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Dr. Herzog Testimonials

I have had lower back pain every day for over 35 years. The pain had increased within the past year to being unbearable and showed no signs of improving regardless of what I did. I had trouble walking, standing and had to give up golf and fishing because I could not sit or stand very long.

In April of 2017 I met with Dr. Herzog and Rick Varone, RPA-C at the Saratoga Spine office in Glens Falls, NY where they explained the recommended procedure (Spinal Fusion) and explain it in detail. I had a second opinion and then decided to go with Dr. Herzog for the surgery which turned out to be an excellent decision.

On May 1st. of this year I had a spinal fusion performed by Dr. Herzog at Saratoga Hospital and almost immediately following surgery I had relief from the daily back pain I had endured for over 35 years. It is now over two months since the surgery and I am feeling great with no back pain.

I cannot thank Dr. Herzog, Rick Varone RPA-C, the Saratoga Spine Staff and all the other health care professionals at Saratoga Hospital who made my short stay and surgery at Saratoga Hospital so successful. I cannot thank them enough for helping me get my life back.

~Chuck


 

I had struggled w neck and shoulder pain for many, many years. Regular visits to the chiropractor and then to a variety of physical therapists, had kept the pain somewhat in check. But as I continued to age, I was not so lucky. After a lack of success from physical therapy, 2x/wk, I was referred for pain management. My pain was relentless and was now accompanied by frequent migraines. Botox injections proved to be useless so I took the steps to seek out Dr Herzog, who had recently repaired my mothers lifetime back pain problem. He had also successfully repaired my aunt’s horrible back pain, so I was confident in his ability to help me too.

I was absolutely right! After having undergone a cervical spine fusion, I am now 98% healthier, (after so many years of muscle spasms, it seems as though those muscles have a memory for that old pain-so in times of stress or after a bad nights sleep, I do feel a resemblance to the old pain but NOTHING to the extent as prior to surgery).

Dr Herzog, along with Rick, have been wonderful through the entire process. They were able to explain my problem and how it was going to be resolved, in terms I could easily understand. My recovery was quick and my scar is “invisible!”

Should I ever have issues with my neck or back in the future, (knock on wood), I will not hesitate to call Dr Herzog again. He is most knowledgeable, professional and his team is so “down to Earth.” I strongly recommend him to anyone considering surgery. You will not be sorry.

~Andrea


 

Dr. John Herzog is a highly-skilled surgeon who changed my life.

At age 13, I was diagnosed with scoliosis. Pain was simply a part of my life from a very young age. Over the years, the pain increased to the point that it was significantly impacting my quality of life, and, eventually, walking even short distances resulted in extreme pain. At that point, I decided to seek treatment.

At my initial consultation, I found Dr. Herzog (and his staff) to be very thorough and approachable. He explained that the severity of my curvature would most likely require surgery, but, before jumping into that, he suggested that I explore non-surgical options to bring relief. He referred me to a pain management specialist, which did help temporarily, but, ultimately, it became clear that corrective surgery would be necessary.

Naturally, I was very hesitant regarding the prospect of surgery. Often, scoliosis surgery is performed over two days and involves both posterior and anterior incisions. Dr. Herzog explained that he would prefer to perform one very long surgery, using a posterior surgical approach only. He very clearly explained the surgical process, as well as what to expect post-operatively and during the recovery period. Dr. Herzog and his surgical team spent over 12 hours on my fusion, correcting my curvature from 56 degrees to 16 degrees.

Today, I lead a very active life. Dr. Herzog’s skill, experience, and professional approach are the primary reasons for my successful recovery. I would highly recommend Dr. Herzog and his staff at Saratoga Spine to anyone facing the prospect of spinal surgery.

~Mary


 

For years I suffered from lower back pain, only to have the pain worsen over the years. At first, it was minor discomfort. However, more recently the pain levels increased making the simplest tasks become unbearable. Standing for more than 5 minutes became intolerable and sleeping wasn’t any better; averaging less than 3-4 hours per night. I was trying everything I could to manage the pain: physical & massage therapy, steroid injections and opioid use with no success.

I’m fairly new to the area and I was recommended to the Saratoga Spine Center/Dr. Herzog. My first appointment, I met with Rick Varone and I can’t say enough about Rick, the time he spent with my wife and I, explaining our options. X-Rays and MRI’s were completed and I was diagnosed with Lumbar Spondylolisthesis and surgery was recommended. To be honest, at first we were a bit skeptical and anxious to have the surgery. After meeting with Dr. Herzog and the time he took to explain the procedure I was confident that he was the right choice to perform my surgery.

