Specialist Orthopedic Spine Surgeon Dallas, TX

Dr. Michael R. Wheeler MD is a highly skilled orthopaedic spine surgeon based in Dallas, Texas. He graduated with honors with a degree in Finance from the University of Texas at Austin and went on to graduate magna cum laude from UTMB medical school. He completed his orthopaedic surgery residency at John Peter Smith Hospital in Fort Worth, Texas, and pursued his spine surgery fellowship at OHSU in Portland, Oregon.

At the core of Dr. Wheeler’s practice is a commitment to building strong, positive relationships with his patients. He takes the time to understand each patient’s unique situation, working with them to develop individualized treatment plans that meet their specific needs and goals. From diagnosis to treatment to recovery, Dr. Wheeler is with his patients every step of the way.

One of Dr. Wheeler’s primary areas of focus is minimally invasive surgery. He uses the latest technology and techniques to ensure that his patients receive the most effective and least invasive treatment possible. This approach often results in faster recovery times, less pain, and better outcomes overall.

If you’re looking for a trusted, experienced orthopaedic spine surgeon in Dallas, look no further than Dr. Michael R. Wheeler. Contact his office today to schedule a consultation and start on the path to a healthier, more active life.

Conditions Treated By Dr. Michael R. Wheeler

Fellowship-trained Dr. Michael Wheeler is dedicated to offering all patients in Dallas, Texas minimally invasive spine surgery. Therefore, he develops treatment plans for patients with all kinds of spine-related conditions.

Cervical and lumbar Disc Herniation

Cervical and lumbar disc herniations are common spinal conditions that can cause pain, numbness, and weakness in the neck, back, and extremities.

A cervical disc herniation occurs when one of the discs in the neck area of the spine ruptures or bulges, causing pressure on the surrounding nerves. This can lead to pain, numbness, and weakness in the arms, hands, and fingers. In severe cases, it can also cause problems with balance and coordination. Treatment options may include rest, physical therapy, medications, and in some cases, surgery.

A lumbar disc herniation, on the other hand, occurs in the lower back area of the spine. It is characterized by a ruptured or bulging disc that causes pressure on the nerves in the lower back, leading to pain, numbness, and weakness in the legs and feet. Treatment options for lumbar disc herniations may include rest, physical therapy, medications, and in some cases, surgery.

As a spine surgeon, Dr. Michael R. Wheeler specializes in the treatment of cervical and lumbar disc herniations. He uses the latest technology and techniques to provide personalized care that meets each patient’s unique needs and goals. From diagnosis to treatment to recovery, Dr. Wheeler works closely with his patients to ensure the best possible outcomes. If you are suffering from a cervical or lumbar disc herniation, contact Dr. Wheeler’s office today to schedule a consultation and get the help you need to regain your quality of life.

Cervical Myelopathy

Cervical myelopathy is a spinal condition that occurs when the spinal cord in the neck area is compressed or squeezed due to degenerative changes in the spine. This condition can cause a range of symptoms, including pain, stiffness, and weakness in the arms and legs, as well as problems with balance, coordination, and fine motor skills.

Cervical myelopathy is typically caused by age-related degenerative changes in the spine, such as herniated discs, spinal stenosis, and bone spurs. Other less common causes may include trauma, tumors, and infections.

As a spine surgeon, Dr. Michael R. Wheeler is highly experienced in the diagnosis and treatment of cervical myelopathy. He uses the most up to date imaging techniques and other diagnostic tools to accurately diagnose the condition and develop personalized treatment plans that address each patient’s unique needs and goals.

If you are suffering from cervical myelopathy, don’t let it control your life. Contact Dr. Wheeler’s office today to schedule a consultation.

Cervical radiculopathy

Cervical radiculopathy is a condition that occurs when a nerve root in the neck area becomes compressed or irritated. This can lead to a range of symptoms, including pain, numbness, and weakness in the arms, shoulders, and hands. Many patients with cervical radiculopathy do not even have neck pain

Cervical radiculopathy is typically caused by degenerative changes in the spine, such as herniated discs, bone spurs, and spinal stenosis.

