Advertise on podcast: Get Back To It

Cynthia Bader always knew osteoporosis ran in her family. Her 93-year-old mother lives with osteoporosis and scoliosis, and her older sister has it too. Still, at 54 and feeling healthy, she never expected a scan meant only to “get a baseline” to show she already had osteoporosis.  Her primary care doctor knew her family history and recommended screening years before the guidelines call for it. That scan found a T-score of -2.5 in her lumbar spine. It also changed the course of Cynthia’s bone health.  In this episode of Get Back to It, Cynthia joins Dr. Rita Roy to talk about how she took charge from day one. She started medication right away, worked with a trainer on weight-bearing exercise, ate more calcium-rich foods and built movement into her daily routine. Five years later, her T-score has improved to -2.1.  Cynthia and Dr. Roy also talk about why the current screening age of 65 is often too late, the myths that keep people from getting checked, the link between menopause, hormone therapy and bone loss, and why bone health matters at every age. They also discuss a recent fall that Cynthia believes could have been far worse without treatment.  Support the show Get Back to It is presented by the National Spine Health Foundation and shares real stories of Spinal Champions who have overcome spine conditions and found their way back to the lives they love. Learn more and discover additional Spinal Champion stories at https://spinehealth.org/community-support/get-back-to-it-podcast/

When registered nurse and functional medicine practitioner Belinda Rogers suddenly developed severe back pain, she never imagined she would be diagnosed with two spinal compression fractures—and severe osteoporosis. Belinda had no fall, accident, or injury. She walked five miles a day, maintained a healthy diet, and considered herself active and health-conscious. Yet a bone density scan revealed a T-score of -4.2 in her spine and -3.9 in her femoral neck, a shocking change from a normal bone density scan just years earlier. In this episode of Get Back to It, Belinda joins Dr. Rita Roy to share how her unexpected diagnosis forced her to become the patient after years of caring for others as a healthcare professional. She discusses seeking a second opinion after receiving conflicting treatment recommendations, navigating her recovery from spinal compression fractures, and investigating the potential factors contributing to her bone loss. Belinda also shares how the experience changed the way she thinks about strength, nutrition, menopause, medications, gut health, and the importance of advocating for yourself within the healthcare system. Her story is a powerful reminder that osteoporosis can be silent until a fracture occurs—and looking healthy on the outside doesn’t always tell the full story. Listen as Belinda shares what she wishes she had known sooner, why understanding your individual risk factors matters, and what “getting back to it” means as she rebuilds her strength, confidence, and independence. Support the show Get Back to It is presented by the National Spine Health Foundation and shares real stories of Spinal Champions who have overcome spine conditions and found their way back to the lives they love. Learn more and discover additional Spinal Champion stories at https://spinehealth.org/community-support/get-back-to-it-podcast/

At 41 years old, Lisa Marsh’s life changed in an instant when a devastating motorcycle accident left her with a shattered T9 vertebra and an uncertain future. After a complex 12-hour surgery to reconstruct and stabilize her spine, Lisa faced months in a brace, nearly a year away from work, and the difficult process of rebuilding her independence. But recovery was only the beginning. In this episode of Get Back to It, Dr. Rita Roy sits down with Lisa to talk about the accident that changed her life, the challenges of spine surgery and recovery, and the unexpected transformation that followed. Once someone who never considered herself an athlete, Lisa went on to complete a half marathon, multiple road and obstacle races, a Tough Mudder, and years of CrossFit training and competitions. More than two decades later, Lisa faced another chapter in her spine journey when the hardware from her original surgery began causing problems, leading to another operation. Once again, she found her way back. Lisa shares what she has learned about resilience, staying active, adapting as your body changes, leaning on the people who support you, and appreciating the ability to move. Her story is a powerful reminder that recovery doesn’t always mean returning to who you were before—it can mean discovering just how strong you can become. Get Back to It is presented by the National Spine Health Foundation and shares real stories of Spinal Champions who have overcome spine conditions and found their way back to the lives they love. Learn more and discover additional Spinal Champion stories at https://spinehealth.org/community-support/get-back-to-it-podcast/ Support the show Get Back to It is presented by the National Spine Health Foundation and shares real stories of Spinal Champions who have overcome spine conditions and found their way back to the lives they love. Learn more and discover additional Spinal Champion stories at https://spinehealth.org/community-support/get-back-to-it-podcast/

