Spine Care for Cape Coral Patients With Dr. Nicholas J. Clark
Life in Cape Coral tends to happen outdoors: on the boat, along the canals, on the golf course, or out walking in the evening. When back pain, sciatica, or neck problems start getting in the way of those routines, it may be time to see a spine specialist.
Dr. Nicholas J. Clark is a fellowship-trained orthopedic spine surgeon who completed his spine fellowship at Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) in New York. He treats adults with neck and back conditions at HSS at NCH, 11190 Health Park Blvd, Building 2-2102, Naples, FL 34110. Dr. Clark does not have an office in Cape Coral. All visits take place in Naples, and surgery, when it is needed, is performed at NCH, where he holds hospital privileges.
Call our team at (239) 624-0306 to request a visit.
Why Cape Coral Residents Come to Naples for Spine Care
At HSS at NCH, Cape Coral patients have access to a surgeon trained at HSS, a practice built around nonoperative care first, and minimally invasive and robotic options when surgery makes sense.
When an operation is recommended, Dr. Clark's goal is the least invasive approach that accomplishes the goals of surgery safely. For many lower back fusions, that means small incisions and muscle-sparing techniques. For posterior screw placement, he uses the Globus ExcelsiusGPS robotic system to help guide posterior percutaneous screws along a plan built from imaging, which helps reduce X-ray exposure during surgery. For many neck problems, he favors approaches from the front of the neck, such as ACDF or cervical disc replacement, when they fit the diagnosis.
Crossing the River: Getting From Cape Coral to the Office
Most Cape Coral patients cross the Caloosahatchee River into Fort Myers and then head south on I-75.
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From central and north Cape Coral: Veterans Memorial Parkway leads to the Midpoint Memorial Bridge and Colonial Boulevard, which connects to I-75.
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From south Cape Coral: the Cape Coral Bridge leads into south Fort Myers, with connections east toward I-75.
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On I-75 South: take Exit 111, Immokalee Road, head west, and turn onto Health Park Blvd. Follow campus signs to Building 2, Suite 2102.
Bridge fees may apply. Plan on about 45 minutes to an hour each way via I-75 South, depending on your neighborhood and traffic. Full directions are on the office information page.
Common Reasons Cape Coral Patients Seek a Spine Evaluation
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Leg pain or heaviness with walking or standing, often from lumbar spinal stenosis. Many people notice they need to sit down or lean on a shopping cart for relief.
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Pain shooting down one leg after lifting a cooler, hauling a kayak, or a jarring boat ride, which can point to a herniated disc and sciatica.
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Arm pain, tingling, or weakness from a pinched nerve in the neck, also called cervical radiculopathy.
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Clumsy hands, trouble with fishing line or buttons, or a change in balance, which can be signs of spinal cord compression in the neck. Learn more about cervical myelopathy, and do not wait to have these symptoms checked.
Minimally Invasive and Robotic Options
Many spine conditions improve with time, medication, and therapy. When they do not, options may include:
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MIS TLIF: a minimally invasive lower back fusion that relieves pressure on the nerves and stabilizes a level with posterior screws and rods
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Robotic spine surgery: robotic guidance for planned, accurate screw placement
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ACDF and cervical disc replacement: front-of-the-neck procedures for pinched nerves or spinal cord compression
Read more about minimally invasive spine surgery.
Before Your First Visit: MRI and Therapy Close to Home
Most new patients are seen within about a week to 10 days. Dr. Clark prefers that patients have a recent MRI and have tried physical therapy before the first visit, so the appointment can focus on a clear plan. Therapy does not have to be in Naples; a clinic in Cape Coral close to your home works well. If you have hand clumsiness, balance changes, or new weakness, call right away rather than waiting to finish therapy.
Bring your MRI images and report, a list of medications, and notes on any injections or therapy you have had. Coverage questions? See insurance information.
Referring offices can find referral details on our Referring Physicians page.
Planning Ahead if Surgery Is Recommended
Surgery takes place at NCH in Naples. Plan for a driver for the trip home and for early follow-up visits, since you will not be driving at first. When therapy is part of recovery, it can usually be arranged in Cape Coral. Postoperative guidelines are on the rehab and postoperative protocols page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there an office in Cape Coral?
No. Dr. Clark sees patients only at HSS at NCH, 11190 Health Park Blvd, Building 2-2102, Naples, FL 34110.
Which bridge should I take?
Either works. The Midpoint Memorial Bridge is often convenient from central Cape Coral, and the Cape Coral Bridge from the south end of the city. Both connect to routes leading to I-75 South.
How soon can I get an appointment?
Most new patients are seen within about a week to 10 days.
Do I have to do physical therapy in Naples?
No. Physical therapy can be done close to your home in Cape Coral.
Can my Cape Coral doctor stay involved?
Yes. Dr. Clark's consult note is sent back to your referring doctor after your visit.
Request a Visit
To schedule an evaluation with Dr. Clark at HSS at NCH, call our team at (239) 624-0306.