A Better Experience Starts Here

Explore Your Spine Surgery Recovery Journey

Dr. Kamal Woods With Patient

Preparing for Recovery: Your Full Journey

A guided experience from Pre-Op to Healing

Part 1: Before Surgery

Whether it’s your first surgery or your fifth, this can feel overwhelming. That’s why we created a simple, supportive timeline to help you prepare, one step at a time.

Click to explore: What to Expect Before Spine Surgery at Vertrae®

It includes:

Pre-op checklist
What to bring
What questions to ask your surgeon
How to prep your home

Part 2: After Surgery

All of our surgeries are outpatient, so you’ll recover where you feel most comfortable: at home. And no matter which procedure you have, our team stays with you every step of the way. Every patient’s journey is unique. That’s why we’ve created two recovery guides based on the type of surgery you have:

12-Week Recovery Journey

For non-fusion surgeries such as laminectomy, discectomy, neurostimulation, Disc Replacement or Barricaid procedures.

6-Month Recovery Journey

For fusion or complex spine procedures that require more healing time.

Procedures & Treatments We Offer

Microdiscectomy and Microlaminectomy

Barricaid®

Artificial Disc Replacement

Cervical Fusion

Lumbar Fusion

SI Joint Fusion

Spinal Cord Stimulator Placement

ReActiv8®

Patient Reviews

Real Stories. Real Relief.

All reviews

Google

Healthgrades

Vitals

WebMD

Excellent4.9670 reviews
4.9
Excellent670 reviews
Write a review Google Healthgrades Vitals WebMD

Excellent4.9511 reviews
4.9
Excellent511 reviews
Write a review

Excellent4.864 reviews
4.8
Excellent64 reviews
Write a review

Excellent4.859 reviews
4.8
Excellent59 reviews
Write a review

Excellent5.036 reviews
5.0
Excellent36 reviews
Write a review

Posted on Vitals

Patient
2 October 2026

Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Vitals. I saw Dr. Woods for an initial consultation yesterday and I’m very impressed with everything. I loved that I actually got to meet with him for the first time versus an NP or PA. I like meeting the surgeon I’m going to be working with. Dr. Woods identified the problem and came up with short/medium term solutions and a long term solution. I am encouraged that he wants to delay a fusion for a long as possible since I’m under 40 with two small kids. Also, Dr. Woods is a board certified neurosurgeon. That was very important to me versus having an orthopedic spine surgeon. Personally, that is a very important distinction. I’m looking forward to working with Dr. Woods and his team.

Posted on Vitals

Patient
2 October 2026

Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Vitals. Friendly and welcoming to my request providing me a second opinion to my neck issues. Enjoyed the consultation with him and his PA. They were very thorough in going over my recent MRI and X-rays and Dr Wood explained his professional opinion for continuing the route I am on but if the problem worsens to come back and see him. I respect a professional in medical that is not out to tell you that you need something when you really don’t. Will definitely go back to Dr Wood if my situation worsens and current treatment I am undergoing fails to work.

Posted on Healthgrades

Healthgrades User
29 September 2026

Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Healthgrades. Spinal Cord Stimulator
The entire team was very professional. My 2-week follow-up appointment after my surgery and programming my spinal cord stimulator went very well.

Posted on Healthgrades

Healthgrades User
23 September 2026

Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Healthgrades. Dr Woods’ office staff is so capable
The office is well managed; staff is efficient and capable. I was greeted and assigned a room immediately. X-rays quickly completed. I didn’t feel rushed.

Posted on Vitals

Patient
18 September 2026

Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Vitals. Very polite, expains things well. You don't feel hurried.

Posted on Google

Donald99 80
16 September 2026

Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Dr Woods is a very skilled surgeon. No issues with my surgery. Very personable, and listens to his patients concerns. One of the best medical procedure experiences I've had out of roughly 8 different surgeries.

Owner's reply
We are absolutely thrilled by your fantastic rating! It is incredibly rewarding to know that our efforts are appreciated. We strive to provide excellent service.

Posted on Google

Donna Smith
16 September 2026

Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I felt Dr Woods recommending physical therapy first was good. He explained my situation very well

Owner's reply
We are so pleased to receive your positive feedback! Ensuring clear communication and thorough explanations is a priority for our team. We are dedicated to providing comprehensive and supportive care.

Posted on Healthgrades

Healthgrades User
11 September 2026

Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Healthgrades. They made me feel at ease. I thought I was going to need a major ACDF surgery and I still might but they assured me that we could try PT and that they see this all the time. They were so friendly and reassuring.

