Artificial Disc Replacement & Motion Preservation Spine Surgery

Spine Doctor in Lone Tree, CO — Frequently Asked Questions

 

What conditions do you treat?

Our team treats a wide range of spine conditions, including herniated discs, degenerative disc disease, spinal stenosis, and nerve compression affecting the spinal cord. We commonly see patients dealing with chronic neck pain, lower back pain, and radiating nerve symptoms into the arms or legs. As a neurosurgeon near Denver, CO, Dr. Kimball also works closely with referring physicians throughout the region to coordinate care.

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How do I know if I need to see a spine doctor in Lone Tree, CO?

If you're dealing with chronic neck pain, radiating arm or leg symptoms, numbness, or back pain that hasn't improved with rest, physical therapy, or other conservative treatment, it's time to talk to a spine specialist. A thorough evaluation can determine whether your symptoms are coming from a herniated disc, nerve compression, or another issue affecting the spinal cord and surrounding structures. Catching problems early often means more treatment options later.

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What makes DISC Neurosurgery & Spine different from other back surgeons in Colorado?

Dr. Kimball is a neurosurgeon spine specialist in Lone Tree, CO, who is fellowship-trained in both neurosurgery and orthopedic spine surgery, with additional international training in artificial disc replacement and motion-preserving spine surgery. With more than 800 total artificial disc replacements (cervical and lumbar) he takes a motion-preservation-first approach whenever it's clinically appropriate, offering fusion alternatives that include minimally invasive and endoscopic spine surgery. As a trusted spine doctor Lone Tree patients turn to, Dr. Kimball focuses on individualized care, not one-size-fits-all solutions.

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Is spinal fusion my only option for a herniated disc or degenerative disc disease?

Not necessarily. While spinal fusion has long been the standard surgical treatment for certain spine conditions, it isn't the right fit for every patient. As an artificial disc replacement surgeon, Dr. Kimball offers a motion-preserving alternative that removes the damaged disc and replaces it with an artificial one, allowing your spine to keep moving naturally instead of fusing two vertebrae together. Whether fusion, disc replacement, or a non-surgical path is right for you depends on your diagnosis, anatomy, and goals, which is exactly what an evaluation is for.

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Do I need surgery, or can I be treated without it?

It depends on your case. Many patients start with nonsurgical care (physical therapy, medications, and selective injections) before surgical treatment is ever considered. Surgery is typically reserved for cases where conservative treatment hasn't relieved symptoms, or where nerve or spinal cord involvement makes it the safer, more effective route. When surgery is recommended, our goal is always to choose the least invasive, most motion-preserving option that fits your condition.

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What should I expect from a consultation with a spine surgeon in Lone Tree, CO?

Your visit starts with a thorough review of your imaging, symptoms, and medical history. From there, Dr. Kimball will explain your diagnosis in clear, understandable language and discuss every appropriate treatment option, from continued nonsurgical care and regenerative therapies when appropriate, to artificial disc replacement and, when warranted, surgical restoration of motion to your spine. Our online spine evaluation and image review form makes it easy to get started before you ever step into the office.

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How experienced is Dr. Kimball with artificial disc replacement?

With 15 years of experience and more than 500 cervical and 300 lumbar disc replacements performed, Dr. Kimball is recognized as a leader among spine doctors in Colorado for motion-preserving surgery. As a 5280 Top Doctor, he brings both national and international training to every case that walks through our doors.

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How soon can I get back to normal activity after surgery?

Recovery timelines vary by procedure and individual health, but preserving natural spine motion rather than fusing segments often supports a faster return to daily life and the activities you love. After your procedure, your care team will provide a personalized recovery plan and guide you through every step of your postoperative recovery, neuromuscular re-education, and rehabilitation.

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I've already been told I need a spinal fusion. Can I get a second opinion?

Absolutely. Second-opinion evaluations are one of the most common reasons patients come to see us. Dr. Kimball personally reviews your imaging and prior recommendations to determine whether a fusion alternative, such as artificial disc replacement or minimally invasive spine surgery, could preserve your natural motion instead. Many patients who were told fusion was their only option turn out to be candidates for motion-preserving surgical treatment. Submitting our online spine evaluation and image review form is the easiest way to start.​