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

Freshman Linebacker Calvin Thomas Earns First Career Start Against Pitt
When North Carolina traveled to Pittsburgh for its matchup against No. 25 Pitt, freshman outside linebacker Calvin Thomas found himself with an opportunity to take...
Thu Oct 15, 2026

Everybody knows about Josh Downs. That's the Colts' problem
Josh Downs is the Colts' best third-down weapon. And every defense knows it. When quarterback Daniel Jones lines up on third down and sees pressure...
Thu Oct 15, 2026

Video: Carolina Football - The Process, UNC vs. Pitt - "Black Air Force One" Energy
North Carolina Football's long-form video feature The Process, Episode 3 goes behind-the-scenes with the Tar Heels' to highlight the Tar Heels' 21-17 road victory over...
Thu Oct 15, 2026

UNC LB Derek McDonald Becoming NFL Prospect While Running Belichick’s Defense
Since arriving at UNC in January, after five seasons at Syracuse, UNC middle linebacker Derek McDonald has become one of the Tar Heels’ team captains,...
Thu Oct 15, 2026