted biologic medicine for real, lasting relief.

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Avoid Surgery, Restore Naturally

Non-surgical treatment options can often resolve pain and restore mobility—no incisions required.

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Cutting-Edge Treatments That Work

We use biologics like PRP and stem cells to reduce pain, inflammation, and recovery time.

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Repair Without Replacement

Focuses on healing and strengthening your spine without hardware or fusions, whenever possible.

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Revolutionizing Recovery

Blends science and compassion to help our patients return to work, family, and daily life—faster.

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Thought Leadership

Expertise, Research, and Innovation From Clifton’s Leading Spine Specialists

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Patient Testimonials

The staff are all professional, compassionate, and supportive from the moment I walked through the door.

After surgery, I was frequently contacted by Darielle to check on me and ease my concerns. Dr. Gerling is a masterful surgeon and deserves only good praises. I appreciate this experience and highly recommend!

Chris Lee

Having my fusion lumbar L4-5, S1 was the best decision I’ve made!

I am now 6 weeks post-op and feel great! I started walking 1 mile two weeks post-op and it took me 52 min. I am down to 19 min and feeling stronger every day. Dr. Gerling has...

Oscar Pellot

Dr. Gerling and his staff are amazing! Dr. Gerling has completely changed my life for the better.

After 2 major surgeries, I am currently on the mend and looking forward to finally being myself again! He and his staff are easy to talk to and unlike other places I have been, they really give 100% transparency and will do anything in their power to help you. Thank you for all that you have done for me. I will be forever grateful.

John Delutis

Perfect experience with no issues.

I also have better range of motion furthermore there was no need for me to take painkillers after the operation. Great job performed I recommend services to anyone needing it.

Ecem Akturk

I had my neck surgery back in November and I can already feel a difference in my everyday life.

The staff here is so sweet and has always made me feel comfortable too! I would definitely recommend this place to anyone with any kind of pain.

B Lop

Thank you Dr. Michael Gerling for doing the surgery! I was in need of cervical C5-6, you have done a remarkable job. Without this surgery, I wouldn’t be back on the workforce. The pain and numbness are gone.

Again, thanks for all you’ve done including going through detailed explanations on the MRI, CT-SCAN, X-ray, putting my doubt at ease. Also, thanks to your staff, they were greatly remarkable. SPECIAL THANKS and HUGS to your front desk staff as well.

Donna Milley

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Conditions Treated From Pain to Possibility

Neck

View All Neck Conditions

Back

View All Back Conditions
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Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion (ACDF) Relieving Nerve Pressure, Restoring Stability to Your Neck

ACDF relieves pressure on spinal nerves and restores neck stability through a minimally invasive approach. Our Clifton-based spine surgeons use the latest techniques to reduce pain, protect mobility, and speed up healing. From the first visit to full recovery, we tailor every step of your care to ensure the best outcome—with minimal disruption to your lifestyle.

Learn More About ACDF

Conditions treated by ACDF: Herniated Discs Degenerative Disc Disease Spinal Stenosis Cervical Myelopathy
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Lumbar Fusions Building a Stronger Foundation for Your Spine

Lower back pain caused by disc degeneration or instability can make even daily movement difficult. Lumbar fusion strengthens and stabilizes the spine, restoring balance and relieving pain. Our Clifton spine surgeons use minimally invasive techniques that allow for faster recovery and long-term results—so you can stay active, mobile, and independent.

Learn More About Lumbar Fusions

Conditions treated by lumbar fusions: Degenerative Disc Disease Herniated Discs Spinal Stenosis Spondylolisthesis Spinal Fractures
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Endoscopic Procedures Precision Treatment With Minimal Downtime

For patients in Clifton seeking surgical relief with minimal impact, endoscopic spine procedures are a game-changer. We treat herniated discs, nerve compression, and spinal stenosis using small incisions and high-definition imaging. This approach allows for safer surgeries, less pain, and quicker recovery—without compromising results.

Learn More About Endoscopic Procedures

Endoscopic procedures include: Lumbar Discectomy Lumbar Fusions Laminectomy Spinal Stenosis Surgery SI Joint Fusion

The Full Spectrum of Care

From diagnostics to advanced procedures, we provide personalized spine care in Clifton that meets your needs—delivered with integrity, compassion, and precision.

Surgical Procedures

Our orthopedic spine surgeons perform safe, effective procedures using refined techniques to restore function and relieve pain.

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Minimally Invasive Procedures

We offer forward-thinking, low-impact interventions that accelerate healing and protect your active lifestyle.

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Regenerative

Using biologics like platelet-rich plasma and stem cells, we help your body heal itself—naturally and efficiently.

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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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