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  • Shortest Hospital Stays so you can move forward sooner.

  • Minimally Invasive Techniques maximizing safety with less downtime.

  • Unmatched Patient Outcomes with minimal rate of complications.

  • Research-Driven Care shaping the future of spine health.

  • Comprehensive Spine Solutions advanced endoscopy to full-scale reconstructions.

  • Delivering Independence as fast as possible.

Top Spine Surgeon in NJ Restoring Life & Function

We believe true recovery is about more than just reducing pain - it’s about restoring function and getting you back to the things you love. At Gerling Spine Care and Research Institute, our NJ spine specialists deliver leading treatments, offering the most effective, least invasive care at every stage with minimal disruption to your life.

Gerling Spinecare & 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 Restored

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

Board-Certified Spine Specialist

Certified since 2008 by the American Board of Orthopedic Surgery, reaffirming expertise through recertification in 2018.

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Pioneered Minimally Invasive Surgery

Among the first in the U.S. to introduce awake spinal fusions and endoscopic decompressions.

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Trained by Industry Legends

Mentored by Henry Bohlman, a foundational figure in modern spinal surgery at Case Western Reserve.

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Exceptionally Low Complication Rates

Precision-driven surgical techniques ensure safer procedures, lower risks, and accelerated recovery.

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Leader in Spine Research

A key educator in spinal health, leading advancements as Chair of Education for the Cervical Spine Research Society.

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Decades of Transformative Results

Over 15 years of refining techniques and restoring mobility for thousands of spine patients worldwide.

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Global Educator and Mentor

Influences the next generation of surgeons through international training in the latest spinal surgical methods.

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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

Gerling Spine Care and Research Institute transforms spine treatment through innovative research, delivering the least invasive and most effective care.

The Miracle of Restorative Medicine

Healing at the Cellular Level

Enhances your body’s ability to heal itself by regenerating damaged tissues and improving function.

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Avoid Surgery, Restore Naturally

Provides breakthrough non-surgical therapies that help patients heal without invasive spine procedures.

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Cutting-Edge Treatments That Work

Leverages the latest in biologic medicine, including PRP and stem cell therapies, for superior recovery.

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Repair Without Replacement

Strengthens and stabilizes the spine by targeting the underlying issue—without the need for implants or fusion.

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Revolutionizing Recovery

Combines scientific innovation with proven techniques to deliver faster, longer-lasting healing.

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Thought Leadership

A Selection of Articles, Talks, and Ideas From Some of the Best Spine Surgeons in NJ

Here’s what happens to your back and sleep if you snooze on the couch for more than two nights in a row (opens in a new tab)

It’s tempting to doze off on your couch while watching tv, but is it okay for your sleep? We ask experts

Article

This Everyday Habit Is Harming Your Heart Health and Internal Organs—and You May Be Doing It Right Now (opens in a new tab)

Like, literally as you're reading this.

Article

The Best Mattresses For Sciatica, Backed By Expert Insights (opens in a new tab)

Many of the best mattresses for back pain are on sale right now, including our best overall pick, the Saatva Classic. Keep reading for more deals on beds for back pain.

Article

Ankylosing Spondylitis Surgery: What You Should Know (opens in a new tab)

Learn when and why you might need surgery for ankylosing spondylitis.

Article

Spine Industry Would Benefit from Simplification and Advancement (opens in a new tab)

Zorica Buser, Ph.D., started her talk at the Annual Meeting of the North American Spine Society (NASS) with an important disclosure: “I believe that orthobiologics matter.”

Podcast

The best pain-relieving creams 
of 2025, according to pain management experts (opens in a new tab)

We asked medical experts for their tips on choosing the best pain relieving creams, gels, roll-ons and rubs that help manage pain.

Article

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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Watch a video about Carol, Patient

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) Precision Spine Surgery for Neck Pain and Nerve Relief

ACDF is a highly effective procedure for alleviating nerve compression and restoring spinal stability in the cervical region. By removing damaged discs and reinforcing the spine, we help patients regain mobility and reduce chronic pain. Our NJ orthopedic spinal surgeons prioritize minimally invasive approaches to ensure precision, safety, and faster recovery. With expertise in advanced surgery and regenerative treatments, we focus on personalized care to help you feel your very best.

Learn More About ACDF

Conditions treated by ACDF: Herniated Discs Degenerative Disc Disease Spinal Stenosis Cervical Myelopathy
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Lumbar Fusions Stabilizing the Spine for Long-Term Function

When spinal instability or degeneration affects the lower back, lumbar fusion provides a reliable solution to strengthen the affected area and restore function. By fusing vertebrae, this procedure relieves pain and enhances long-term stability. Our NJ spine doctors specialize in minimally invasive fusion techniques, reducing healing time and post-surgical discomfort. Whether you need intervention for chronic pain or post-injury support, we provide comprehensive care designed to keep you active and pain-free.

Learn More About Lumbar Fusions

Conditions treated by lumbar fusions: Degenerative Disc Disease Herniated Discs Spinal Stenosis Spondylolisthesis Spinal Fractures

The Full Spectrum of Care

From minimally invasive procedures to regenerative therapies and advanced surgery, we provide a holistic approach to spine health—tailoring each treatment to maximize healing and mobility.

Surgical Procedures

With a focus on precision and patient safety, our orthopedic surgeons in NJ perform advanced procedures that restore function, stabilize the spine, and support long-term recovery.

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Minimally Invasive Procedures

Our minimally invasive treatments offer targeted relief for spine conditions, utilizing leading-edge techniques to preserve mobility, accelerate recovery, and reduce post-procedure discomfort.

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Regenerative

By integrating regenerative medicine into spine care, we enhance the body’s ability to heal itself—helping patients recover faster and maintain long-term spinal health.

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Our Locations

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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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