In this video, Brian Graham, a surfer and multisport athlete, describes how his life was transformed by spinal fusion, a minimally invasive, robotic-assisted spine surgery at UC San Diego Health. "Before the surgery, it was difficult for me to dress myself, to pick up a book off the floor. The fact that I can throw the first pitch is unbelievable,” he says.
For Brian Graham, a surfer and multisport athlete, chronic back pain started disrupting his life at an early age. Diagnosed with bulging discs in his spine as a teenager, Graham endured years of debilitating pain that radiated from his lower back down his legs. Although he played football and wrestled at Rancho Bernardo High School in San Diego, the pain often sidelined him from activities.
Graham spent years trying nonsurgical treatment options, including injections, acupuncture, physical therapy and mild medications, for pain management. Despite those efforts, the back pain persisted as he attended college at UC San Diego and into his 20s.
"I couldn't stand for more than 20 minutes," Graham said. At times, the intensity of the pain would even cause him to vomit.
Graham's search for relief eventually led him to the neurological spine care program at UC San Diego Health, where he was referred to Martin Pham, MD, a neurosurgeon specializing in spine care and minimally invasive procedures. From the first appointment, Graham felt a shift not just in his treatment plan, but in how he was treated as a young adult with back pain.
"Dr. Pham took the time to go over my MRI results and explained everything in a way that made sense. He respected me and truly listened," Graham said.
Martin H. Pham, MD
- Neurosurgeon
- Director of Medical Education
- Associate Professor of Neurological Surgery
Finding the Right Care
Pham recommended spinal fusion, a minimally invasive, robotic-assisted spine surgery designed to preserve mobility and reduce recovery time. Graham decided to have the surgery, followed by physical therapy. His pain went away, and within six months, he was back to surfing and lifting weights.
"I can sit for long hours now and be physically active again. It restored my quality of life," Graham said.
Today, Graham is channeling his experience into a career in medicine. He recently graduated from medical school and is now completing his residency in internal medicine at a hospital near Bakersfield, Calif.
"I hope to bring the same compassionate care Dr. Pham gave me to my own patients," Graham said.
Honored at Padres Game
Graham was selected to throw out the honorary first pitch during a San Diego Padres pregame ceremony at Petco Park. The moment was part of UC San Diego Health's Health Care Home Runs series, which celebrates patients who have overcome serious medical challenges with courage and determination.
Graham was joined on the field by his family and girlfriend — all devoted Padres fans — for a behind-the-scenes experience that included meeting players.
"I grew up with a huge family of Padres fans. To get to throw out the first pitch in front of my friends and family, it's something I'll always remember," Graham said. "Before the surgery, it was difficult for me to dress myself, to pick up a book off the floor. The fact that I can throw the first pitch is unbelievable. You can see Dr. Pham's work on full display."
For Graham, who once feared his chronic back pain would keep him from doing the things he loved, the day was a powerful reminder of how far he'd come.
Recognized for High-Quality Spine Surgery
UC San Diego Health earned The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval for Advanced Certification in Spine Surgery, recognizing the health system’s leadership in delivering safe and high-quality spine and neurological care. This achievement reflects our dedication to patient safety, surgical innovation and continuous advancements in spine treatment.
