Since the beginning of 2024, 57-year-old Mr. Bhimappa found himself grappling with pain and weakness in his back, upper, and lower limbs. The minor discomfort soon escalated into severe symptoms including numbness and tingling sensations that affected his entire body. Once an active and independent man working as a supervisor at HESCOM, he could no longer walk, sit, stand, or even sleep comfortably.

Since 2017, Mr. Bhimappa has managed his symptoms with physical therapy, but by August 2023, his condition took a turn for the worse, reaching an unbearable peak by early 2024. Despite his increasing dependence on family and the fear of being bedridden, he never suspected that his symptoms were indicative of a chronic spinal condition.

Hailing from Belagavi, Karnataka, Mr. Bhimappa was determined to regain control of his and began his search for a solution. He came across a YouTube video of Dr. S. Vidyadhara, Chairman, HOD – Spine Surgery & Consultant – Robotic Spine Surgeon, Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bengaluru, whose expertise in robotic spine surgery he discovered through Manipal Hospitals’ YouTube Channel. Mr. Bhimappa consulted Dr. Vidyadhara, who, after a thorough investigation, diagnosed him with severe spinal cord compression from C4 to T1 and recommended immediate surgery.

With the hope of walking independently again, Mr. Bhimappa consented to undergo decompression by laminectomy and robotic arm-assisted C3-T1 fusion surgery the very same day. Post-surgery, he noticed a significant improvement in his symptoms, and with consistent physiotherapy, he began to regain motor function and mobility.

Today, Mr. Bhimappa is gradually easing back into his routine and work life, walking independently—a goal that once seemed distant. His journey from a stretcher-bound patient to regaining his mobility is a testament to his resilience and the skilled care he received from Dr. Vidyadhara and his team.