
Michael Jefferson Spitnale, MD
Orthopedic SurgerySpine Surgery
Highlights
Age Groups Seen
- Adults
- Adults 65 and up
Languages
- English
Gender
MaleAbout Michael Jefferson Spitnale
Choosing the right doctor is an important decision, and my goal is to make that choice easier by helping you understand who I am—not just as a spine surgeon, but as a person who is deeply committed to helping patients navigate their pain, treatment options, and long‑term health.
My path to medicine began far from a traditional route. As a first‑generation college student working in a factory that produced roll‑up doors for semi‑trucks, I saw firsthand how physically demanding labor affects the body and how difficult it can be to access reliable medical guidance. Those early experiences shaped my commitment to breaking cycles, serving others, and becoming the kind of physician who listens deeply and meets patients where they are.
I earned a degree in chemical engineering before pursuing medicine because I’ve always been drawn to problem‑solving, innovation, and working with my hands. Orthopaedic spine surgery became the perfect combination of these strengths, allowing me to integrate engineering principles—such as process improvement and precision—into compassionate, patient‑centered care.
During my Spine Fellowship and my Full-Time Practice after I completed Fellowship at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, I was fortunate to train under exceptional mentors who helped reshape how I approach every patient encounter. I learned that the most important step in caring for someone with spine concerns is not assuming the problem—but working alongside the patient to truly understand it. That means listening carefully, asking the right questions, and being humble enough to reevaluate when something doesn’t add up. This shift toward curiosity and empathy fundamentally changed my practice philosophy and continues to guide my clinical and research efforts.
As a spine surgeon, my mission is simple: to help you get back to the life you want to live with clarity, confidence, and the best evidence‑based care available. Whether your concerns involve back pain, nerve symptoms, or complex spine pathology and deformity, I will work with you to find the source of the issue, explain your options in clear language, and build a treatment plan that respects your goals.
What drives me every day—both in clinic and in research—is the desire to better understand spine conditions so we can improve outcomes for every patient who walks through the door. Your concerns are real, your story matters, and you deserve a doctor who is committed to both precision and compassion.
Thank you for considering me as your physician. I look forward to partnering with you on your path to healing.
Publications
Video
Locations
- Prisma Health Orthopedics – 14 Med Park
- 14 Richland Medical Park Drive, Suite 200, Columbia, SC 29203
- Get Directions
- phone: 803-296-7846
- fax: 803-296-9699
- Prisma Health Orthopedics – Lexington
- 104 Saluda Pointe Drive, Lexington, SC 29072
- Get Directions
- phone: 803-296-7846
- fax: 803-296-9699
- Prisma Health Orthopedics – 300 Parkridge
- 300 Palmetto Health Parkway, Suite 200, Columbia, SC 29212
- Get Directions
- phone: 803-296-7846
- fax: 803-296-9699
- Prisma Health Orthopedics – 100 Parkridge
- 100 Palmetto Health Parkway, Suite 250, Columbia, SC 29212
- Get Directions
- phone: 803-296-7846
- fax: 803-296-9699
- Prisma Health Orthopedics – 100 Parkridge
- 100 Palmetto Health Parkway, Suite 320, Columbia, SC 29212
- Get Directions
- phone: 803-296-7846
- fax: 803-296-9699
- Prisma Health Orthopedics–Northeast Medical Park
- 1120 Roberts Branch Parkway, Columbia, SC 29203
- Get Directions
- phone: 803-296-7846
- fax: 803-296-9699
- Prisma Health Orthopedics – 2 Med Park
- 2 Medical Park Road, Suite 104, Columbia, SC 29203
- Get Directions
- phone: 803-296-7846
- fax: 803-296-9699
Expertise
Education
- Medical School: University of Kentucky College of Medicine
- Residency: Prisma Health/University of South Carolina School of Medicine Columbia, Orthopaedic Surgery
- Fellowship: University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Orthopedic Spine Surgery
Board Certifications
- -: American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery
Insurance
- Absolute Total Care - Ambetter
- Absolute Total Care Medicaid
- Aetna
- Aetna Medicare
- Allwell Medicare - Absolute Total Care
- BCBS
- BCBS Blue Essentials
- BCBS Exclusive Reedy
- BCBS PPC
- BlueChoice Health Plan
- BlueChoice Medicaid - Healthy Blue
- BlueChoiceMyChoice Advantage
- Carelon Behavioral Health
- Cigna
- Cigna Medicare
- Companion Benefit Alternatives
- CorVel Workers Compensation
- Evernorth Behavioral Health
- First Health Network
- Healthy Connections
- Healthy Connections Medicaid SC
- Humana - Healthy Horizons
- Humana Choice Care
- Humana Medicare
- Liberty Advantage
- Logistics Health
- Magellan
- MedCost
- Medicare
- Molina
- Molina Medicaid
- Multiplan/PHCS
- NHC Advantage
- Optum Behavioral Health
- Promise Health Plan
- Select Health Medicaid
- Select Health Medicare
- Spectera
- State Health Plan
- TriCare
- UnitedHealthcare
- UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage
- Veterans Affairs Community Care Network - VACCN
- Wellcare Medicare
Ratings & Reviews
4.7 out of 5
140 ratings, 34 reviewsThe Patient Satisfaction Rating is derived from patient surveys based on the likelihood to recommend this provider’s office.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 4/2/2026
