Ravi Kumar Ponnappan, M.D. is a board-certified and fellowship-trained orthopedic spine surgeon
with advanced expertise in complex spinal reconstruction and minimally invasive spinal surgery. For 19 years he has specialized in treating a wide range of debilitating spinal conditions, including spinal stenosis, herniated discs, spondylolisthesis, nerve and spinal cord compression, osteoporosis, back pain, and fractures. His approach reflects a deep, long-standing commitment to evidence-based, patient-centered care tailored to each individual’s needs and lifestyle.
In addition to surgical excellence, Dr. Ponnappan offers the latest in regenerative treatments designed to enhance the body’s natural healing abilities. These therapies can help reduce pain, improve function, and in many cases, eliminate or delay the need for surgery.
His comprehensive approach integrates innovative non-operative strategies with advanced surgical
solutions, ensuring patients receive the most effective and least invasive care possible.
Dr. Ponnappan joins Sforzo | Dillingham | Stewart Orthopedics + Sports Medicine from southern New Jersey, where he founded and directed a successful regional spine center serving patients across the tri-state area. He completed advanced fellowship training in complex spinal reconstruction and minimally invasive spinal surgery at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, one of the nation’s leading
institutions for spinal education and research.
As part of his academic career, Dr. Ponnappan has served on the teaching faculty at several prestigious medical schools, including Rush University Medical College, the University of Pittsburgh, and Thomas Jefferson University. He continues to hold faculty appointments as Associate Professor of Orthopaedic Spine Surgery at Cooper Medical School of Rowan University and Adjunct Clinical Assistant Professor of
Orthopaedic Surgery at Weill Cornell Medical College.
Health and fitness are core to Dr. Ponnappan’s philosophy of life and medicine. He maintains an active lifestyle through running and strength training, reflecting his belief in the connection between physical wellness and overall well-being.
Guided by compassion, precision, and innovation, Dr. Ponnappan takes the time to listen, educate, and partner with patients throughout their care journey. His mission is to restore mobility, relieve pain, and help patients return to the active, fulfilling lives they love—whether that means getting back in the game, back to work, or simply back to living comfortably and confidently each day.
