Jessica

Growing up in a large family, Jessica was always outdoors. Together they loved boating, camping, four-wheeling, and swimming in the family pool. As she got older, she also developed a passion for travel. Some of her adventures include visits to Turks and Caicos, Kentucky, Tennessee, and Lake Powell.  

Several years ago, Jessica noticed that her low back was starting to hurt more frequently. Without any injury that she could think of, she tried to fight through the pain. All her favorite activities became more difficult. During this time, Jessica met and married the love of her life! Now a teacher and newlywed, she stayed busy and tried not to focus on the pain, telling herself that she was being overly sensitive. Finally, her mom suggested that she see a chiropractor to improve her spine health. Upon examination, the chiropractor realized that Jessica needed more than an adjustment and suggested x-rays. Her symptoms and new imaging prompted a referral to a neurosurgeon. The narrowing in her central canal was causing numbness in both legs and excruciating pain in her lower back. 

As a teacher who works one-on-one with first and third grade students, Jessica was struggling to work through the pain. The only relief she could find was coming home from school and laying flat on her back until she was required to start work again the next day. Lifting, bending, and any physical activity was painful. She was experiencing nerve pain and numbness in both legs. Her swollen, discolored lower back alternated between shooting and throbbing pain.  

Jessica was referred to Summit where our providers promptly recognized that she would benefit from a lumbar fusion. After an MRI, she met with Dr. Brock to review the findings. It appeared that Jessica was probably born with a slight imperfection in her spine that deteriorated over time. Having failed conservative treatments, they discussed surgery and what to expect. Jessica was nervous about having back surgery, but she relied on her trust in Dr Brock. She shared, “Dr. Brock was so clear and answered all my questions. Everything went the way she said it would go and she came in after my surgery to talk with me and make sure I was doing okay.” 

Three months after surgery, Jessica is happily living her life again. She delights in the little things like unloading the dishwasher, taking a walk with her husband, and doing her physical therapy exercises. She is back in the classroom and was just cleared for all physical activity. Jessica can’t wait to get back on the lake! She’s even planning a trip with her husband to visit Suriname at the end of this year.  

Now standing 1.5 inches taller post-surgery, Jessica is thrilled with the outcome. She marvels at feeling her legs again and living without pain. In expressing her gratitude to Summit she commented, “Dr. Brock is confident and calm and made me feel confident and calm too. She’s amazing and I owe my life to her!”