Back troubles derail Roger Heinz

Posted Apr 7, 2006

Disc degeneration, a common disorder of the lower spine, is a normal part of aging. It will affect most people and is generally not a problem by itself. Roger Heinz wishes his prognosis was as simple. There are days when Heinz, a junior at North Carolina, suffers from severe back and leg pain, has difficulty standing or walking and experiences weakness or numbness in his legs while sitting in class due to rapid disc degeneration. "I am 21 with the lower back of a 70-year-old," Heinz said. (Tallahassee Democrat)

Related: Football, Football Recruiting

Early Bird Preview: UNC Football gets early shot at revenge vs. TCU in Dublin
Just like last season, UNC Football will take on TCU in the season opener, with the only difference being the game will be played in...
Tue May 26, 2026

Newsletter: Chapel Hill Regional Set, Neo Signs, Keita Wins EuroLeague Title, Latest On Samodurov
UNC Baseball hosts a tough Chapel Hill regional with VCU, Tennessee, and ECU coming to town this weekend. Neoklis Avdalas has signed with UNC Basketball,...
Tue May 26, 2026

Video: Air It Out with Bryn Renner - Episode 3: Jones Angell
Former UNC quarterback Bryn Renner sits down with "Voice of the Tar Heels" Jones Angell to talk about unforgettable Tar Heel moments, iconic calls, Kenan...
Mon May 25, 2026

Lawrence Taylor doing ‘much better’ after scary hospitalization
Lawrence Taylor’s recent scary medical issue is in his rearview mirror. The New York Giants legend, who spent several days in a hospital this spring,...
Sat May 23, 2026