Marc Salis

Before ever seeing Dr. Francis Lovecchio, I had numerous consultations with various spine surgeons, many epidural injections, two laminectomies, and even a trial of a spinal cord stimulator. Unfortunately, all such attempts were unsuccessful in achieving my ultimate goal of obtaining relief from the constant pain in my right anterior quad. This prevented me from walking more than a few blocks at a time, or even standing for more than two or three minutes, without needing a break. To add to my dismay, several of the surgeons with whom I consulted suggested that only major deformity surgery could alleviate my primary pain.

I then had the good fortune to see Dr. Lovecchio. After careful examination, additional diagnostics and imaging, as well as a short-term successful epidural injection at a different but more appropriate level, Dr. Lovecchio performed a three-level fusion in my lower spine a little over a year ago. As a result, and despite some manageable lingering weakness and relatively mild pain in my low back and other peripheral areas, for the first time in recent memory I am now totally pain-free in my right anterior quad. Moreover, I am now not only able to stand for extended periods of time, but my current exercise regimen most days includes walking 3+ miles, something I can do easily enough and without discomfort. And at 80, I can still play competitive golf, which is my passion. Thank you, Dr. Lovecchio.