News Summary
A Rock Hill woman, Sue Mundy, has found relief from 30 years of chronic back pain following innovative robotic spine surgery. After enduring multiple surgeries and medications with little success, she underwent a cutting-edge procedure that significantly improved her quality of life, allowing her to return to activities like running. This advancement in robotic technology for spine surgery provides hope for many suffering from chronic pain.
Rock Hill Woman Regains Mobility and Freedom Through Innovative Robotic Spine Surgery After 30 Years of Chronic Pain
A Rock Hill woman has finally found relief from three decades of chronic back pain thanks to an innovative robotic spine surgery. Sue Mundy, who endured ten surgeries and ongoing pain medication with little permanent relief, recently underwent a cutting-edge procedure that has significantly improved her quality of life.
For years, Mundy was confined by debilitating back issues, including slipped discs and severe pain that left her unable to sit, stand, or walk without assistance. Her struggles escalated to the point where she needed emergency medical assistance after being unable to get out of bed one morning. This history of debilitating pain halted her once active lifestyle, which included running, and left her relying on medications that offered no lasting solution.
Advanced Imaging and Robotics in Surgery
In search of a solution, Mundy consulted with Dr. Joseph Cheatle, a neurosurgeon at Piedmont Medical Center. Comprehensive advanced imaging revealed that she was suffering from serious spinal conditions, including stenosis and spondylosis. Dr. Cheatle recommended a new type of robotic surgery that utilizes a system called Globus with Excelsius 3D imaging, which showcases enhanced precision in surgical treatments. This technology allows for smaller incisions, resulting in less trauma to the body and faster recovery times.
Piedmont Medical Center was among the first healthcare facilities in the Carolinas to adopt this revolutionary robotic surgical technology. The use of robotics in spine surgery marks a significant advancement in how chronic back pain can be treated effectively and with precision.
Rapid Recovery and Return to Normal Life
Less than a week after the robotic surgery, Mundy experienced remarkable improvement, managing to stop using a walker for assistance. This rapid recovery process reflects the effectiveness of the advanced surgical techniques used in her procedure. Months following her surgery, Mundy reported being completely pain-free and has successfully discontinued all pain-related medications.
With her mobility restored, Mundy plans to return to running in the coming months, aiming to reclaim her active lifestyle that had been disrupted for so long. Her experiences underscore the significant impact that robotic spine surgery can have on individuals suffering from chronic pain, as well as the broader implications this advancement may hold for the treatment of similar conditions.
Context of Chronic Back Pain Treatments
Mundy’s journey highlights an ongoing challenge in the treatment of chronic back pain that millions of people face. Traditionally, avenues for managing such pain have included surgical options, physical therapy, and medication, but many patients, like Mundy, find themselves trapped in a cycle of temporary relief and persistent discomfort. The introduction of robotic technology in surgical practices offers new hope for effective and lasting solutions.
As technology continues to evolve, the medical community is optimistic about the potential for robotic-assisted surgeries to become standard for treating complex spinal issues, thus providing patients with a chance for improved mobility and a better quality of life.
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Additional Resources
- WSOC-TV: Rock Hill Woman Finds Relief After Decades of Back Pain
- KTNV: A Game Changer: Las Vegas Hospital Breaks Ground with Robotic Assisted Spine Surgery
- Hudson Valley Magazine: Hudson Valley Top Doctors
- CT Insider: Connecticut’s Top Doctors 2021
- WSOC-TV: Shooting Leads to Chase, Car Crash in Rock Hill
Author: STAFF HERE ROCK HILL
The ROCK HILL STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERERockHill.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Rock Hill, York County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Come-See-Me Festival, Rock Hill Arts Festival, and motorsport events at the Rock Hill Velodrome. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Rock Hill Chamber of Commerce and the Culture & Heritage Museums, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and technology that power the local economy such as 3D Systems and Comporium. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.



