Celebrating 20 Years of The National Spine Health Foundation
2022 marks 20 years of the National Spine Health Foundation. Over the last two decades we’ve championed those with neck and back pain, completed industry-changing research, and advocated for broader awareness of spinal conditions that impact millions of Americans each year.
In February, NSHF’s co-founder Dr. Thomas Schuler and CEO Dr. Rita Roy talked to Orthopedics This Week about what the 20th anniversary means to them:
“I helped found the National Spine Health Foundation with the intention of transforming the lives of patients across the country,” said Dr. Schuler. “Twenty years later, I’m proud to say that the Foundation has, and will continue to, achieve this goal.”
“We could not be more excited to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Foundation and renew our commitment to supporting the millions of Americans who struggle with back or neck pain each year,” said our CEO, Dr. Rita Roy.
In April, Becker’s Spine Review and Spinal News International recognized our 50-member medical and scientific board, led by Dr. Schuler and Dr. Christopher Good. The Board provides unparalleled access to world-class experts for patients and the public at large, and promotes the Foundation’s mission to improve spinal health care through patient education, advocacy, and research.
We also launched the “Who’s Got Your Back?” campaign this Spring, highlighting stories of inspiring Spinal Champions who have achieved better qualities of life through spinal health care. You can read our “Who’s Got Your Back?’ stories here:
October is Spine Health Awareness month and there are many ways for you to get involved. We have compiled a resource page with tips on easy ways to share and learn more about spine health. In addition, World Spine Day is on October 16th and we will celebrate by hosting the 14th Annual We’ve Got Your Back 5K & Wellness Fair at our headquarters in Reston, Virginia. This race will raise awareness for spinal conditions, celebrate positive outcomes with our Spinal Champions, and generate the necessary funds needed to support those on the journey to spinal health. You can get involved in the race virtually all month long and create a team to raise support for our mission.
We are also excited to share that Governor Glenn Youngkin from Virginia has issued a proclamation declaring October Spine Health Month! Our advocacy work made this achievement happen! We are working tirelessly to bring awareness of spine health to the attention to the state of Virginia and to the nation.
As we celebrate the history of the Foundation – and look to the next 20+ years of NSHF – we are grateful for the support of our generous donors who have helped make our goals a reality. With nearly 100 million Americans suffering from neck and back pain every year, there still is much work to be done. You can learn more about how to support our mission here.
