Edward J. Dohring, MD

Founder & Medical Director, Spine Institute of Arizona
Past President, North American Spine Society (NASS)

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The Summit of Spine Care: Meet Dr. Edward Dohring

For some, scaling the world’s tallest peak once is a lifetime achievement. For Dr. Edward Dohring, two Mount Everest expeditions is simply a testament to what the human body can achieve when fueled by determination, endurance, and a healthy body.

As an elite mountaineer, Dr. Dohring doesn't just treat spinal conditions from a textbook; he understands firsthand the importance of physical capability, resilience, and the freedom to push one's body to accomplish meaningful goals. Whether your personal "Everest" is conquering a rugged mountain trail, returning to professional sports, or simply being able to lift your grandchildren without pain, Dr. Dohring’s ultimate mission is to restore the lifestyle and freedom you deserve.

A Global Leader Shaping the Future of Medicine

Dr. Dohring is not just a leading surgeon in Arizona; he is a globally recognized authority in orthopaedic spine surgery.  Combining decades of clinical experience with a compassionate, patient centered approach, Dr. Dohring has earned a reputation for delivering exceptional outcomes while helping patients navigate even the most complex spinal conditions.  His commitment to education, research, and excellence led to his peers electing him to serve as the President of the North American Spine Society (NASS), the world’s largest and most prestigious organization dedicated to spine care. In this role, he spearheaded both national and international advancements in patient care, ethical research, and surgical education. 

His commitment to excellence and compassionate patient care recently earned him the highly coveted 2026 HonorHealth President Lifetime Achievement Award. 

“If you have a passion for pushing your physical boundaries, you need a surgeon who understands that drive. I don't just want to get my patients back to walking; I want to get them back to conquering their own summits.”

  • EDWARD J. DOHRING

Pioneering Care Through FDA Trials and Innovation

If you are looking for the absolute cutting edge of spinal medicine, you are in the right hands. Dr. Dohring has spent decades leading the charge in medical innovation: 

  • FDA Clinical Trials: As a principal investigator in numerous prestigious FDA trials, Dr. Dohring has been instrumental in testing and vetting the next generation of spinal technologies before they ever hit the mainstream market; helping to shape the future of spine care for patients across the country

  • Arizona Firsts: He pioneered the southwest's very first artificial disc replacements and advanced minimally invasive cervical and lumbar procedures, drastically reducing recovery times for his patients. 

  • A Legacy of Education: As a Clinical Associate Professor and Fellowship Director, he has personally trained and mentored over 30 of the nation's leading spine surgeons. In recognition of his national contributions to educating surgeons, he was elected a fellow of the American Orthopedic Association, a society consisting primarily of medical school faculty which caps membership to no more than 8% of all Orthopedic surgeons nationwide.

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A man in hiking gear standing on a rocky hillside overlooking a desert cityscape with mountains in the distance.

Bridging Elite Expertise with Compassionate Care

When he isn’t evaluating emerging spinal technologies and treatment approaches or serving as the Team Spine Consultant for the San Francisco Giants, Dr. Dohring travels the world donating his surgical skills to underserved communities in Nepal, Kenya, Haiti, and Ghana. 

At the Spine Institute of Arizona, Dr. Dohring combines Ivy League training (Dartmouth College and Yale Medical School) with the grit of a world-class explorer. He listens deeply, understands your goals, and utilizes the most conservative, advanced methods available to get you moving again. Dr. Dohring remains committed to delivering state-of-the-art, evidence based spine care utilizing the latest techniques and technology. Whether treating a simple disc herniation or a complex spinal disorder, his goal remains the same: helping patients move better, feel better, and get back to living life without limitations.

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Team Spine Surgeon & Consultant for the San Francisco Giants

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Recognized as a Phoenix Magazine ‘TOP DOC’ for seven years

North American Spine Society Logo

Served as President of the North American Spine Society (NASS)

Dr. Dohring receiving Honor Health Lifetime Impact Award

Received Honor Health’s Lifetime Achievement Award 2026

What Patients are Saying

“As a surgeon practicing in Phoenix for 35 years, I had plenty of time to do my homework and speak to other patients and physicians who have had experience; both good and bad with Spine Surgeon’s. Choosing Dr Dohring was the obvious choice. His staff is very supportive and he’s a meticulous surgeon. I had an excellent result which allowed me to return to sports and live live without pain. Cannot recommend highly highly enough.”

  • Jeffrey T.

“I had spine surgery performed by Dr Dohring in May. Since then I have had no pain. I highly recommend Dr Dohring if you’re having issues with your back. I couldn’t be more pleased with the results. Everything was clearly explained to me and all the questions I had answered. He’s wonderful.”

  • Judith S.

“Dr. Dohring his staff, along with all the other Dr's in his office are incredible. I have been seeing Dr Dohring for 20 years. I recommend the Spine Institute of Arizona to everyone. Thank you for all you do for myself and the community.”

  • Shannon D.

Committed to Our Patients

At Spine Institute of Arizona, we offer a large variety of treatments to help people overcome spine and nerve pain. We do this by using our expert knowledge and experience utilizing the most cutting-edge technology available today. Our commitment is to get to know our patients individually and understand their needs so that we can help them recover and achieve their goals by getting them back on the healing track.

Please call or text us at 602-953-9500 to schedule your consult

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