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Orthopaedic Spine Surgery with Mr John Cunningham
Established by Mr John Cunningham OAM, our practice specialises in orthopaedic spine surgery, offering comprehensive care for spinal disorders. With over two decades of clinical experience and 2,000+ successful surgeries, we combine evidence-based treatments with patient-centred approaches to address cervical, lumbar, and age-related spinal conditions. Our services span preventative care, minimally invasive techniques, and traditional open surgery, supported by a commitment to clinical research and education. Located in Richmond and Wangaratta, we provide tailored consultations, diagnostic evaluations, and multidisciplinary referrals to optimise patient outcomes.Our team maintains affiliations with leading institutions, including Royal Melbourne Hospital and Epworth Medical Centre, ensuring access to advanced care. John Cunninghams expertise, recognised through awards like the Medal of the Order of Australia, underpins our dedication to excellence in spinal health. We prioritise clear communication, ethical practice, and collaboration with referring physicians to deliver holistic, transparent care.
Services
Spinal consultations
Cervical spine treatment
Lumbar spine surgery
Minimally invasive techniques
Traditional open surgery
Highlights and features
- We have over 10 years of experience in orthopaedic spine surgery.
- Our team has performed 2,000+ successful spinal surgeries.
- We offer evidence-based, patient-focused treatment plans.
- Our surgeon holds advanced qualifications from the University of Calgary and RACS.
- We provide consultations at multiple locations across Victoria.
Services
Spinal consultations
Comprehensive assessments for spinal conditions, including medical history review, physical examinations, and diagnostic imaging analysis. Patients receive personalised treatment plans tailored to their specific needs, whether through non-surgical, minimally invasive, or surgical interventions. The process ensures clear communication with referring doctors and coordinated care pathways.
Cervical spine treatment
Specialised care for cervical spine disorders, including degenerative conditions, trauma, and nerve compression. Treatment options range from conservative management to advanced surgical techniques. The focus is on restoring function and alleviating pain while minimising recovery time through evidence-based approaches.
Lumbar spine surgery
Targeted interventions for lumbar spinal issues such as disc herniation, stenosis, and instability. Both minimally invasive and traditional open surgeries are offered, prioritising long-term outcomes and patient education. Post-operative rehabilitation support is integrated into care plans to enhance recovery.
Minimally invasive techniques
Advanced procedures using small incisions and specialised instruments to treat spinal conditions with reduced tissue damage. These techniques offer faster recovery, less post-operative pain, and shorter hospital stays while maintaining surgical precision and effectiveness for appropriate cases.
Traditional open surgery
Open surgical approaches for complex spinal disorders requiring direct visualisation and extensive correction. This method is employed when minimally invasive techniques are unsuitable, ensuring optimal structural realignment and long-term stability through proven methodologies.
People
John Cunningham
Orthopaedic Spine Surgeon
Mr John Cunningham OAM is an Australian-trained orthopaedic surgeon with over 20 years of experience in spinal disorders. He has performed 2,000+ surgeries and published 52 research papers. His expertise includes spondylolisthesis, spinal trauma, and age-related conditions.
Questions
How do I book a consultation with Mr Cunningham?
A referral is required to book a consultation. Referrals can be sent electronically, via email, or faxed to our rooms.
What spinal conditions do you treat?
We treat cervical (neck), lumbar (lower back), and age-related spinal disorders, including trauma and imbalance.
Where are your practice locations?
John sees patients in Richmond (Epworth Centre), Wangaratta (Wangaratta Private Hospital), and Parkville (Royal Melbourne Hospital).
What should I bring to my first appointment?
Bring your referral, relevant imaging (CD-ROM preferred), Medicare card, private health details, and any necessary insurance information.
Do you offer telehealth consultations?
Yes, telehealth consultations are available. Complete the online registration form prior to your scheduled appointment.
Reviews (4)
Teena Twaddle
Jun 11, 2021
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Professional, kind and understanding health practitioner who listens to his clients. Something sadly not often experienced in todays hurried times. A special shout it the Vicki and Emily who are his assistants and make every interaction pleasant and welcoming.
Lisa Fogarty
Apr 06, 2021
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Review for Dr John Cunningham
I have been a patient of Johns since 2013. After 20 years of back pain, I decided to go down the path of a L5S1 fusion. This was truly the best decision I have ever made. John is the most delightful man and even has a great sense of humour and for a specialist, this is not that common as most of us know! As a patient, I have been so blessed to be in his hands and as we all know, our backs are a very important part of our anatomy and have always felt safe in Johns hands. Please ignore any negative reviews on John as this truly is not reflective of who he is and
I have been a patient of Johns since 2013. After 20 years of back pain, I decided to go down the path of a L5S1 fusion. This was truly the best decision I have ever made. John is the most delightful man and even has a great sense of humour and for a specialist, this is not that common as most of us know! As a patient, I have been so blessed to be in his hands and as we all know, our backs are a very important part of our anatomy and have always felt safe in Johns hands. Please ignore any negative reviews on John as this truly is not reflective of who he is and
Chi Dinh
Sep 11, 2020
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Dr John Cunningham OAM is a very professional, talented, precise and friendly spine surgeon. My cervical spine problem was complex.The operation (C3-T2 decompression and fusion) in June 2020 at Epworth Hospital was very challenging but was a full success. I am very happy with the outcome. I would highly recommend him to all who are suffering from spinal disorders, injuries or diseases. Thank you for your care, I'm very grateful for your kindness. Also thanks to Vicki who helped to arrange the admission as requested smoothly. With my regards.
Marie Stav
Jun 16, 2020
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Dear Dr Cunningham,
I'd like to take this opportunity to thank you wholeheartedly for your care, support, inspiration and professionalism associated with my recent back surgery. My surgery proved to be a difficult time for me both physically and emotionally but your ongoing positive reassurance and allowing me to be involved with decision making made the world of difference. I'm forever grateful for your kindness, lovely sense of humor and compassion. May God bless you and all of your endeavors. I would highly recommend you to my family and friends. With sincere gratitude and respect
Fr Michael
I'd like to take this opportunity to thank you wholeheartedly for your care, support, inspiration and professionalism associated with my recent back surgery. My surgery proved to be a difficult time for me both physically and emotionally but your ongoing positive reassurance and allowing me to be involved with decision making made the world of difference. I'm forever grateful for your kindness, lovely sense of humor and compassion. May God bless you and all of your endeavors. I would highly recommend you to my family and friends. With sincere gratitude and respect
Fr Michael
