Denver-based spine surgeon Dr. Jacob Rumley’s goal is to get patients back to enjoying their lives. His first line of treatment is to address a patient’s back pain with non-surgical treatment, such as physical therapy, at-home exercises or injections. He performs surgery only if necessary.

Dr. Rumley was inspired to become an orthopedic surgeon when he broke his hand while playing football in seventh grade. He thought he would become a hand surgeon. However, during his later years, his father broke his back and became a paraplegic. After that, he decided to become a spine surgeon.

Having grown up in humble circumstances, he and his family greatly appreciated physicians who treated them like VIPs. As a physician, he strives to treat his patients the same way. Dr. Rumley’s grandmother used to say, “To get to the high road, you have to get off the dirt road.” Her wisdom has inspired him to become better every day without forgetting his roots.

Originally from northern Colorado, Dr. Rumley graduated from Colorado State University. He then completed medical school at Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences followed by an orthopedic residency at Madigan Army Medical Center in Fort Lewis, WA. As an U.S. Army orthopedic surgeon, he treated soldiers domestically and overseas during deployment. Later, he completed an AO Spine Fellowship at Augusta University. Through his military service, he developed a deep sense of loyalty, honor and duty, which has carried over to his service to patients at the Center for Spine and Orthopedics.

Watch Dr. Rumley’s video to learn more about his philosophy of patient care, the importance of trust, and his interests.