I had my surgery on August 29th, 2016…six months removed, I feel great! I have no pain in my lower back. I’m able to do the things I love: playing with my kids, walking/hiking, swimming, golf and so much more. I am pain-free and I cannot thank Dr. Herzog, Rick and the staff of the Saratoga Spine Center enough. You not only changed my life, you have changed the direction of my family’s life and for that, I am forever grateful!

~Bill


 

My association with Dr. John C. Herzog and Saratoga Spine has spanned just short of 7 years.  Over this time, I have found Dr. Herzog to be a mild-mannered, immensely skilled surgeon who is a consummate professional.  He has carefully surrounded himself with a friendly, highly competent and motivated staff that mirror Dr. Herzog’s high level of professionalism.

In September of 2010, I was diagnosed with severe degenerative disc disease, with a prognosis of possible paralysis within 6 months.  Considering the severity of my condition and the complexity of the surgery, I was referred to Dr. Herzog.  Because of the urgency of my situation, my surgery was quickly scheduled and, on October 12, 2010, Dr. Herzog performed an anterior cervical discectomy and fusion involving 8 discs and 7 vertebrae. It was explained it was possible that, even with the surgery, I could require the use of a walker for the rest of my life.

Two days following an 11.5 hour surgery, I walked out the front door of Saratoga Hospital under my own volition.  In May 2016, I had a posterior spinal fusion in the lumbar region, again with the same outstanding results.

Today, I remain a very thankful, fully functional and active soon-to-be 71-year-old with no restrictions, enjoying life with my wife, children, and grandchildren. Without Dr. John Herzog and Saratoga Spine, my life would have been very different. For this, I will be forever grateful.

~Richard


 

To “Big John” Herzog,

We want to thank you for giving us a way of life worth living. To be pain-free since my surgery is nothing short of a miracle to me. My wife and I will be forever greatly appreciative. You’ve made it so that every day is Christmas.

~Ron H.


 

Dear Dr. Herzog,

I wanted to send you a note to say thank you so very much for making my spine surgery such a great experience.

I truly appreciate your kindness, generosity, but most of all — your professionalism.

With Thanks,

~Tom P.


 

10.31.2016

Dear Dr. Herzog and Rick,

I don’t know how to thank you for the patience and consideration you gave me. The pain is finally going away.

It was a long time, approx a yr. that I had that pain which limited my activities. Hopefully, maybe after healing, I can kayak and go back to hiking. My two favorite tings.

You are for sure two of the nicest and professional men that I have met in a long time.

In Glens Falls they would have passed me over as a number (no kidding). I commend you both. A lot of professional people in the G.F. & Queensbury area have had very nice things to say about both of you, which is a plus.

I am sending you my husband. His back is a mess. Thank you again! You have made me a happy camper.

~ Heather L.


 

My story began about 5 years ago when I developed a decrease in mobility of my lower back and increased stiffness. These symptoms continued to worsen, and eventually, I had significant pain in both buttocks and legs.

I had an MRI performed and was sent to pain management.  I followed with pain management for 2 and 1/2 years, receiving non-steroidal medications and several rounds of steroid injections in my back. I regularly attended Physical Therapy and also tried Yoga with little 1mprovement. After 2 more MRI’s and a failed attempt at Discography, my pain management physician referred me to Dr. Herzog for a surgical consult.

My 35 years of R.N. experience added to my fear and apprehension, as I was well aware of the risks and extensive rehab associated with back surgery. My husband accompanied me to the consult with Dr. Herzog.  It did not take us long to realize that Dr. Herzog was the surgeon we wanted to do my surgery. He took several x ­ rays and personally reviewed my MRI’s. His Knowledge, Expertise, and Confidence were evident.  In addition, he kindly and intently listened to my 5-year story of back difficulties.  His office was very busy yet he spent a long time with us, carefully answering our many questions.

My surgery was performed without complication on Jan. 30th and I am well on my way to recovery.

I would be remiss if I did not mention the exceptional P.A.’s, Chris and Rick, who work with Dr. Herzog.

The office is warm and comfortable, and the office staff are all above and beyond competent and efficient!!!   So friendly and caring!

