The Conversation Every Spine Patient Deserves

In this episode, Dr. David Hanscom continues his discussion with Dr. Scott Phillips, a neurosurgeon. Dr. Phillips explores common misconceptions patients hear from surgeons, including phrases like "you need surgery" and "it's not bad enough yet." He discusses how surgeons often fail to clearly explain why surgery is not recommended or offer alternative non-surgical options. He talks about problems with "upscaling" surgeries to include unnecessary levels or instrumentation, noting that patients often receive larger, riskier procedures than needed for their symptoms. He highlights the need for better communication with patients about both surgical and non-surgical treatment options, particularly given that chronic pain can be a complication of surgery even when structural problems are addressed. Download the transcript:https://backincontrol.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Transcript-Interview-2-w-Scott-Phillips.pdf Scott Phillips, M.D. received his Bachelor's degree at the University of Kentucky in his hometown of Lexington, KY., and went on to complete his Medical Degree at the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine. He completed a 7-year Neurological Surgery Residency at Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit, MI. As part of the Air Force Health Professions Scholarship Program, he then served 4 years on Active Duty as a Staff Neurosurgeon at San Antonio Military Medical Center. After Honorable Separation in 2017, he served the citizens of San Antonio Texas before relocating to practice in Wichita Falls and the greater North Texas area. For more information, visit: https://excelsis.life Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices