The Atlanta Spine Center Practice
The Atlanta Spine Center has been serving the Atlanta community for over 20 years. In that time we have had the pleasure of treating thousands of patients as well as their family and friends. Our whole body approach differentiates us from the traditional healthcare model and has allowed us to build meaningful long lasting relationships. We specialize in the evaluation and treatment of injuries and conditions affecting the musculoskeletal and nervous systems.
Our team approach to patient care commonly results in quick and sustained improvements. Our goals are to decrease your pain and improve your function. The treatment plans designed in our clinic try to limit the use of dangerous drugs or risky surgery, thus decreasing the possibility of any potentially harmful side effects. Throughout the years, our providers have worked in a variety of healthcare settings and have brought the best aspects of the patient centered model to you. We take pride in providing you with the ultimate care and attention that your health deserves.
There may be cases where co-managing with a specialist is your best option. In that event, we can confidently coordinate with the many relationships we have garnered with a vast variety of specialist to provide the care you need quickly and accurately. Personalized attention, established professional relationships with the Atlanta medical community, and a whole-person approach sets us apart.
As always the Atlanta Spine Center is “dedicated to your well-being”.
There is a “time and place” for each level of care. We have the ability to get you in the right place of care with multiple options, so time isn’t wasted.
When looking for a chiropractor in Atlanta, make the Atlanta Spine Center the first choice for your chiropractic and rehabilitation needs. We are more than just an Atlanta pain clinic, but a practice that treats the person, not just their physical complaints. If you have any questions about our practice, please contact us today.
Dr. Jeff Dowis
Dr. Dowis received his medical degree from the University Health Sciences, followed by an internship at the Medical College of Georgia and a residency at the Mayo Clinic. He also earned a Doctor of Chiropractic Degree from Life University in Marietta, GA. Dr. Dowis is a Major in the US Air Force Reserve and serves as the Chief Medical Officer to Mountain Lakes Medical Center.
There were other notable positions held by the good doctor including: Emergency Physician at Stephens County Hospital and Director of Mayo Clinic Primary Care in Waycross, GA. Growing up in Habersham County, Dr. Dowis understands the importance of ensuring quality medical care to our local community and we are proud to have him as our Medical Director. On his spare time he enjoys lake activities, golf, flying, wine making, working around the farm, as well as spending time with friends and family. He also enjoys classic boat restoration.
Dr. Fabiola “Fabi” Hoyo
Dr. Fabiola Hoyo is a dedicated chiropractor committed to helping patients restore movement, reduce pain, and enhance their overall quality of life. Originally from Puerto Rico, she is fluent in both Spanish and English—often blending in a little Spanglish for good measure!
Dr. Hoyo earned her Bachelor of Science degree cum laude before pursuing her chiropractic education at Life University, where she graduated magna cum laude. She is Activator and Webster certified, providing chiropractic care for patients of all ages—from pregnant mothers and young children to adults. Taking a personalized approach, she integrates various techniques and modalities to address each patient’s unique needs, the severity of their condition, and their personal preferences for optimal results.
Believing that “motion is lotion”, Dr. Hoyo emphasizes the importance of movement for healing and overall wellness. A strong advocate for physical activity, she encourages her patients to stay active, knowing that movement benefits both the body and mind. She often reminds them that recovery should be just as intentional as training.
Outside the clinic, Dr. Hoyo loves to read, watch sports, and is an avid runner. She frequently participates in races around the Atlanta area and has expanded her passion by traveling to take part in races across the country. Her dedication to education also extends to her practice, where she takes the time to inform and empower each patient while creating individualized care plans tailored to their specific health goals.
Whether you’re an athlete, a weekend warrior, or simply looking to move and feel better, Dr. Hoyo is here to help you restore motion, optimize recovery, and enhance your quality of life.
Summer Manning
Native of Huntsville, Alabama, Summer pursued studies in Business Administration at The University of Alabama in Huntsville before bringing her expertise to Atlanta in 2016. With over a decade of experience in business management and healthcare administration, she specializes in optimizing operations, financial oversight, and team leadership. A results-driven leader, she is committed to improving business performance, enhancing team productivity, and driving financial growth for the practice. Outside of the office, she enjoys exploring nature and spending time with her German Shepherd, Roman.
Dr. Gustavo “Gus” Perez
Dr. Gustavo A. Perez is a passionate and dedicated chiropractor who thrives on helping patients feel their best. With years of hands-on experience, he has worked with a diverse range of patients, specializing in personal injury care, musculoskeletal issues, and holistic wellness. Being from Puerto Rico he is fluent in both English and Spanish. A proud Life University graduate, Dr. Perez earned his Doctor of Chiropractic degree, along with a Bachelor of Science in Biology. His commitment to professional growth is evident in his certifications, including Graston Technique, TRT, and multiple FMT modalities. He works closely with physical therapists, orthopedists, and neurologists to ensure his patients receive the most comprehensive care possible. He excels in making patients feel comfortable, heard, and empowered in their healing journey. For Dr. Perez, chiropractic care is more than just adjustments—it’s about restoring movement, relieving pain, and improving lives one patient at a time.
Ellen Rull, DPT
Ellen Rull, PT, DPT joined Atlanta Spine Center in 2018 after earning her Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree from West Coast University in Los Angeles, California. During her time at West Coast University, Ellen completed her Capstone project on chronic pain and central sensitization, exploring critical aspects of pain management and rehabilitation.
Prior to pursuing her DPT, Ellen graduated with a degree in Kinesiology from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. While at Illinois, she contributed to research in an exercise psychophysiological laboratory, where the focus was on how emotional and cognitive health influences physiological changes during physical activity.