With my initial visit, the doctor mentioned after wearing the boot I would be wearing a shoe insert. I had a soon just like the boot that was something I would get at the facility. However, at my second appointment that's when they wanted to provide me with informational Amazon to purchase the shoe insert. I was disappointed because that might lengthen the time I would be in the boot, waiting for the shoe insert to arrive. I think they should've given me that information about Amazon, so I could have purchased the shoe insert and have it in time for when I could come out of the boot.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 4/2/2026
It was fantastic care
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 3/29/2026
I checked in 20 min early, but was not called in until 20 min after appointment time
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 3/29/2026
My appt was 3pm and I sid not see the doctor until 4pm. They said they were busy that day.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 4/2/2026
There was nothing more that could have been done on a first visit.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 3/20/2026
Did not follow through with a request for a prescription for a walker.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 3/19/2026
Very pleased with all services.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 3/18/2026
It's not that they didn't do it. It's just that I didn't realize I had to have two operations.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 3/17/2026
There is nothing else the nurses, technicians or doctor could do to make the visit better. Even the trainee was well knowledged and pleasant. Also I can give a shout-out to those at the front desks - some days that isn't the best position to be in.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 3/11/2026
Everything was done with respect and I was in so much pain before I came in and see Dr. Michael and now my pain has lessened and sometimes I don't have no pain coming from a pinched nerve in my neck down my arm. He most definitely got to the problem and I've been going to see other orthopedians but they didn't get to the problem and he did get to the problem. So that is a plus for me and I appreciate all the service and understanding and the medicine that he gave me. Thank you.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 3/6/2026
Prisma Health Care, did everything right in regards to their patients health care. I applaud them all Thank you I appreciate their efforts
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 3/5/2026
The entire staff deserves ??????????. I have no complaints! I was treated exceptionally well!
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 2/27/2026
No problem, everyone was very courteous.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 2/27/2026
I was treated nice & enjoyed the my visit.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 2/26/2026
The tabled with all the questions.i don't think it legal to want the patients sexual preferences..
- 4 out of 5 starsReviewed on 2/17/2026
Order another MRI or CT and not just X-ray since it doesn't show herniated disc soft tissue issue and muscle strains. The MRI that was discussed was from May or June 2025. My symptoms have change with increased pain. What I will say is that the medication prescribed seem to be helping in a way that nothing else has at this point and I am so relieved to just be in less pain an able to get a bit more rest so I'm thankful for that.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 2/15/2026
Neat and clean environment and professional staff !!! Adding wending machines for coffee and soda recommended.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 2/1/2026
Great visit. Everyone was nice ,friendly and knowledgeable.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 2/1/2026
I honestly can't think of anything right now. I think the staff covered everything.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 1/30/2026
Only issue is the amount of time before I can get an appointment from injection team.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 1/27/2026
I have no suggestions; everyone was professional and supportive
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 1/18/2026
Everything was Great!!!
- 4 out of 5 starsReviewed on 1/16/2026
I am a new patient. I believe the doctor did the best with the information he had. Trust will come. Super, nice facility. Friendly staff. The resident and doctor were both trying to help me find resolution to my problem.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 12/28/2025
Dr. Spitnale was absolutely wonderful and very knowledgeable in reviewing my record and explaining to me what was going on with my injury! I was very impressed with him! He was brilliant, patient and compassionate and I believe he would render great care to help me!
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 12/21/2025
Everything and everything was great! ??????????
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 12/18/2025
Great patient care and support.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 12/17/2025
To me they did a good job, so they don't need no improvement or anything
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 12/17/2025
Have no complaints
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 12/28/2025
Can't think of anything better
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 12/15/2025
I believe that you treated me with respect and listen to what I had to say. That goes a long way
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 12/11/2025
Check in counter needs more professional people and more courtesy. When I checked in at the orthopedic station 200.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 12/11/2025
Took time to make sure my questions were answered
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 12/11/2025
Everyone i interacted with was very respectful.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 11/30/2025
Everything was great. I had no problem