Give a phone call at NY (212) 882-1110 Give a phone call at NJ (201) 201-7246
Schedule Appointment (opens in a new tab)

  • Shortest Hospital Stays so you can get back to your life on Staten Island.

  • Minimally Invasive Techniques prioritizing safety, comfort, and faster healing.

  • Unmatched Patient Outcomes with extremely low rates of complications.

  • Research-Driven Care blending innovation with real-world results.

  • Comprehensive Spine Solutions from targeted endoscopy to advanced reconstructions.

  • Delivering Independence as quickly and carefully as possible.

Visit the Gerling Institute for Expert Care and Innovative Treatments

Staten Island

1497 Richmond Rd 
Staten Island, NY 10304

(opens in a new tab)

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

Hours:

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

Top Spine Surgeon on Staten Island Restoring Life & Function

At Gerling Spine Care and Research Institute, we understand that for Staten Islanders, life moves with purpose—whether you're working hard, raising a family, or enjoying well-earned downtime. That’s why we deliver the most effective, least invasive care at every stage of treatment. Our goal is to restore your mobility, reduce pain, and get you back to what matters most—without unnecessary delays or disruption.

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.”

Background Texture
Dr. Michael Gerling, MD

Dr. Michael Gerling

Decades of Experience, Thousands of Lives Renewed

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.

Background Texture

Pioneered Minimally Invasive Surgery

An early adopter of awake spinal fusions and endoscopic procedures in the U.S.

Background Texture

Trained by Industry Legends

Studied under Dr. Henry Bohlman, one of the founding figures of modern spine surgery.

Background Texture

Exceptionally Low Complication Rates

Known for delivering precise surgical outcomes with fewer risks and shorter recovery.

Background Texture

Leader in Spine Research

As Chair of Education at the Cervical Spine Research Society, Dr. Gerling is helping shape the future of spine care.

Background Texture

Decades of Transformative Results

With over 15 years of focused expertise, Dr. Gerling has helped thousands of patients regain mobility and quality of life.

Background Texture

Global Educator and Mentor

Teaches advanced spinal techniques to surgeons around the world while delivering world-class care here in Staten Island.

Background Texture
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 offer regenerative treatments that restore spinal health naturally—without surgery whenever possible.

The Miracle of Restorative Medicine

Healing at the Cellular Level

Supports your body’s own healing abilities through targeted biologic therapies that rebuild and repair tissue.

Background Texture

Avoid Surgery, Restore Naturally

For many patients, our non-surgical therapies are all that’s needed to eliminate pain and restore movement.

Background Texture

Cutting-Edge Treatments That Work

We use evidence-based therapies like PRP and stem cells to reduce inflammation and improve spinal function.

Background Texture

Repair Without Replacement

By addressing the underlying issue, we help patients recover strength and stability without invasive hardware.

Background Texture

Revolutionizing Recovery

Designed with your lifestyle in mind, our approach delivers faster healing and lasting relief through science-backed care.

Background Texture

Thought Leadership

Insights, Talks, and Articles From Staten Island’s 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

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

Watch a video about Dr. Ria, Patient
Watch a video about Carol, Patient

Conditions Treated From Pain to Possibility

Neck

View All Neck Conditions

Back

View All Back Conditions
tall building
Watch video

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

If neck pain or nerve compression is limiting your daily routine, ACDF offers a reliable solution. Our Staten Island spine surgeons perform this procedure using minimally invasive methods to relieve pressure, stabilize the spine, and restore function. From the initial consultation to full recovery, we tailor your care to ensure the safest, smoothest return to life—at home, at work, and in motion.

Learn More About ACDF

Conditions treated by ACDF: Herniated Discs Degenerative Disc Disease Spinal Stenosis Cervical Myelopathy
Watch video

Lumbar Fusions Building a Stronger Foundation for Your Spine

Lower back issues like spinal instability and degenerative disc disease can make simple tasks feel overwhelming. Lumbar fusion can provide lasting relief and improved mobility. Our Staten Island spine surgeons specialize in minimally invasive fusion techniques that reduce pain, minimize disruption, and get you back on your feet with confidence.

Learn More About Lumbar Fusions

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

Endoscopic Procedures Precision Treatment With Minimal Downtime

For patients seeking relief without major surgery, endoscopic spine procedures offer a highly effective solution. Using advanced visualization and micro-incisions, we treat herniated discs, nerve compression, and spinal stenosis with less trauma and faster recovery. Staten Islanders count on us for care that respects their time, lifestyle, and goals.

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 early intervention to advanced surgical solutions, we offer a complete range of spine care options—delivered with compassion, precision, and convenience for Staten Island residents.

Surgical Procedures

Our board-certified spine surgeons perform highly effective surgical interventions with a focus on safety, precision, and reduced recovery time.

Surgical Procedures media

Minimally Invasive Procedures

With cutting-edge tools and refined techniques, we provide procedures that relieve pain and restore mobility—without the extended downtime of traditional surgery.

Minimally Invasive Procedures media

Regenerative

We use advanced biologic therapies to promote natural healing, reduce inflammation, and strengthen spinal function from the inside out.

Regenerative media

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.

Schedule Appointment (opens in a new tab)
Contact us media
Accessibility: If you are vision-impaired or have some other impairment covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act or a similar law, and you wish to discuss potential accommodations related to using this website, please contact our Accessibility Manager at (212) 882-1110.
Contact Us