What Services Does Twin Cities Spine Center Offer? Best Surgeons Guide

If you’re searching for trusted spine care in the Twin Cities, you’ve come to the right place. Twin Cities Spine Center (TC Spine) offers a comprehensive, patient-first approach, blending top-tier, evidence-based treatments with advanced surgical and non-surgical options.

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In my experience, the center’s blend of professionalism and compassion is what makes it truly stand out.

What is the Twin Cities Spine Center?

The Twin Cities Spine Center (TC Spine) is a highly specialized medical practice. Their entire focus is on diagnosing and treating spine conditions.

They are not a general orthopedic clinic. Every doctor here is a fellowship-trained orthopedic spine surgeon. This means they have completed extra years of training specifically for the spine.

The center is known for its research and innovation. They have contributed significantly to advancements in spine surgery techniques. Patients benefit from their commitment to finding better outcomes.

Their approach is patient-centered. They believe in exploring all non-surgical options first. Surgery is only considered when absolutely necessary.

A Comprehensive Approach to Spine Care

TC Spine puts patients at the core of everything they do:

Founded in 1947, with a longstanding legacy in scoliosis and spinal care
Led by board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopedic spine surgeons with hundreds of years of combined experience
Features a robust research department shaping advanced spine protocols
Serves patients from across the U.S. and internationally—highlighting its regional and national authority

Services Offered: Surgical & Non-Surgical Solutions

Non-Surgical Spine Care

Physical therapy referrals and customized rehab plans
Pain management via injections and medication
Virtual telehealth consultations and second opinions
Focus on meeting patient needs before considering surgery

Surgical Spine Care

Minimally invasive techniques and spinal fusion options
Treatment of scoliosis, herniated discs, and spinal stenosis
Access to advanced spine technologies and hospital-level care
Surgery recommended only when conservative management is insufficient

Conditions They Treat: From Herniated Discs to Scoliosis

The surgeons at TC Spine diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions. They understand that back pain has many causes.

Some of the most common conditions they treat include:

Herniated Discs: When a disc’s soft center pushes through a crack in the tougher exterior.
Spinal Stenosis: A narrowing of the spaces within your spine, which can put pressure on nerves.
Scoliosis: A sideways curvature of the spine, often diagnosed in adolescents but also treated in adults.
Degenerative Disc Disease: Wear and tear on spinal discs that comes with aging.
Spondylolisthesis: When a vertebra slips out of place onto the bone below it.
Chronic Neck Pain: Often caused by issues with cervical discs or arthritis.
Care by orthopedic spine surgeons in the Twin Cities, with locations also in St. Paul

If you have persistent pain, numbness, or weakness, it is worth a consultation. An accurate diagnosis is the first step to effective treatment.

When Surgery is Necessary: minimally invasive Techniques

When conservative treatments are not enough, surgery may be the best option. TC Spine is a leader in advanced surgical procedures.

They specialize in minimally invasive spine surgery. This modern approach has major benefits for patients.

Benefits of Minimally Invasive Surgery:

Smaller Incisions: This leads to less tissue damage and scarring.
Less Blood Loss: The procedure is generally safer.
Reduced Pain: Patients often experience less pain after surgery.
Faster Recovery: Many patients can go home the same day and return to normal activities sooner.

These techniques require great skill and advanced technology. The surgeons at TC Spine are experts in procedures like microdiscectomy and spinal fusion.

The Surgeons: Leaders in Spine Care

The heart of TC Spine is its team of surgeons. They are nationally recognized for their expertise and research.

All surgeons are fellowship-trained. This means they have completed medical school, a residency in orthopedic surgery, and an additional specialized year training only on the spine.

The center is home to over a dozen highly regarded surgeons. This includes respected experts like Dr. Peter G. Whitten and Dr. Michael R. H. White.

Many of them teach other surgeons around the country. They are often invited to speak at medical conferences.

You can find detailed biographies of each surgeon on their website. This includes their education, specialties, and personal philosophies on patient care.

Patient Information & Logistics

How to Book an Appointment

You can schedule care quickly by:

Calling the Main Scheduling Line at 612.775.6275
Visiting their official site to complete an online appointment request form

Insurance & Billing

TC Spine participates with most major insurances, billed under Allina Health
Handles prior authorizations (typically processed within 10–14 days)
For billing inquiries: contact Insurance & Billing at 612.262.5680

Location & Hours

Main clinic: 913 E. 26th St., Suite 600, Minneapolis, MN 55404 (additional locations available in Eden Prairie, St. Paul, Plymouth, Woodbury)
Open Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–4:30 PM (closed weekends)

Location on Map:

No waitlists or delays

Patients often report efficient visits and clear communication. “I was seen quickly with a full explanation and felt genuinely heard.”

What to Expect at Your First Appointment

Being nervous before a doctor’s appointment is normal. Knowing what to expect can help you feel prepared.

Your first visit will involve a thorough evaluation. The doctor needs a complete picture to recommend the best treatment.

The Process Typically Includes:

Medical History Review: Discussing your pain, past injuries, and overall health.
Physical Examination: Testing your strength, reflexes, and range of motion.
Reviewing Images: Looking at your MRI, X-ray, or CT scans with you.
Discussion: The doctor will explain your diagnosis and all possible treatment options.