Treatment options for cervical radiculopathy may include rest, physical therapy, medications, injections and in some cases, surgery. Dr. Wheeler uses the latest minimally invasive surgical techniques to provide effective relief while minimizing pain, scarring, and recovery time.

If you are suffering from cervical radiculopathy, Contact Dr. Wheeler’s office today to schedule a consultation and start on the path to recovery.

Lumbar spinal stenosis

Lumbar spinal stenosis is a condition that occurs when the spinal canal in the lower back narrows, putting pressure on the nerves and causing a range of symptoms, including pain, numbness, and weakness in the legs and buttocks.

Lumbar spinal stenosis is typically caused by age-related degenerative changes in the spine, such as herniated discs, bone spurs, and thickening of the ligaments that support the spine. This degenerative condition occurs when a narrowed spinal canal exerts external pressure on nerves in the lumbar spine. The pressure results from thickened ligaments, worn-out facet joints, and degenerated discs.

This condition typically causes leg and/or back pain that improves with rest and worsens with physical activity such as standing or walking.

The good news is that lumbar spinal stenosis is a very treatable condition. Contact Dr. Wheeler’s office for a consult if you suffer from spinal stenosis.

Lumbar spondylolisthesis

Spondylolisthesis, sometimes referred to as a sliding spine. Lumbar spondylolisthesis is a condition that occurs when one vertebra in the lower back slips forward over the one below it. This can lead to a range of symptoms, including lower back pain, leg pain, and weakness in the legs. The nerve between the sliding spine results in discomfort that radiates to the hip and leg.

Lumbar spondylolisthesis commonly occurs from a degenerative spine as the spine wears out. Pain from spondylolisthesis can be debilitating.

There are excellent treatment options if you are suffering from spondylolisthesis. Come talk to Dr. Wheeler to get his opinion on what is best for you.

Scoliosis

Adult scoliosis is a type of scoliosis that occurs in individuals over the age of 18. This condition can cause a range of symptoms, including back pain, leg pain, and limited mobility, and can have a significant impact on quality of life.

Adult scoliosis can be caused by a variety of factors, including the natural aging process, degenerative changes in the spine, and prior spine surgeries or injuries. In some cases, scoliosis that was present in childhood may continue to progress into adulthood.

As a spine surgeon, Dr. Michael R. Wheeler specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of adult scoliosis. He uses advanced imaging techniques and other diagnostic tools to accurately diagnose the condition and develop personalized treatment plans that address each patient’s unique needs and goals.

Treatment options for adult scoliosis may depend on the severity of the curvature and the patient’s age. For mild to moderate cases, treatment may involve physical therapy, pain management, and lifestyle modifications. In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary to correct the curvature and alleviate symptoms.

Dr. Wheeler uses the latest minimally invasive surgical techniques to provide effective relief while minimizing pain, scarring, and recovery time. If you are suffering from adult scoliosis, don’t let it control your life. Contact Dr. Wheeler’s office today to schedule a consultation and start on the path to a healthier, more active life.

Compression fractures

Compression fractures are a type of spinal fracture that occurs when one or more vertebrae in the spine collapse or become compressed. This can cause a range of symptoms, including back pain, limited mobility, and in severe cases, nerve damage.

Compression fractures can occur due to a variety of factors, including osteoporosis, trauma, and tumors. In individuals with osteoporosis, the bones become weakened and brittle, making them more susceptible to fractures

As a spine surgeon, Dr. Michael R. Wheeler specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of compression fractures. He uses advanced imaging techniques and other diagnostic tools to accurately diagnose the condition and develop personalized treatment plans that address each patient’s unique needs and goals.

Treatment options for compression fractures may depend on the severity of the fracture and the patient’s age and overall health. For mild to moderate cases, treatment may involve pain management, physical therapy, and lifestyle modifications. In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary to stabilize the spine and prevent further damage.

Dr. Wheeler uses the latest minimally invasive surgical techniques to provide effective relief while minimizing pain, scarring, and recovery time. If you are suffering from a compression fracture, don’t let it control your life. Contact Dr. Wheeler’s office today to schedule a consultation and start on the path to a healthier, more active life.

Back or neck pain

Not everyone has a diagnosis for their pain, and that is okay. Back and neck pain are common conditions that affect many individuals at some point in their lives. These conditions can range from mild to severe and can have a significant impact on quality of life.

