The story behind the books
Nearly 25 years in spine surgery, a Yale education, and a lasting commitment to helping people understand their spines.
Her story
Michelle M. Wright, MMSc, PA-C, is a Yale-trained physician associate who has spent nearly 25 years at the side of spine surgery patients. Over those years she has seen how much calmer and more confident people become once they truly understand their spine.
That experience is why she writes. Her books explain spine conditions, nonsurgical treatments, why surgery is sometimes recommended, how to prepare, what the hospital stay is like, and what to expect during recovery, all in plain language.
Her approach is patient-centered and education-first: informed patients ask better questions, make steadier decisions and heal with less worry. The books support, and never replace, the advice of your own surgeon and care team.
Training and credentials
Yale PA Program
Trained as a physician associate at Yale, earning her MMSc.
NCCPA certification
Board certified as a Physician Assistant, Certified (PA-C).
Professional memberships
Member of the American Academy of Physician Associates (AAPA), the Texas Academy of Physician Associates (TAPA) and the North American Spine Society (NASS).
Volunteer work: Medical Reserve Corps
Michelle serves as a volunteer with the Medical Reserve Corps, a national network of health professionals who give their time and skills to support their communities in public health needs and emergencies.
It is the same spirit that drives her books and talks: using what she knows to help the people around her.
Placeholder: Michelle, add the years you have served and any deployments or community events you would like to share here.
Teaching
Teaching has always been part of Michelle's work. She leads workshops and speaks to a wide range of audiences, including:
- Workshops for adolescents and adults on posture, safe movement and spine health.
- Training for middle schools, including middle school students on maintaining spine health and backpack use, and for school nurses who perform scoliosis screening.
- Sessions for new mothers on lifting and carrying safely.
- Talks for community groups and support groups.
- Spine care training for the staff of medical organizations.
Placeholder: Michelle, add the schools, programs and courses where you have taught, with years, to complete your teaching history.
