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

Where Bill Belichick lands in On3 Sports' ACC football head coach rankings
With 333 wins, 17 AFC East Titles and six Super Bowls as an NFL head coach, Bill Belichick is undoubtedly the greatest pro football coach...
Sun Jun 28, 2026

UNC Football Opponent Snapshot: Virginia
UNC Football travels to Virginia on Nov. 21. The Cavaliers are coming off a breakout season in coach Tony Elliott's fourth season at the helm,...
Sun Jun 28, 2026

New England Patriots QB Drake Maye Honored With Pair of ESPY Nominations
Despite being several months removed from his debut in the Super Bowl, Drake Maye's sparkling 2025 NFL season continues to be recognized. The New England...
Sat Jun 27, 2026

Seth Trimble’s shot to beat Duke, walk-off Supers win highlight UNC takeover day on ACCN
A full day of memorable North Carolina victories, from postseason thrills and rivalry showdowns to a memorable Seth Trimble shot, will take over ACC Network...
Sat Jun 27, 2026