Photo by Madison Kirkman Craig Phelps

SPORTS MEDICINE

Name of medical school:
A.T. Still University’s Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine

Years in practice:
26

Who is your personal health care hero?
Andrew Taylor Still, M.D., D.O. Dr. Still stepped forward in the 1890s to innovate a new model in medical education, “osteopathic medicine.”

“I decided to become a doctor when...”
In grade school, I observed the relief on the faces of patients as they were consoled by our family’s doctor and thought helping others would be a special gift to share.

What made you choose sports medicine in particular?
It was a new field built upon comprehensive (whole person) care for athletes and patients in general. As an athlete, I felt I could connect well with patients having a common interest.   

“If I weren’t a doctor, I’d be...”
Hopefully still involved in health care and education.

“When I’m not working, I like to...”
Spend time with my wife, Stacy, and son, Zach, work out and read.

Name a personal habit, vice or activity of YOURS that you would advise yourself NOT to do if you were your own doctor.
Not skipping fruits and vegetables. I need to eat more fruits and vegetables, really.

What’s the best thing you ever did for your own health?
Limit food portions and recommit to exercising four to seven days a week.

If you could change one thing about the U.S. health care system, what would it be?
All Americans should have access to affordable, quality health care without undue financial burden. Healthy citizens are our country’s most valuable resource.

What innovation, invention or new technique would you most like to see in the medical field in the next 10 years?
Providers and others in health care focus on an affordable public health strategy implementing personalized, whole person health care.

What’s the most common misconception about sports medicine?
You can fix any injury “yesterday.”

Who are some the notable athletes you’ve treated?
Suns, Mercury and players from visiting teams (NBA and WNBA), Olympic athletes, professional dancers and musicians.