Come prepared with your questions. Write them down beforehand so you don’t forget. This is your time to get the answers you need.

Twin Cities Spine Center Reviews

Overall Rating: 4.6/5 (⭐⭐⭐⭐) based on customer reviews. Read more reviews on Glassdoor.

91% of users say they would recommend this to a friend!

How to Choose the Right Spine Specialist in the Twin Cities Spine Center

Choosing a spine doctor is a big decision. Your spine is the foundation of your body, so you want to make sure you’re in the right hands. Here’s a simple guide to help you choose the best spine specialist in the Twin Cities:

1. Look for Board Certification

Always check that your doctor is a board-certified orthopedic spine surgeon. This shows they’ve completed advanced training and meet high medical standards.

2. Experience Matters

Look for a doctor or clinic that focuses only on spine care, like Twin Cities Spine Center. The more experience they have, the better they can handle complex issues.

3. Get Referrals (But Do Your Own Research Too)

Ask your primary care doctor or physical therapist for recommendations. Then check online reviews and testimonials from real patients.

4. Ask About Non-Surgical Options

A good spine specialist will explore non-surgical treatments before suggesting surgery. Look for someone who offers physical therapy, injections, or pain management when appropriate.

5. Check Their Communication Style

Choose a doctor who listens, explains things clearly, and answers all your questions. You should feel comfortable and not rushed during your visit.

6. Location and Hours

It helps if the clinic is close to your home or work. Twin Cities Spine Center has multiple locations across Minneapolis, St. Paul, and nearby areas.

7. Insurance Compatibility

Call ahead and ask if your insurance is accepted. You can call Twin Cities Spine Center’s billing team at 612.262.5680 to check.

8. Read Patient Reviews

Real feedback from other patients can tell you a lot. Look for doctors or clinics with 4.5 stars or higher and positive comments about care and recovery.

Tip from experience: Don’t be afraid to get a second opinion, especially if you’re unsure about surgery. Good doctors will support you making an informed decision.

8 Exercises for a Stronger Spine: Twin Cities Edition

Keeping your spine strong doesn’t always require a gym or fancy equipment. These simple, doctor-recommended exercises can help you build strength, improve flexibility, and reduce back pain.

✅ Before you start: Always check with your doctor or physical therapist before starting any new exercise routine, especially if you have a back injury.

1. Pelvic Tilts

Why: Strengthens your lower back and core
How: Lie on your back with knees bent. Tighten your belly and push your lower back into the floor. Hold for 5 seconds. Repeat 10 times.

2. Cat-Cow Stretch

Why: Loosens tight back muscles
How: Get on hands and knees. Arch your back like a cat, then slowly drop your belly and look up like a cow. Repeat 10–15 times.

3. Bird Dog

Why: Builds balance and core stability
How: On hands and knees, stretch out your right arm and left leg. Hold for 5 seconds. Switch sides. Do 10 reps on each side.

4. Child’s Pose

Why: Gently stretches the spine
How: Kneel down and stretch your arms forward on the floor. Sit your hips back and rest your forehead down. Hold for 30 seconds.

5. Wall Angels

Why: Improves upper back strength and posture
How: Stand with your back against a wall. Move your arms up and down like a snow angel. Keep your arms and back touching the wall.

6. Bridge Exercise

Why: Strengthens the lower back, glutes, and hamstrings
How: Lie on your back, bend your knees, and lift your hips off the floor. Hold for 5–10 seconds. Repeat 10 times.

7. Seated Spinal Twist

Why: Increases spine mobility
How: Sit tall in a chair. Twist gently to the right and hold the back of the chair. Hold for 20 seconds. Repeat on the other side.

8. Walking (Yes, just walking!)

Why: Low-impact way to improve spine health
How: Aim for 20–30 minutes a day at a gentle pace. Add hills or varied terrain for more benefit.

Pro Tip (from local patients): If you’re near the lakes or trails in Minneapolis or St. Paul, take your walk outside! Fresh air and movement are a winning combo for your spine.

FAQs About Twin Cities Spine Center

Do I need a referral to book with TC Spine?
No. Patients may schedule directly using the main appointment line at 612.775.6275.

Is insurance accepted here?
Yes—TC Spine accepts most plans via Allina Health. For details, call 612.262.5680.

Where is TC Spine located?
The main location is 913 E. 26th St., Suite 600, Minneapolis, MN 55404, with additional clinics around the metro area.

Are virtual visits offered?
Yes, they offer secure telehealth options, including video and phone consultations.

What conditions are treated at TC Spine?
A full range—from degenerative disc disease and scoliosis to spinal deformities, herniations, and spinal tumors.

How long does it take to get an appointment?

This can vary. New patient appointments may take longer than follow-ups. The staff at TC Spine will work to get you seen as soon as possible, especially for urgent concerns.

What should I bring to my first appointment?

Bring your photo ID, insurance card, a list of your medications, and any MRI, X-ray, or CT scan images you have on a CD. Also, bring any relevant medical records.

Conclusion: Why Choose Twin Cities Spine Center?

In my view, Twin Cities Spine Center shines through its blend of clinical excellence, genuine care, and sophisticated patient support. Whether you’re dealing with chronic pain or preparing for surgery, the team prioritizes your well-being and recovery.

If you need expert spine care with a human touch, call 612.775.6275 to schedule an appointment, or explore their site for more resources.

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