After a delayed diagnosis of cauda equina syndrome left her with permanent neurological damage, Claire Thornber faced a life forever changed. Once a busy business owner and mother of two, she suddenly found herself navigating chronic pain, mobility challenges, and the emotional toll of an invisible disability. In this episode of Get Back to It, Claire shares her powerful journey from patient to advocate, discussing the warning signs of cauda equina syndrome, the importance of timely diagnosis, and the long road to recovery. She also shares how her personal experience inspired her to found Cauda Equina Champions Charity, an organization that now provides education, support, and advocacy for thousands of patients around the world. Join Dr. Rita Roy and Claire for an inspiring conversation about resilience, finding purpose after adversity, and how one person's voice can spark meaningful change for an entire patient community. Visit spinehealth.org/podcasts for more stories and spine health resources. Learn more about the Cauda Equina Champions Charity: https://www.championscharity.org.uk/ Support the show Get Back to It is presented by the National Spine Health Foundation and shares real stories of Spinal Champions who have overcome spine conditions and found their way back to the lives they love. Learn more and discover additional Spinal Champion stories at https://spinehealth.org/community-support/get-back-to-it-podcast/

What happens when a young scoliosis patient turns her own recovery journey into a source of hope for others?  In this inspiring episode of Get Back To It, host Dr. Rita Roy welcomes Dr. Robert Brady, orthopedic spine surgeon and founder of the Straight Caribbean Spine Foundation *, along with Payton Simms, a teenage scoliosis survivor whose life-changing experience led her to join Dr. Brady's medical mission in Jamaica.  Dr. Brady shares how his foundation has provided life-changing scoliosis surgery to more than 400 children across the Caribbean over the past two decades, while Payton reflects on her own scoliosis journey—from bracing and spinal fusion surgery to returning to the sports she loves. Together, they discuss the powerful impact of peer-to-peer support, the realities of delivering specialized spine care in resource-limited settings, and how one young patient helped ease the fears of children preparing for surgery.  This heartfelt conversation explores resilience, gratitude, service, and the extraordinary difference that compassionate care can make in transforming lives.  In this episode, you'll learn:  How the Straight Caribbean Spine Foundation is changing lives through scoliosis care  Payton's personal journey through scoliosis surgery and recovery  Why peer support is so important for patients facing spine surgery  The challenges and rewards of providing specialized care in Jamaica  How service to others can create lasting impact for both patients and caregivers   Whether you're a patient, caregiver, healthcare professional, or simply someone inspired by stories of hope and healing, this episode is a powerful reminder that recovery doesn't just change lives—it can help change the world.   Visit spinehealth.org/podcasts for more stories and spine health resources. * Learn more about the Straight Caribbean Spine Foundation by watching this inspiring video: https://vimeo.com/72563707?fl=pl&fe=sh   Support the show Get Back to It is presented by the National Spine Health Foundation and shares real stories of Spinal Champions who have overcome spine conditions and found their way back to the lives they love. Learn more and discover additional Spinal Champion stories at https://spinehealth.org/community-support/get-back-to-it-podcast/

Scoliosis Awareness Month Special: Diagnosed with severe scoliosis at age 12, Necia B. underwent life-changing spinal surgery and spent years navigating pain, fear, and isolation. Today, she uses her voice to inspire others facing similar challenges. In this episode, Necia shares her journey of resilience, recovery, and learning that a diagnosis doesn't define who you are. Hear how movement, community, and self-expression helped her get back to the life she loves. Visit spinehealth.org/podcasts for more stories and spine health resources. Support the show Get Back to It is presented by the National Spine Health Foundation and shares real stories of Spinal Champions who have overcome spine conditions and found their way back to the lives they love. Learn more and discover additional Spinal Champion stories at https://spinehealth.org/community-support/get-back-to-it-podcast/

At 77, Betty is still playing tennis — but getting there wasn't easy. In this episode, Dr. Rita Roy sits down with Betty to talk about her decades-long journey with osteoporosis: two foot fractures, a vertebral compression fracture, years of DEXA scans, and the medications that helped her rebuild her bones. Along the way, they discuss why a fracture can tell you more than any scan, how menopause accelerates bone loss, and why staying active may be the best thing you can do for your skeleton at any age. Betty's story is proof that with the right care and attitude, you can keep moving for decades to come. Visit spinehealth.org/podcasts for more stories and spine health resources.  Tune in to learn about the future of spinal health!  Support the show Get Back to It is presented by the National Spine Health Foundation and shares real stories of Spinal Champions who have overcome spine conditions and found their way back to the lives they love. Learn more and discover additional Spinal Champion stories at https://spinehealth.org/community-support/get-back-to-it-podcast/

