The Spinal Research Foundation is a non-profit organization
that was established by Thomas C. Schuler, M.D., F.A.C.S., in 2002. The Foundation’s
mission is to improve spinal health care through research
and education.
Even today spinal health care is in its infancy. Human beings have
been suffering from neck and back problems for thousands of years; however, the
first spinal surgery was only performed 90 years ago. It has become commonplace
within the past four decades. Unfortunately, little scientific research was
conducted prior to 1990.
As a resident at that time, Dr. Schuler was involved
in the initial landmark spinal research. His passion for research and innovation
was ignited. Through
his visionary leadership he founded The Spinal Research Foundation to drive
the transformation of spinal health care from a specialty filled with excellent
artisans to one of compassionate fact-based medicine.
Since its inception, The Spinal Research Foundation has
produced significant scientific research. This is compelling information,
which has been utilized to enhance spinal health care. New technologies,
treatments and techniques are the results of the research conducted by The
Spinal Research Foundation.
The Spinal Research Foundation's clinical researchers maintain
the goal of improving the science of medicine, so as to improve the health
and lives of Americans.
The Spinal Research Foundation is governed by a volunteer board of directors.
Guy E. Beatty
Chairman of the Board
Thomas C. Schuler, M.D., F.A.C.S.
Spinal Surgeon
President
Henry H. Copeland
Treasurer
Michael H. Howland
Secretary
Andrew Greene
VP Merrill Lynch
Financial Direction
Currently The Foundation has four staff members:
Brian R. Subach M.D., F.A.C.S., Director of Research
Anne G. Copay, Ph.D, Associate
Director of Research
Marcus Martin, Research
Associate
Ashley Holmberg, Research Assistant