• Shortest Hospital Stays so you can get back to your life in Queens.

  • Minimally Invasive Techniques focused on safety, comfort, and faster recovery.

  • Unmatched Patient Outcomes with consistently low complication rates.

  • Research-Driven Care bringing global innovation to local communities.

  • Comprehensive Spine Solutions from advanced endoscopy to full reconstructions.

  • Delivering Independence as quickly and safely as possible.

Visit the Gerling Institute for Expert Care and Innovative Treatments

Queens

80-02 Kew Gardens Rd
Kew Gardens, NY 11415

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(212) 882-1110
Directions (opens in a new tab)

Hours:

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

Top Spine Surgeon in Queens Restoring Life & Function

At Gerling Spine Care and Research Institute, we understand that for Queens families, being active, independent, and pain-free isn’t a luxury—it’s essential. That’s why we focus on the most effective, least invasive care options available at every stage. Whether you're commuting, caregiving, or just trying to live pain-free, we’re here to help you heal and get back to what matters most.

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 Experience, Thousands of Lives Improved

Board-Certified Spine Specialist

Certified by the American Board of Orthopedic Surgery since 2008, with recertification for advanced expertise.

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Pioneered Minimally Invasive Surgery

Helped lead the way in endoscopic spine techniques and awake spinal fusions in the U.S.

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Trained by Industry Legends

Mentored by Dr. Henry Bohlman, a pioneer in spine surgery, during a residency at Case Western Reserve.

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Exceptionally Low Complication Rates

Our high standards and surgical precision result in safer procedures and better recoveries.

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Leader in Spine Research

Actively shaping the next generation of spine care through leadership in the Cervical Spine Research Society.

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Decades of Transformative Results

With over 15 years of experience, Dr. Gerling has restored mobility and quality of life for thousands of patients.

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Global Educator and Mentor

Shares his expertise with surgeons from around the world, elevating care everywhere—starting here in Queens.

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Dr. Michael Gerling, MD
Doctor credentials Medical Degree Institution
Doctor credentials Contributor through research publications
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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 pair leading-edge biologic therapies with personalized care, offering non-surgical solutions that work—right here in your neighborhood.

Healing at the Cellular Level

Activates your body’s natural ability to repair tissue and restore balance through precision biologic care.

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Avoid Surgery, Restore Naturally

Offers alternatives to traditional spine surgery using powerful regenerative therapies for real relief.

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Cutting-Edge Treatments That Work

Uses PRP, stem cells, and other innovative biologics to reduce inflammation and promote healing.

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Repair Without Replacement

Treats the source of pain at its root—without fusions, implants, or invasive procedures whenever possible.

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Revolutionizing Recovery

Designed for real people, our approach delivers better outcomes with less downtime and long-term results.

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Thought Leadership

Expert Insight, Education, and Innovation From Queens’ Leading Spine Specialists

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

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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.

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

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

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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

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

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

If you're living with neck pain or nerve compression, ACDF can provide the relief and stability you need to live fully again. Our Queens-based orthopedic spine surgeons use minimally invasive approaches to decompress nerves, remove damaged discs, and stabilize your spine. With expert surgical care and regenerative support, we help you move forward with less pain—and more freedom.

Learn More About ACDF

Lumbar Fusions Building a Stronger Foundation for Your Spine

Lumbar fusion is often the best option when spinal instability or disc degeneration interferes with daily life. In Queens, where our patients lead active lives with work and family responsibilities, we offer minimally invasive lumbar fusion to restore stability, reduce pain, and shorten recovery time. Our tailored care approach ensures long-lasting results with as little disruption to your life as possible.

Learn More About Lumbar Fusions

Endoscopic Procedures Precision Treatment With Minimal Downtime

Endoscopic spine surgery offers big results through small incisions. We treat herniated discs, spinal stenosis, and nerve compression using advanced tools and imaging, minimizing tissue damage and speeding up recovery. Queens patients trust us for care that’s effective, local, and designed to get you back to work, family, and everyday movement quickly and safely.

Learn More About Endoscopic Procedures

The Full Spectrum of Care

From non-invasive therapies to complex reconstructions, we offer a full range of spine care options in Queens—delivered with expertise, compassion, and respect for your time and goals.

Surgical Procedures

Our surgeons specialize in refined, evidence-based techniques to restore spinal function, reduce pain, and help you reclaim your daily rhythm.

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Minimally Invasive Procedures

We use state-of-the-art tools to provide faster-healing, low-impact procedures tailored to your diagnosis and lifestyle.

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Regenerative

Biologic treatments like PRP and stem cell injections support your body’s ability to recover naturally—offering long-term solutions without surgery.

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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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