Posted on Vitals

Patient
10 September 2026

Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Vitals. First impression very good, receptionist very friendly and helpful, started appointment on time, Dr. Woods showed and explained what treatment consisted of and answered all the questions I had,

Posted on Google

Heike Hudson
7 September 2026

Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Dr. Woods is an excellent surgeon with outstanding communication skills and caring demeanor

Owner's reply
We are so pleased to receive your high praise! We believe that clear communication and a supportive approach are essential in all circumstances. Our team strives to uphold these values every day.

Posted on Google

Charlie Kaluga (Phantom)
4 September 2026

Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Great people and experience. Trusted surgeon👍😊

Owner's reply
We are so pleased to read your wonderful feedback! Our team is dedicated to fostering a supportive and professional environment for everyone. We appreciate your positive sentiments.

Posted on Google

Harry Bryan
4 September 2026

Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Outstanding!

Owner's reply
Your positive feedback is greatly appreciated! We are always striving for excellence in our services and appreciate you taking the time to share your sentiments. Our team is dedicated to providing the best possible environment for everyone.

Posted on Google

Evelyn Manley
1 September 2026

Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Dr. Woods is the finest neurosurgeon you could have. I've been through two surgeries with him and both have been a true success.
If you have an unusual problem, seek the best.
Dr. Woods can fix you! His very understanding, answered all my questions, very compassionate about any fears you may
have. Office staff are friendly and make you feel comfortable. Thank you Dr
Woods!

Owner's reply
We are thrilled to read your glowing remarks! It is incredibly rewarding to know that our dedicated team provides such a high level of care and reassurance. We are committed to maintaining a supportive and professional environment for everyone.

Posted on Healthgrades

Healthgrades User
28 August 2026

Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Healthgrades. Office visit for back and leg pain
Jennifer Leibold has a very pleasant bedside manner. Listens and explains everything well. I look forward to my next visit. Dr. Woods is a very wonderful doctor and picked a like minded PA.

Posted on Healthgrades

Healthgrades User
21 August 2026

Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Healthgrades. Road to no pain.
It was like going back home. Everyone was so friendly, made me feel welcome. Thanks

Posted on Google

Mark Leonard
20 August 2026

Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Everyone is so nice I feel comfortable going there and love my doctor/doctors very easy to talk to I recommend them

Owner's reply
Awesome! Thanks for the feedback.

Posted on Vitals

Patient
19 August 2026

Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Vitals. I had a great visit, staff was great and both Jennifer and Dr Woods answered all my questions.

Posted on Google

Robert Stone
18 August 2026

Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. This was my initial visit for this current condition. The doctor and the physician's assistant, took all the time needed to listen to me and explain to me their opinions/recommendations. Not just one size fits all solutions, but presented options. That was my first visit several years back. This week I saw Dr. Woods again, and the same holds true.

Owner's reply
We are delighted to receive your wonderful feedback! It is truly rewarding to know that our approach to personalized attention and clear communication is valued. Our team strives to offer comprehensive information and various options to everyone. We appreciate you sharing your positive thoughts.

Posted on Healthgrades

Healthgrades User
14 August 2026

Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Healthgrades. Always a good experience
On time friendly and professional

Posted on Healthgrades

Healthgrades User
12 August 2026

Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Healthgrades. Finally a hope. He is assertive and realistic,
The team is professional and kind. They work the extra mile.Thank you!

Posted on Google

Nancy Raimey
7 August 2026

Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I was impressed

Owner's reply
It is wonderful to hear such positive sentiments! Our team works diligently to provide excellent service for everyone. We are truly grateful for your feedback.

Posted on Google

Tisha Thomsson
7 August 2026

Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Good Doctor my first visit

Owner's reply
It is wonderful to receive your positive remarks! We are delighted to know that your initial assessment was favorable. Our team works diligently to ensure everyone feels well-cared for from the very beginning.

Posted on Vitals

Patient
7 August 2026

Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Vitals. Professional,friendly, on time

Posted on Healthgrades

Healthgrades User
6 August 2026

Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Healthgrades. Place was clean everyone was very professional friendly and on schedule.

Posted on WebMD

Anonymous
31 July 2026

Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is WebMD. I am always satisfied when I visit Dr Woods’ office. My questions were answered and I feel more at ease with my upcoming surgery. Dr Woods and his staff always make me feel comfortable and I am confident in his knowledge and abilities to help relieve my pain.

Posted on Vitals

Patient
30 July 2026

Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Vitals. Dr Woods and his staff did a fantastic job. I was suffering from my L5 S1. My leg hurt me so much that I could not stand very much and could not walk. Dr Woods did a successful surgery. I have my life back now. I am so thankful. Very caring and professional staff.

