Spinal surgery helps relieve local math teacher's chronic back pain

For over 35 years, Stephanie has been a dedicated math teacher, but for much of that time, she silently endured chronic back pain that affected every part of her life. Simple activities like sitting, walking, or even sleeping had become painful challenges.

Her journey to healing began when she met Dr. Frank Farokhi, a neurosurgeon at Ascension Sacred Heart Neurosurgery in Pensacola, who specializes in advanced spinal procedures. After evaluating her condition, Dr. Farokhi recommended an Oblique Lumbar Interbody Fusion (OLIF) , a minimally invasive, lateral spinal fusion technique designed to relieve pressure on the nerves, stabilize the spine, and restore mobility.

“Myself and my colleague are the only surgeons in the region offering this specialized procedure. I use OLIF to access the spine from the side of the body with less disruption to muscles and tissues,” explained Dr. Farokhi. “This means less pain, fewer complications, and a faster recovery for patients as our goal is always to treat not just the condition, but the whole person.”

Stephanie appreciated the care she received. “I cannot say enough about the incredible skill and compassion of Dr. Farokhi and the wonderful care I received from his team,” Stephanie shared.

“This procedure helps patients like Stephanie regain function and return to the activities they love,” says Dr. Farokhi. “Our goal is always to treat not just the condition, but the whole person.”

After surgery, Stephanie’s pain was gone. “I have my life back,” she said. “Dr. Farokhi told me I would walk with a straight spine again and that gave me hope. His skill and genuine care made all the difference in my recovery.”

Today, Stephanie is back to doing what she loves: hiking, swimming, enjoying time with her family, doing fitness boot camps, and inspiring students in the classroom. 

“They didn’t just fix my back, they gave me my quality of life back. I’m thankful every day that I chose Dr. Farokhi,” she said.

If severe neck or back pain is limiting your life, you’re not alone, and you’re not without options. As the regional leaders in spine surgery outcomes, our expert team of neurosurgeons offer advanced techniques for safer surgeries and faster recoveries.