I have worked with many different physicians in various capacities throughout the many years that I have been a nurse. I can honestly say Dr. Herzog and his staff are among the best I’ve known!!!

˜Theresa S.


 

Dave-Hamlin and his wifeTo Dr. John C. Herzog, Rick Varone, RPA-C & All The Staff at Saratoga Spine,

Dave and I would like to express our greatest thanks and appreciation to Dr. Herzog for the exceptional care we received when Dave had cervical surgery at Saratoga Hospital on 2/25/16.

Previously Dr. Herzog preformed a laminectomy on Dave in August 2014. We knew then, we were in exceptional hands. Our confidence level and respect for this doctor is incredible.

We would like to extend our appreciation to all the staff at Saratoga Spine with their dedication and determination to have everything done efficiently and professionally.This includes scheduling appointments, arranging hospital times and handling insurance policy approvals with seamless effort.

Let us not forget to thank the wonderful and professional Staff at the Saratoga Hospital working with Dr. Herzog. I thank each and everyone involved in the excellent and compassionate care I received.

Thank you,
˜Dave H.


 

Freemont-YoungI have had surgery with Dr. Herzog and he is a great man. He does what he says he can do. He also has a good sense of humor.

I recommend him to everyone.

˜Freemont Y.


 

Richard-HelenekI’ve been an electrical contractor for 50 years, so my back has been through a lot. But this time was different. I was in pain for a year. I couldn’t sleep. It was bad. I tried the shots, but that didn’t really get the job done. I knew I had to do something.

Surgery with Dr. Herzog changed my life. I spent one day in the hospital. It was about a week that I was in a little pain from the operation. Then I had my life back. Today I’m back on the job.

˜Richard H., Gansevoort, NY


 

Kathy-ClothierWhen I went to see Dr. Herzog I was suffering from spondylolisthesis. I used to live a very active life, riding horses, doing a lot of snowmobiling, but mostly now I was just dealing with pain. I could hardly get in and out of the car. It had been about a year of pain and I’d tried everything when I finally said ‘I just can’t do this anymore.’

The surgery made an unbelievable difference. I’m even able to go kayaking now. I’m so appreciative of what Dr. Herzog has done for me.

˜Kathy C., Corinth, NY


 

Maryann-WeihI was collapsing mid-stride when I was walking my dog. I couldn’t even go a half-mile. It caused so much pain I’d have to lay down for the rest of the day.

Now I can walk two miles in the morning and still go shopping and do chores. The incredible spasms are gone. The depression from the constant pain is gone.

My only regret is that I waited so long to see Dr. Herzog and have the surgery. It’s been a miracle in my life.

˜Maryann W., Queensbury


 

Mark-LucianoAfter the car accident I was in, I’d been in horrible pain for years. I’d gone the pain management route and taken the injections. The pain just wouldn’t quit.

Dr. Herzog first did the surgery. It was the best thing I could ever have done. It changed my life.

˜Mark L., Saratoga Springs


 

William Klaer JrDear Dr Herzog, I am writing to you to tell that you have changed our lives forever. Without you, I would not have been able to walk down the aisle on my wedding day in October. I realize that I could have been paralyzed.

After experiencing many changes with body including the inability to walk, numbness, tingling, and pain. I went to see several doctors, went to emergency departments and had multiple “adjustments” at the chiropractor. During my MRI and thanks to the knowledge and quick thinking of the technician the problem was clearly defined. I was told that I had a cervical spine injury with herniation to the spinal cord that needed immediate attention. Within minutes I was advised that Dr. Herzog’s office staff would be waiting for me in the office.

We arrived to the office greeted by your most friendly, caring and compassionate staff. Shortly thereafter you arrived and greeted us with a concerned smile. You looked at the MRI pictures and confidently knew exactly what the diagnoses was. You gave us a thorough explanation and made an immediate decision that I needed surgery. You made me feel very comfortable despite the fast moving moments. You were also very attentive to all my wife’s questions. You were confident, knowledgeable and reassuring that my surgery would be a successful one. We tell everyone how YOU wheeled me in a wheelchair across the street to the surgical suite. That just does not happen : ) It certainly showed you truly love what you do. My wife was very happy hearing the outcome of the procedure from you after it was over along with the good prognosis.

The day after my surgery, the PA came to see me for discharge and told me everything looked good and turned out great. The follow-up care went smoothly from the multiple physical therapy visits, the follow-up appointments with you, and again the ease of dealing with such pleasant people in your office.

