David K. Ebelke, M.D.

Biography

I am an avid cyclist; regular swimmer and runner; former marathoner and triathlete (Ironman); and auto repair buff.

Care Philosophy

I believe strongly in educating patients about their conditions and their natural history. I show them the imaging and explain the pathology. I'm conservative with treatment and believe surgery is the best option for some problems and a last resort for some others, but it is not an option for many problems. I put myself in my patients' shoes and advise them on what I would have done if I were the patient. I'm not into fads, gimmicks or "new" treatments. I favor predictability and "tried-and-true" surgical treatment. I think spend more time with my patients than most surgeons, and I try to make sure there are no unrealistic expectations. I consider surgery a "big deal," and I know how much it affects patients' lives and livelihoods. Having been in this field for 33+ years and a low back pain patient myself, I have a good understanding of what works and what doesn't.

Area of Interest

• Lumbar and thoracic spine: Surgical and nonsurgical management of low- and mid-back pain, disc herniations and/or bulges, spinal stenosis, spondylolisthesis, spondylosis, spondylolysis, fractures, radiculopathy, facet arthritis, epidural steroid injections and neurogenic claudication.
• Cervical spine: Evaluation and nonsurgical management of cervical stenosis, neck pain, spondylosis, herniations, radiculopathy and facet arthritis
• Medico-legal: Worker's compensation injuries and personal injury cases
  

Teaching and Professional Positions

• 1990-Present: Spine Surgery Ltd., Spine Surgeon
• 1987-1989: Florida, Idaho, Texas and Wisconsin, Locum Tenens assignments
  
• 1986-1989: Louisiana State University Medical Center, Shreveport, Clinical Instructor
• 1986-1989: 2nd Strategic Hospital, Barksdale Air Force Base, Louisiana, Orthopedic Surgeon

Professional Memberships

• American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, Fellow
• American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery, Diplomate
  

Honors, Awards etc.

College: U.S. Air Force Academy

• Dean's List (seven semesters)
• Commandant's List (seven semesters)
• Superintendent's List (six semesters)
• Graduated cum laude (Order of Merit)