Dr. David M. Prior, M.D., FAAOS, is a highly respected and board-certified orthopedic spine surgeon serving patients across the Phoenix metropolitan area. Known for his advanced surgical skill, compassionate care, and dedication to long-term patient outcomes, Dr. Prior has built a reputation as one of Arizona’s most trusted names in spine health.
With years of experience treating a wide range of spinal conditions, Dr. Prior specializes in both conservative management and surgical intervention for neck, back, and nerve-related problems. He understands that no two patients are alike, and he takes a personalized approach to diagnosis and treatment, guiding each patient with clarity and empathy from their first consultation through full recovery.
Dr. Prior treats a wide array of spinal conditions, including both degenerative and traumatic issues. His expertise includes:
- Chronic neck and back pain
- Herniated or bulging discs
- Degenerative disc disease
- Spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal)
- Spondylolisthesis (vertebral slippage)
- Spinal fractures and trauma
- Scoliosis and adult spinal deformity
- Nerve compression and sciatica
- Myelopathy (spinal cord dysfunction)
- Spinal tumors and infections
- Failed back surgery and revision procedures
In many cases, Dr. Prior offers non-surgical solutions such as physical therapy, injections, and medication management. However, when surgery is necessary, he emphasizes minimally invasive techniques designed to minimize tissue disruption and accelerate recovery. Some of the advanced surgical procedures he performs include:
- Microdiscectomy – removal of disc material to relieve pressure on spinal nerves
- Laminectomy and decompression surgery – creating space in the spinal canal to relieve nerve compression
- Spinal fusion (cervical and lumbar) – stabilizing the spine using bone grafts and instrumentation
- Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion (ACDF)
- Minimally invasive lumbar interbody fusion (LIF, TLIF, or XLIF)
- Spinal cord stimulator implantation – for patients with chronic back and leg pain
- Revision spine surgery – correcting or improving previous spine procedures
Dr. Prior’s path to becoming a leading spine surgeon began with his undergraduate studies at Michigan State University, where he graduated summa cum laude. He earned his medical degree from Wayne State University School of Medicine and completed a rigorous residency in orthopedic surgery at Western Michigan University. He then advanced his training through a highly competitive spine fellowship at UC Davis Medical Center in California, where he gained extensive experience with complex and minimally invasive spine procedures.
What truly sets Dr. Prior apart is his patient-first philosophy. He believes that effective treatment begins with listening. He takes the time to fully explain conditions, imaging results, and treatment options in plain language, empowering patients to make informed decisions. His approachable manner, clinical confidence, and dedication to care have earned him the trust of countless individuals throughout Arizona.
Dr. Prior currently sees patients at multiple convenient locations in the Valley:
Central Phoenix Office
1331 North 7th Street, Suite 200
Phoenix, AZ 85006
Scottsdale Office
7649 E Pinnacle Peak Road, Suite 100
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
Chandler Office
725 South Dobson Road, Suite 200
Chandler, AZ 85224
Whether you’re struggling with persistent back pain, facing a serious spinal diagnosis, or seeking a second opinion, Dr. David Prior offers advanced orthopedic spine care in a setting built on trust, experience, and compassion. His mission is to restore mobility, reduce pain, and help every patient return to a more active, confident life.
To schedule an appointment or learn more, contact one of his clinic locations today and take the first step toward lasting spine health.
Check out more information about Spinal Cord Surgeons in Phoenix, Spinal Fusion, Phoenix Spine Surgeons, and Top Back Surgeons in Scottsdale.
The text above is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be considered medical or legal advice. If you have any physical or emotional concerns, contact your doctor for proper consultation.