Before my L5-S1 oblique lumbar interbody fusion, I could barely bend or even sit, and I couldn’t do my job without constant pain in my back and leg. Even simple daily tasks felt overwhelming. This was the first major surgery I’d ever had, and just the thought of general anesthesia was scary. From the very beginning, the entire team was fabulous and truly advocated for me. Dr Ashana and PA Mattie explained everything in clear, detailed terms, which made me feel informed and supported every step of the way. Now, I’m able to live my life every day without pain. I’m so grateful I went through with it.

Rena W.

I am so grateful for Dr Ashana and his entire team throughout my L3-L5 oblique lumbar interbody fusion. I always said I would never, ever have back surgery. I was so concerned I would not be able to work afterward. Before surgery, my pain had become so limiting that I could barely walk into work some days. I’ve had five children without epidurals, but this pain was truly debilitating and tormenting every aspect of my life. As a nurse, I had the unique perspective of seeing Dr. Ashana’s and PA Mattie’s patient outcomes and the level of care they provided throughout the perioperative period. That experience gave me deep confidence in their approach. Dr. Ashana was also one of the only surgeons in the area performing minimally invasive spine surgery, which made a huge difference in my decision. I deeply appreciated how much time he took to explain everything during my surgical consultation. I never felt rushed and always felt heard and supported. I was up and moving the very first day after surgery—even dressing myself—and I felt better almost immediately. I returned to work just six weeks after surgery, something I never thought would be possible. Choosing this surgery gave me my life back and I can’t believe I am completely pain free. I can do everything I want to do and am excited to be getting my strength back. Thank you, thank you, thank you!

Tracey S.

Before my C5-C7 cervical disc arthroplasty surgery, I had significant limitations from my neck condition, including decreased use of my right arm, an electric-like sensation, limited neck mobility, and difficulty sleeping. These symptoms were affecting my daily life and overall quality of living. I was very interested in disc replacement instead of a cervical fusion. I was reassured when Dr. Ashana shared that same recommendation. I had done my research and knew that Dr. Ashana specialized in this procedure, which immediately gave me confidence in my decision. From our first conversation, I felt completely at ease. Dr. Ashana was personable, knowledgeable, and easy to talk to. He carefully reviewed each level of my MRI with me, explaining everything in detail and outlining a personalized treatment plan tailored specifically to my needs. The surgery was performed as an outpatient procedure, and I began to feel meaningful relief within just one week. You have to have a great surgeon, but you also have to have a great team. PA Mattie’s knowledge was off the charts and there was no question in my mind of each step I needed to go through before surgery. I felt so prepared and confident for how expectations were communicated through the pre and postoperative periods. I was supported the entire way.

Jeff W.

My pain from an L3–L4 disc herniation had progressed to the point where normal, daily activities were unbearable. Even something as simple as getting in and out of my truck—and especially caring for my children—became incredibly difficult as my leg would give out. I knew I needed relief.

I researched extensively and learned the differences between open and minimally invasive spine surgery. I specifically sought out Dr. Ashana because he is one of the few surgeons who perform endoscopic spine surgery in the state. I was confident that this very minimally invasive approach would allow me to return to my life faster, with a better recovery, less muscle disruption, and an overall higher quality of life.

Dr. Ashana took the time to thoroughly explain my pathology and all of my treatment options, clearly setting expectations from the start. That transparency, combined with his understanding of my background, made me feel truly seen, supported, and confident in his skills—skills I later saw firsthand. He and his entire team were fully committed to getting me back to my job and my life as quickly, safely, and effectively as possible.

I was up and moving immediately after waking up from surgery and returned to work as soon as my restrictions were lifted. I’m back to running 6-8 miles per week and working at my full capacity. Throughout the entire process, the team was always available to answer my questions. I knew I could ask anything at any time and would always receive a thoughtful, clear response.

Cliff G.

Prior to my L5–S1 fusion, I was falling and unable to get up on my own. I could no longer garden—something I truly enjoyed—and I had persistent numbness in both of my feet. I was normally very active, but the pain had completely taken that away from me. I had been seen at several other practices, but PA Mattie was the first person in more than three years who was able to clearly explain what was causing my symptoms. When I then met Dr. Ashana, I was immediately struck by his amazing bedside manner. He truly went above and beyond to make sure I understood my condition and treatment options. Before finding this team, I had received numerous injections without any relief. This was the first time I genuinely felt listened to and cared for. After my L5–S1 fusion, I was able to get up and walk as soon as I arrived in my room, and my initial recovery went very well.

Several months later, I began experiencing right-sided glute pain. Once again, Mattie carefully evaluated my symptoms and identified right sacroiliac joint dysfunction. She guided me through a thorough workup, which ultimately led me to consider minimally invasive sacroiliac joint fusion. This was an outpatient surgery that also had me up and moving directly after with nearly immediate pain relief other than expected surgical discomfort. Throughout this entire process, the whole team never made assumptions. They took the time to work through detailed physical exams, imaging, and targeted injections to clearly identify the source of my pain—and they explained everything in a way I could understand.

I never once felt dismissed. I felt like I was a part of the plan every step of the way, knowing I was in thoughtful, capable hands. I am so thankful to have my life back.

Linda B.

I had been experiencing neck pain with severe left arm pain/tingling for about 4-5 years and had been treated at an outside practice where I felt my symptoms had been continually deferred. I started experiencing symptoms on my right side as well and in a conversation with a neighbor who had similar symptoms, he recommended I see his guy, Dr Ashana. I was desiring more definitive treatment after years of conservative modalities. Upon meeting Dr Ashana and the team, I felt my imaging findings and treatment options were well explained and I was desiring a disc replacement vs a fusion due to my very active lifestyle. I had very little pain within a week after surgery and was back playing soccer within 2 months of my C5-C7 cervical disc arthroplasty.

Jeff T.

Prior to my surgery, I was unable to stand for more than half an hour at a time and truly could not function. Minimally invasive surgery was essential for me to get back to my life quickly, and I can honestly say I’m back to 100%.

I am incredibly grateful to Dr. Ashana and his team for explaining everything thoroughly—from reviewing my imaging to the surgery itself. I chose Dr. Ashana based on a referral from an anesthesiology friend, and I am so glad I did.

The Physician Assistants were a vital part of the care team, as I saw them for most of my visits. They always ensured that my questions were answered through the portal or by phone. I never felt pressured to take medications; instead, I was supported in weaning off them or using them only as needed.

What I especially appreciated was how Dr. Ashana performed my surgery in a two-step, muscle-sparing process. This approach made a huge difference in my recovery, allowing me to get up directly after surgery and return to my daily life quickly.

Sonja M.