Amanda Rosen’s story is one of relentless determination, unexpected setbacks, and ultimately, transformation. Diagnosed with spondylolisthesis at just seven years old, Amanda grew up managing chronic pain—but never letting it define her. She went on to become a Division I lacrosse player at Rutgers University and later pushed her limits even further as an Ironman competitor.  But in 2016, while training for a qualifying race for Kona, everything changed. A sudden progression of her condition left her in debilitating pain—unable to walk, care for her family, or continue the active life she had always known. After exhausting conservative treatments, Amanda made the difficult decision to undergo spinal fusion surgery.  In this episode, Amanda shares her journey from lifelong athlete to patient, navigating insurance challenges, surgery, and recovery with resilience and perspective. Her story is not just about healing physically, but about redefining identity, asking for help, and finding strength beyond performance.  Today, Amanda is pain-free and living life on her terms—reminding us all that recovery is possible, and that even in our hardest moments, we can find a way forward.  Support the show Get Back to It is presented by the National Spine Health Foundation and shares real stories of Spinal Champions who have overcome spine conditions and found their way back to the lives they love. Learn more and discover additional Spinal Champion stories at https://spinehealth.org/community-support/get-back-to-it-podcast/

In this episode of Get Back To It, Dr. Rita Roy speaks with Platoon Sergeant Jonathan Carter, whose spine condition began as mild shoulder blade discomfort during his early years of military service and gradually progressed into cervical degenerative disc disease with nerve involvement. What initially seemed like a posture related issue evolved over several years into radiating pain, hand clumsiness, and loss of function, symptoms that were easy to dismiss while meeting the physical and leadership demands of military life. After extensive conservative treatment, a sudden worsening of symptoms led to advanced imaging and a definitive diagnosis. Jonathan ultimately underwent a two level cervical fusion to relieve nerve compression and stabilize his spine. While surgery quickly resolved many of his neurological symptoms, recovery required patience, discipline, and a renewed focus on rebuilding strength and confidence in his body. Jonathan reflects on navigating injury while serving as a leader, the pressure to push through pain, and the importance of advocating for your health, even in high performance environments like the military. Now returning to endurance training, competing in triathlons, and preparing for an ultra marathon, Jonathan’s story highlights that resilience is not just about pushing through, but recognizing when to act, trusting your care team, and rebuilding both physical and mental strength. Support the show Get Back to It is presented by the National Spine Health Foundation and shares real stories of Spinal Champions who have overcome spine conditions and found their way back to the lives they love. Learn more and discover additional Spinal Champion stories at https://spinehealth.org/community-support/get-back-to-it-podcast/

In this episode of Get Back To It, Dr. Rita Roy speaks with Rich Rabin, a technology and product leader whose life was upended by severe nerve pain caused by an L5–S1 disc herniation. What began as manageable glute pain progressed into debilitating nerve symptoms that affected his sleep, mobility, and overall quality of life. After months of conservative treatments—including physical therapy and injections—Rich ultimately underwent a microdiscectomy to relieve nerve compression. While surgery addressed the primary issue, recovery proved gradual and unpredictable. Rich shares candidly about the mental and emotional challenges of healing, the importance of self-advocacy, and learning that spine recovery is rarely linear. Inspired by his own frustration tracking fluctuating symptoms, Rich created Recoverly, a free iPhone app designed to help patients log daily symptoms and identify trends—supporting clearer communication with healthcare providers. Rich’s story is a powerful reminder that healing takes patience; progress isn’t always steady, and resilience can grow from even the most difficult setbacks. Support the show Get Back to It is presented by the National Spine Health Foundation and shares real stories of Spinal Champions who have overcome spine conditions and found their way back to the lives they love. Learn more and discover additional Spinal Champion stories at https://spinehealth.org/community-support/get-back-to-it-podcast/