Posted on Healthgrades

Healthgrades User
23 July 2026

Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Healthgrades. Right neck and arm radiating pain
I Just had a first visit and was very impressed with the quality of the staff and attention they gave me.

Posted on Healthgrades

Healthgrades User
23 July 2026

Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Healthgrades. Competent surgeon and competent Pa who were very informative, kind and helpful.

Posted on Vitals

Patient
15 July 2026

Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Vitals. I cannot say enough about Dr.Woods and his entire team. He performed my c5c6 disc replacement, and from the very first consultation through my recovery, the entire process was explained and handled with professionalism and care. Every person I encountered, front the front office staff to his PA, Jen and nursing staff was outstanding. More importantly, the surgery was a complete success. The cervical and nerve pain that I was struggling with were completely alleviated, and my quality of life has improved tremendously. I’m incredibly grateful for Dr. Woods for his expertise, skill and compassionate care.

Posted on Vitals

Patient
15 July 2026

Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Vitals. Great bed side manner and knowledged

Posted on Vitals

Patient
9 July 2026

Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Vitals. All staff very friendly and helpful. Dr. Woods thorough, understanding and knowledgeable. So glad he was recommended to me!

Posted on WebMD

Anonymous
28 May 2026

Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is WebMD. Dr. Woods did amazing! I'm 2 weeks post surgery from a microdiscectomy and I feel great! Also shout out to the nurse Bethany! She was great as well

Posted on WebMD

Anonymous
15 May 2026

Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is WebMD. Very friendly and answers all our questions and concerns

Posted on WebMD

Anonymous
13 May 2026

Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is WebMD. Dr. Woods is a compassionate and caring doctor. I am very happy with the outcome of my surgery and his PT staff were excellent in providing me with my PT during my recovery. The physical therapists were professional and caring in making sure that I reached my treatment goals.

Posted on WebMD

Anonymous
7 May 2026

Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is WebMD. I went to see Dr. Kamal Woods due to nerve entrapment in my cervical spine. His entire practice from the moment you walk in is focused on you. Everyone is kind and very helpful. I met his PA as well Jennifer. Both she and Kamal are very knowledgeable and caring. I had my cervical disc replaced in his practice with an amazing team. The nurses were wonderful. The anesthesiologist was wonderful. Dr. Kamal Woods did amazing work with his team I woke up pain free. I was given complete instructions prior to surgery to read over so I knew exactly what was coming and his staff was wonderful in reminding me for the next six weeks all I had to do was my part and heal. Upon returning for my six week check up I met with Jennifer his PA. She’s wonderful very knowledgeable again answered any questions I had and immediately got me set for physical therapy. I can promise you this prior to my surgery. I did my research. I talked to people who had been there and experienced what I am explaining…. Vertrae is TOP NOTCH! I am grateful to the entire team for making my experience phenomenal!

Posted on WebMD

Anonymous
29 April 2026

Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is WebMD. Upon arrival we were treated very nice by receptionist. Everything was explained very well.

Posted on WebMD

Anonymous
15 April 2026

Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is WebMD. I will never hesitate to recommend Dr Woods! I had debilitating pain and underwent a minimally invasive lumbar laminectomy in early March. I just had my post-op appointment yesterday and was happy to report my pain is gone! I appreciate Dr. Woods and all the staff that work with him. The front desk staff, nurses, PA (everyone) have been nothing less than genuinely compassionate and excellent at what they do! If you are on the fence, I’d say at least go for an initial visit! Hopefully you will be as happy as I am with great results!

Posted on WebMD

Anonymous
1 April 2026

Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is WebMD. The office staff was very friendly and quick to get me in for an appointment. Dr. Woods is understanding and knowledgeable. I would definitely recommend him to anyone, which is hard to say about a lot of Drs nowadays. Dr Woods listen to what I had to say and went through all my questions and concerns with me. Thank you, Dr. Woods and staff!

Posted on WebMD

Anonymous
25 March 2026

Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is WebMD. Doctor is very personable as is his staff. All were very attentive and professional.

Posted on WebMD

Anonymous
18 March 2026

Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is WebMD. Had a great visit with Dr woods - was greeted by a very helpful and nice staff . Dr Woods was prompt, he took a lot of time going over X-rays and making recommendations that I could understand . Looking forward to next appointment!

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You Don’t Have to Live with Chronic Back or Neck Pain

Your life is too important to wait. Schedule a conversation with Dayton’s leading outpatient spine surgery team and take the first step toward getting back on track.

Vertrae® Surgery Center FAQ

Is spine surgery painful?

Minimally invasive means faster healing and less pain.

When can I return to work?

Some people resume light activities in 1–2 weeks.

Will I need PT?

Possibly. We’ll guide you to in-house or partner options.