Back pain can be caused by a variety of factors, including poor posture, overuse, injury, and degenerative changes in the spine. Neck pain can also be caused by similar factors, as well as by conditions such as herniated discs and cervical stenosis.

As a spine surgeon, Dr. Michael R. Wheeler specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of back and neck pain. He uses advanced imaging techniques and other diagnostic tools to accurately diagnose the condition and develop personalized treatment plans that address each patient’s unique needs and goals.

Treatment options for back and neck pain may depend on the severity of the condition and the patient’s age and overall health. For mild to moderate cases, treatment may involve pain management, physical therapy, and lifestyle modifications. In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary to alleviate pain and restore function.

Dr. Wheeler uses the latest minimally invasive surgical techniques to provide effective relief while minimizing pain, scarring, and recovery time. If you are suffering from back or neck pain, don’t let it control your life. Contact Dr. Wheeler’s office today to schedule a consultation and start on the path to a healthier, more active life.

Procedures Used

As a top Dallas spine surgeon Dr. Wheeler prides himself on providing patient-centered care, utilizing the latest surgical techniques and technologies to deliver individualized treatment plans for each of his patients. With a focus on minimally invasive procedures, Dr. Wheeler strives to alleviate pain, restore function, and improve quality of life for his patients. With his extensive training and expertise in the field of spine surgery, you can trust that you are in good hands with Dr. Wheeler.

Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF)

Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) is a surgical procedure used to treat conditions affecting the neck, such as herniated discs, spinal stenosis, and cervical radiculopathy The procedure involves making a small incision in the front of the neck and removing the damaged disc or portion of the disc that is causing the problem. This helps to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerve roots and reduce pain and other symptoms.

Once the damaged disc is removed, the surgeon will use a spacer with or without a small metal plate to fuse the adjacent vertebrae together. The fusion process helps to stabilize the spine and prevent further damage.

This procedure is often done as an outpatient, and has a quick recovery. Contact our office for more information.

Cervical disc replacement

Also known as cervical disc arthroplasty, the disc replacement procedure helps relieve pressure from affected nerves by eliminating the degenerated or herniated disc in the cervical spine, then replacing it with an artificial disc.

The spacer used in this case is mobile to maintain mobility and helps eliminate neck and arm discomfort.

Come talk to Dr. Wheeler to see if you are a good candidate for cervical disc arthroplasty (replacement)

Anterior lumbar interbody fusion (ALIF)

This surgical procedure helps eliminate leg and lower back pain resulting from different issues in the spine Anterior lumbar interbody fusion (ALIF) is a surgical procedure used to treat conditions affecting the lower back, such as degenerative disc disease, spondylolisthesis, or spinal stenosis. The procedure involves making a small incision in the front of the abdomen and removing the damaged disc or portion of the disc that is causing the problem.

Once the damaged disc is removed, Dr. Wheeler will use a spacer (cage) to hold the bones in the appropriate position. By putting the bones in a better position, this takes the pressure off the nerves and improves the leg pain.

ALIFs are powerful procedures and most often are performed at L5/S1 and/or L4/5

Come talk to Dr. Wheeler to see if an ALIF will benefit you.

Lumbar laminectomy

A lumbar laminectomy is a surgical procedure used to treat conditions affecting the lower back, such as spinal stenosis or herniated discs. The procedure involves making an incision in the lower back and removing a portion of the lamina, which is the bony arch that covers the spinal canal. This helps to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerve roots and reduce pain and other symptoms.

Once the lamina is removed, the surgeon may also remove any bone spurs or other tissue that is causing pressure on the spinal cord or nerve roots. In some cases, the surgeon may also perform a spinal fusion procedure to stabilize the spine.