So on that note, I just want to say a huge Thank You for your amazing care, expertise, and your devotion to my personal situation. You saved my life.

˜William K. Jr


 

Patricia SheehanI had neck surgery about a year and a half ago. I cannot say enough good things about my experience with Dr. Herzog and his wonderful staff. After going through 4 years of physical therapy, pain injections and visits to my primary Doctor for relief, I finally got up the courage to have surgery.

Everyone at Saratoga Spine treated me so well and put all my fears to rest. My outcome was wonderful and I recommend them highly!

˜ Patricia S.


 

At 60, I experienced an accident that caused excruciating lower back, calf and foot pain. I went to Saratoga Spine seeking relief. After an extensive examination and consultation, I was given several options on how best to proceed. Spinal fusion was chosen. Today, at 70, with a few flexible restrictions and precautions, I experience an improved quality of life. This is a direct result of the relief found at Saratoga Spine. The folks at Saratoga Spine, Dr. Herzog and his dedicated staff, have had, and continue to have, a long lasting and positive influence in my life. To be continued.

˜ Ron A.


 

I  was referred to Dr. John Herzog for a September appointment, and I  have nothing but positive things to say about him.  I  met Dr. Herzog after having a painful bulge protruding from the side of my neck.  I  had it x-rayed due to heightened pain.

He was very knowledgeable and direct.  He explained that if I  were to fall, I was a prime candidate for paralysis.  I then had the surgery in January of 2006. It was a very immediate pain that lasted for an intense two weeks, but then it slowly subsided.

For years my husband had complained of my lack of tears when I was emotional.  It even became a bone of contention when I should have had tears.  I explained I did not now why–I felt the tears, but I couldn’t produce any, due to dry eyes.  Well a nice bonus of this operation for me was that I did have tears for the first time in at least 10 years, and I  still do.  No one can claim I do not have feelings anymore, for lack of tears.  And I am not paralyzed and have fallen since.  Thank you Dr. Herzog!!!!!!!!!!

~Ann C,


 

Ron HenricksonUpon meeting with Dr. John Herzog for the first time, I was in a wheelchair and in immense pain. I had seven previous back operations with numerous problems—spinal stenosis, curvature of the spine, arthritis, etc, etc.

My first meeting with Dr. Herzog lasted over an hour. He said he has seen worse but mine was “do able.” He explained everything in detail that he was going to do. The surgery he did on me was like a miracle. He gave me back the gift of living. I am now pain-free only because of Dr. Herzog.

He is a very gifted surgeon and has a bed-side manor all his own. I am very fortunate to not only meet him, but I got to know him as a true caring human being. I would recommend him with my highest respect. There is only one Dr. John Herzog and God bless him for what he did for me. He is the best of the best.

∼Ron H.


 

Jennifer BadaszewskiMy name is Jenn Badaszewski and I’m a 41-year-old active, mother of two, young professional who is writing this letter as testimonial to Dr. John Herzog and his wonderful staff. My journey with back pain existed intermittently throughout my teen years.  I sought relief through chiropractic care, and for a while, that sufficed.

Once in my young 30s, the pain in my lower back and right hip got progressively worse.  MRI’s revealed disc protrusion, but it was considered mild.  Dr. Herzog and I decided a trial of pain management would be a logical next step.  In my mind, back surgery had to be a last option, and Dr. Herzog agreed.  Pain management worked pretty well for a few years but was always short-term and  I accepted the fact that I was relegated to live a life in pain, as many other people do.

In 2010, while caring for a dying dog and carrying her up and down stairs, I felt the final injury.  After that day, things were significantly different.  I was past conservative modalities and it was time to see Dr. Herzog again.  A new MRI revealed that my back injury had progressed to the point of surgical intervention.

In July of 2011, I had a 2-disc spinal fusion.  I’ll admit that the recovery was tough but within a few weeks, I felt significantly better.  By 8 weeks I was back to work full time and having little to no discomfort at all. Since then, I have re-found the athlete in me.  As of 2014, I’m in the best shape of my life, living day to day PAIN FREE.  I am off, and have been for quite some time, all Nsaids, pain medications, physical therapists, or any other medical interventions.  I live an active, full and extremely happy life.

I am so grateful to Dr. John Herzog and his staff for helping me regain my life.

˜ Jennifer B.

 

Blue Distinction Center for Spine Surgery