What inspired you to specialize in sports and spine medicine?
A lot of sports and spine medicine is being a teacher and a coach for your patients. I think I'm a teacher at heart, and the mentors I had during my medical education were all great teachers. I wanted to be like them. Ultimately that's what led me to this field.
Why did you choose to join UW Medicine?
I was fortunate to do my fellowship here, and after working with the faculty group here for a year, I didn't want to leave.
What is your favorite part of working with patients in this field?
The success stories are always fun. Just yesterday I talked with a patient of mine who's been rehabbing a hip injury for the past nine months, has made tremendous progress, and will be competing nationally in her sport this coming week.
What is one easy tip for spine/joint health you wish everyone would follow?
Your spine is stronger than you think—you don't have to protect it. Keep moving.
When you are not in the clinic, what do you enjoy doing?
Keeping up with my daughters (8 and 10 years old); a weekly pick-up basketball game; rediscovering hobbies I had as a kid, like Lego.
