Physician Spotlight on Dr. Solomon Oloyede

What inspired you to pursue orthopedic spine surgery?

I was drawn to orthopedic surgery because it allows me to make a meaningful impact on a patient’s pain, mobility, and quality of life. In particular, spine surgery felt like the culmination of everything I enjoyed during my medical training. The field requires a deep understanding of multiple systems in the body, and I appreciate the combination of thoughtful problem solving with evolving technology to advance surgical techniques and improve patient outcomes.

What spine conditions do you most commonly treat?

I treat conditions affecting the cervical, thoracic, and lumbosacral spine, including degenerative disc disease, spinal stenosis, herniated discs, radiculopathy, spondylolisthesis, spinal deformity, fractures, and other spinal disorders.

What is your philosophy when it comes to treating patients with neck or back pain?

My approach is individualized and patient-centered. I take the time to understand each patient’s symptoms, lifestyle, and goals and then work with them to develop an evidence-based treatment plan that best fits their needs.

How do you determine when surgery is appropriate, and what non-surgical options do you consider first?

Surgery is not always the first or best option. When possible, I prioritize nonoperative management, as many patients achieve meaningful improvement without surgery. A range of conservative treatments can be utilized to address spinal dysfunction, including structured physical therapy, aquatic therapy, and targeted injections. If surgery becomes necessary, I discuss the available options with the patient so we can make an informed decision together. For surgical candidates, I place strong emphasis on preoperative rehabilitation (prehab) because optimizing physiologic fitness before surgery improves postoperative recovery and overall outcomes.

What role do minimally invasive techniques play in spine surgery, and how can they benefit patients?

My goal for every surgery is to employ the least invasive approach. Minimally invasive spine surgery (MISS) allows for smaller incisions and less tissue disruption, which improves postoperative pain, mobility, and overall function. These benefits extend beyond short-term recovery and are important for long-term functional outcomes.

MISS varies for each patient depending on the underlying pathology, which allows the approach to be tailored to individual needs. With the increasing availability of technological advances such as computer-based navigation, robotics, and endoscopy, the field continues to evolve toward more refined minimally invasive techniques. I remain committed to staying current with new approaches and technologies so I can achieve this goal.

What can a patient expect during their first appointment with you?

A patient can expect to be heard. The first visit is usually dedicated to understanding the patient’s symptoms, how they are affecting daily life, and what they hope to achieve from treatment. I review their condition, imaging, and available treatment options and make sure they have the information they need to feel comfortable with the next steps.

What do you find most rewarding about helping patients with spine conditions?

The most rewarding part of my work is helping patients relieve pain, regain function, and return to the activities that are important to them. Spine care often involves longitudinal relationships, and over time I am introduced to spouses, family members, pets, hobbies, and the daily routines that shape a patient’s life. Being part of that journey is incredibly meaningful.

What do you enjoy doing outside of work?

Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my wife, playing soccer, and weightlifting.