As a skilled orthopaedic spine surgeon, Dr. Michael R. Wheeler has extensive experience performing lumbar laminectomy procedures. He uses the latest surgical techniques and technologies to minimize pain, scarring, and recovery time while maximizing the effectiveness of the procedure. If you are suffering from lower back pain or other symptoms, contact Dr. Wheeler’s office today to schedule a consultation and learn more about your treatment options

Lateral Interbody Fusion / Oblique Lateral Interbody fusion (LLIF/OLIF)

The oblique lumbar interbody fusion (OLIF) is a surgical procedure used to treat conditions affecting the lower back, such as degenerative disc disease or spinal stenosis. The procedure involves making a small incision in the side of the abdomen and reaching the spine through the retroperitoneal space, which is a natural tunnel that runs alongside the spine. This approach allows the surgeon to avoid major blood vessels and organs, reducing the risk of complications.

Once the surgeon reaches the spine, he or she will remove the damaged disc or portion of the disc that is causing the problem. This helps to relieve pressure on the nerves to reduce pain and other symptoms.

Dr, Wheeler will then use a bone graft or a small metal cage to fuse the adjacent vertebrae together. The fusion process helps to stabilize the spine and prevent further damage.

Minimally Invasive Microdiscectomy

A MIS microdiscectomy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to treat herniated discs in the lower back. The procedure involves making a small incision in the skin and using specialized instruments to remove the herniated portion of the disc that is pressing on the spinal nerve. This helps to relieve pain, numbness, and other symptoms associated with the herniated disc.

MIS microdiscectomy is typically performed on an outpatient basis, meaning that the patient can go home the same day as the procedure. Recovery time is usually shorter than with traditional open surgery, and patients can often return to normal activities within a few weeks.

As a skilled orthopaedic spine surgeon, Dr. Michael R. Wheeler has extensive experience performing MIS microdiscectomy procedures. He uses the latest surgical techniques and technologies to minimize pain, scarring, and recovery time while maximizing the effectiveness of the procedure. If you are suffering from lower back pain or other symptoms, contact Dr. Wheeler’s office today to schedule a consultation and learn more about your treatment options.

Navigated Spinal Fusion

Spinal navigation technology is a sophisticated tool used by orthopaedic spine surgeons to enhance the safety and accuracy of spinal surgeries. This technology uses advanced imaging techniques to create a detailed map of the patient’s spine, which can be used to guide the surgical instruments.

With spinal navigation technology, the surgeon can visualize the exact location of the surgical instruments in real-time, allowing for precise placement and minimizing the risk of injury to adjacent structures such as nerves and blood vessels. This technology also helps to ensure that the implant or graft is placed in the correct location, reducing the risk of complications.

In addition to enhancing the accuracy of the procedure, spinal navigation technology can also improve patient safety. By providing the surgeon with a clear and detailed map of the surgical site, this technology can reduce the risk of surgical errors and improve the overall outcome of the procedure.

As a skilled orthopaedic spine surgeon, Dr. Michael R. Wheeler is committed to utilizing the latest surgical technologies, including spinal navigation technology, to ensure the safety and effectiveness of his patients’ procedures. If you are in need of spinal surgery, contact Dr. Wheeler’s office today to schedule a consultation and learn more about your treatment options.

Posterior cervical decompression and fusion

Posterior cervical decompression and fusion is a surgical procedure used to treat a range of conditions affecting the neck, such as spinal stenosis, kyphosis, myelopathy among others.. The procedure involves making an incision in the back of the neck and removing any bone or soft tissue that is compressing the spinal cord or nerve roots. This helps to relieve pressure on the affected nerves and reduce pain and other symptoms.

Once the decompression is complete, Dr. Wheeler will use screws and rods to stabilize the spine and promote fusion, or the growth of new bone tissue. The fusion process helps to strengthen and stabilize the spine and prevent further damage.

As a highly skilled orthopaedic spine surgeon, Dr. Michael R. Wheeler has extensive experience performing posterior cervical decompression and fusion procedures. He uses the latest surgical techniques and technologies to minimize pain, scarring, and recovery time while maximizing the effectiveness of the procedure. If you are suffering from neck pain or other symptoms, contact Dr. Wheeler’s office today to schedule a consultation and learn more about your treatment options

Why Have Spine Surgery With Dallas, Texas Surgeon Dr. Michael R. Wheeler?

• Individualized care and compassion for every person that he treats
• Extensive training and experience
• Up-to-date technology for diagnosis and treatment
• Personalized treatment plans
• Communication and transparency
• Minimally invasive options