Ellen’s commitment to community service extends to volunteering with Special Olympic athletes at the World Games, as well as providing preventative care to underserved populations, including the homeless and elderly. Her approach to physical therapy is rooted in educational-based practice, with a focus on individualized care that empowers patients to reach their full potential.
Dr. Roberto A. Vargas was born in New York City and is a bilingual second generation chiropractor. Dr. Vargas graduated from John Adams High School in 1995 and was certified as a Medical Laboratory Assistant by the State of New York. He received his B.S. in biology from Bloomfield College in New Jersey. Later he moved to Marietta, GA where he graduated from Life University with his doctorate in Chiropractic. While at Life University he studied Functional Neurology through the Carrick Institute based in Cape Canaveral, FL. He has completed over 200 hrs earning credits towards his Diplomate in Chiropractic Neurology and Masters in Neuroscience. Dr. Vargas specializes in Spinal Trauma, Repetitive Stress Injuries, Peripheral Nerve Entrapments, Functional /Neurological Diagnosis and Treatment of Whiplash, Postural Disorders and Disc Injuries. His current passion lies in ergonomics which led to the creation of the Human Momentum Project with his business partner Dr. Vicky Yarns in 2014. Ergonomic certifications include Ergonomics Assessment, Ergonomics – Practical Applications and Healthcare Ergonomics by The Back School in Atlanta, GA.
Nutrition was another area of interest for the doctor as he attended many postgraduate seminars in clinical nutrition. Dr. Vargas received his certification in physiotherapy in 2002, which broadened his range of treatment options for those patients looking for rehabilitation in Atlanta. His approach incorporates Thompson, Diversified, SOT, Cox-Flexion/Distraction, Nimmo, and Rehabilitative techniques. Dr. Vargas joined the Atlanta Spine Center in 2006 and is now partner in the leading neuromusculoskeletal center in Atlanta. Besides being active in patient care Dr. Vargas has expanded into injury prevention by offering consulting services to corporations in the area of ergonomics and risk management.
Our very own Dr. Vargas was recently featured on Dynamic Chiropractic’s website which is the leading source for chiropractic news, articles, research & information. In this exclusive interview Dr. Vargas speaks about how The Atlanta Spine Center functions within the patient-centered medical home (PCMH), and how doctors of chiropractic can follow in Atlanta Spine Center’s footsteps in collaborating with like-minded health care providers to benefit patient care. You can view the entire interview here.
The Human Momentum Project (HMP) was founded in order to provide ergonomic solutions aimed at increasing employee and employer satisfaction as well as productivity while improving health and morale in modern-day workplace settings. The January 2014 issue of the ATLANTAN magazines Best of the City featured Dr. Vargas as one of Atlanta’s top health experts. Another publication featuring Dr. Vargas was Dynamic Chiropractic (July 15, 2014, Vol. 32, Issue 14) which is the leading source for chiropractic news, articles, research & information. The interview focuses on his role in a Patient Centered Medical Home and integrating chiropractic care for improved patient outcomes. He currently resides in Avondale Estates, GA with his family.
Dr. Kayhla Williams is a native of Little Rock, AR. She is a 2009 graduate of Philander Smith College where she received a Bachelors of Science in Biology. Following graduation she then attended the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences’ Public Health program. Upon completing one year of this program she continued her educational pursuit at Logan University in St. Louis, Missouri where she graduated with a Doctor of Chiropractic in 2014. She has respectively interned at the Veterans Hospital in St. Louis, West End Chiropractic, and St. Louis Acupuncture Clinic. In 2016, Dr. Williams earned her Master of Science Degree in Nutrition.
Prior to joining Atlanta Spine Center, Dr. Williams started practice in her hometown where she was voted the 2015 Little Rock Winner for Fans’ Choice Awards in Chiropractic Care. Dr. Williams understands that everyone’s situation is different and as a health care provider, she is dedicated to helping patients achieve their individual health goals. She is experienced in conservative pain management, injury care, nutritional therapy and natural approaches to health care. The health of the community she serves is truly her passion.
Dr. Williams is Nationally Board Certified and currently holds a Chiropractic license in both Arkansas and Georgia. She is a member of the American Black Chiropractic Association and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.
Dr. Vicky L. Yarns founded the Atlanta Spine Center (ASC) in 1996. Since that time, she has expanded the ASC into one of the leading centers of chiropractors in Atlanta. With over 15 years of experience and a diverse patient base ranging from infants to senior citizens, Dr. Yarns specializes in low back disorders including sciatica, headaches, work related symptoms (prolonged sitting, stress, posture), as well as infant development and pediatric care.
Dr. Yarns also has extensive experience in treating acute trauma patients ranging from automobile accidents to sports injuries. Among her hundreds of patients, she is well known for her thorough and gentle approach to musculoskeletal disorders. Each care and rehabilitation plan specifically customized to each patient’s particular needs. Her hard work and dedication has made the Atlanta Spine Center the preferred choice for pain clinics in Atlanta.
In her spare time, Dr. Yarns plays racquetball, golf and is distance runner. She is also an active community volunteer, particularly with non-profits and charities devoted to children and education. Dr. Yarns lives in the Atlanta area with her husband Shane Touhy, an award winning Chef, and their dog Tigger.
Education:
- Life Chiropractic College (Doctor of Chiropractic, 1995)
- Florida State University (B.S., 1991)
Associations: Georgia Chiropractic Association
Special Certifications: Low Back Management, Physiological Therapeutics; former instructor of physio therapeutics, rehabilitation of the spine and trigger point therapy