A Spine Surgeon’s Journey: Seeing the Operating Room From Both Sides What happens when a spine surgeon becomes a patient? In this powerful episode of Get Back To It, Dr. David Polly shares his deeply personal journey of moving from the surgeon’s chair to the patient’s bed. After years of treating complex spine conditions, Dr. Polly experienced firsthand what it’s like to navigate pain, uncertainty, and recovery from the other side of the operating room. Through honest reflection, he explores how this experience reshaped his understanding of healing, empathy, and patient care—and how it continues to influence the way he practices medicine today. This conversation offers valuable insight for patients, caregivers, and medical professionals alike, reminding us that recovery is not just physical, but profoundly human. 🎧 Tune in for a story of resilience, perspective, and what it truly means to Get Back To It. Support the show Get Back to It is presented by the National Spine Health Foundation and shares real stories of Spinal Champions who have overcome spine conditions and found their way back to the lives they love. Learn more and discover additional Spinal Champion stories at https://spinehealth.org/community-support/get-back-to-it-podcast/

Silver Alkhafaji’s journey through chronic back pain began when she was a teenager and intensified during her PhD studies at UCSF. Misdiagnoses, escalating symptoms, and delayed imaging prolonged her suffering until an MRI finally revealed L5–S1 spondylolisthesis caused by a bilateral pars defect. After conservative care failed, Silver underwent a spinal fusion with laminectomy in December 2023. Recovery was far from linear—marked by setbacks, medication trials, physical therapy challenges, and emotional hurdles—but through perseverance, self-advocacy, and creative expression, she reclaimed her life. Today, Silver embraces healing through writing, community, and continued strength-building. Her story exemplifies the power of persistence, proper diagnosis, and listening to one’s body. Support the show Get Back to It is presented by the National Spine Health Foundation and shares real stories of Spinal Champions who have overcome spine conditions and found their way back to the lives they love. Learn more and discover additional Spinal Champion stories at https://spinehealth.org/community-support/get-back-to-it-podcast/

In this episode of the Get Back To It Podcast, we hear the inspiring journey of 14-year-old athlete Maeve Danaher from Chicago, Illinois. A dedicated competitive swimmer, Maeve’s life changed dramatically when she was diagnosed with double scoliosis — one curve measuring 70 degrees and another at 60. Facing a 10-hour spinal fusion surgery, Maeve’s determination and courage were tested in ways she never imagined. Maeve opens up about the emotional toll of preparing for major surgery, the challenges of losing independence, and the long road to recovery marked by pain, patience, and perseverance. With the unwavering support of her parents, medical team, and friends, she learned to walk again just a day after surgery and gradually rebuilt her strength. Cleared to return to competitive swimming less than a year later, Maeve’s story is one of resilience, positivity, and youthful optimism. Her journey reminds us that recovery is not only about physical healing, but also about mental strength and hope — showing that even after life-changing surgery, it’s possible to dive back in and keep swimming toward your dreams.  Support the show Get Back to It is presented by the National Spine Health Foundation and shares real stories of Spinal Champions who have overcome spine conditions and found their way back to the lives they love. Learn more and discover additional Spinal Champion stories at https://spinehealth.org/community-support/get-back-to-it-podcast/

In this episode of the Get Back To It Podcast, we hear the remarkable story of Dawn Lissy, a biomedical engineer in the spine industry who found herself on the other side of care as a patient. After decades of helping others through spinal implant design and testing, Dawn was faced with her own diagnosis of degenerative spine conditions. She shares her deeply personal journey of navigating pain, undergoing treatments like physical therapy, a discectomy, and injections, and making lifestyle changes to manage symptoms and restore quality of life. Dawn’s experience highlights the emotional and physical challenges of living with ongoing pain, the importance of perseverance, and the power of advocating for yourself on the road to recovery. Support the show Get Back to It is presented by the National Spine Health Foundation and shares real stories of Spinal Champions who have overcome spine conditions and found their way back to the lives they love. Learn more and discover additional Spinal Champion stories at https://spinehealth.org/community-support/get-back-to-it-podcast/

Years of chronic pain led Daniel Ramia to multiple surgeries, countless therapies, and ultimately, a life-changing spinal reconstruction. Diagnosed with multilevel degenerative disc disease, Daniel endured five years of debilitating spasms and setbacks before finding the right team and the right solution. Now, he’s back to gardening, biking, and living fully again. His story shows that with perseverance and self-advocacy, hope is always possible.  Support the show Get Back to It is presented by the National Spine Health Foundation and shares real stories of Spinal Champions who have overcome spine conditions and found their way back to the lives they love. Learn more and discover additional Spinal Champion stories at https://spinehealth.org/community-support/get-back-to-it-podcast/