For University of Rhode Island baseball player Nick, back pain was becoming more than just another injury. It was beginning to take away the game he loved—and the simple everyday moments most people take for granted.

What started as an injury during his sophomore year gradually became debilitating. The pain affected nearly every aspect of his life, making it difficult to walk, sit, sleep, and compete on the baseball field.

Throughout his journey, Nick was under the care of University Orthopedics spine surgeon Dr. Bryce Basques. Together, they pursued every appropriate non-surgical treatment before deciding surgery offered the best path back to both baseball and everyday life.

Just three weeks after returning to the lineup, Nick stepped to the plate and hit a walk-off home run.

His story, detailed in the video above, is a testament to expert care, perseverance, and never giving up on the activities you love.

When Conservative Treatment Isn’t Enough

Nick first met with Dr. Bryce Basques after developing significant back pain during his sophomore season.

As with many patients experiencing a herniated disc, surgery wasn’t the first option.

Dr. Basques guided Nick through months of conservative treatment, including physical therapy, medication, injections, and activity modification, with the goal of relieving his symptoms without surgery.

Unfortunately, despite following the treatment plan, Nick’s pain continued to worsen.

“I couldn’t walk around the house comfortably. Sitting in the car hurt. Sleeping was uncomfortable. It got to the point where I was willing to do whatever it took.”

While returning to baseball remained important, Nick realized the injury was affecting much more than his athletic career.

“I started thinking about my future. I wanted to be able to throw a baseball with my kids someday. It wasn’t just about baseball anymore—it was about my quality of life.”

Finding the Right Solution

As Nick’s symptoms persisted, additional evaluation revealed why conservative treatment wasn’t providing lasting relief.

During surgery, Dr. Basques discovered that, along with a herniated disc compressing a spinal nerve, Nick had developed a cyst that was placing additional pressure on the same nerve.

“The vast majority of patients with a herniated disc improve without surgery,” says Dr. Basques. “But when pain persists despite appropriate conservative treatment—or when nerve compression continues to significantly affect someone’s quality of life—surgery can be the best option to relieve pressure on the nerve and help patients return to the activities they enjoy.”

Back on the Baseball Field

Nick underwent spine surgery with Dr. Basques at University Orthopedics.

The procedure successfully relieved the pressure on the affected nerve, allowing him to begin rehabilitation and focus on recovery.

Nick committed himself to every phase of rehabilitation, determined to earn his way back onto the baseball field.

His hard work paid off.

Just three weeks after returning to the lineup, he stepped to the plate in one of the biggest moments of his career.

He hit a walk-off home run.

“It was something I’d dreamed about my whole life.”

More Than a Return to Baseball

For Dr. Basques, success isn’t measured only by MRI scans or surgical outcomes.

It’s about helping patients return to the lives they want to live.

Whether that’s competing in collegiate athletics, working without pain, or simply enjoying time with family, the goal is always the same: restoring quality of life.

Today, Nick is back in the gym, back on the baseball field, and living without the pain that once controlled his daily routine.

“I can’t thank Dr. Basques and everyone at University Orthopedics enough. They gave me the chance to play baseball again.”

Don’t Ignore Persistent Back Pain

Most episodes of back pain improve with time and conservative care. That’s why spine specialists often begin with treatments such as physical therapy, medication, injections, and activity modification.

However, when pain persists, radiates into the leg, causes numbness or weakness, or interferes with daily activities despite appropriate treatment, it may be time for a comprehensive evaluation.

The spine specialists at University Orthopedics offer both non-surgical and surgical treatment options tailored to each patient’s condition and goals. Their focus is always on providing the least invasive treatment possible while helping patients return to active, healthy lives.

Whether you’re a competitive athlete or someone simply hoping to get back to work, hobbies, or time with family, expert spine care can help you get back in the lineup.