Michael Jefferson Spitnale, MD

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