What inspired you to specialize in sports and spine medicine?
The cliché version is that I have been a lifelong athlete and saw the impact of sports injuries on my college soccer team. However, I'm not sure that really was the main reason. I always wanted to be a doctor and that stems from my desire to help people. During medical school, I was drawn to the musculoskeletal system and hands-on procedures. I knew I didn't want to be a surgeon and sports medicine was a natural fit for me. I enjoy both the diagnostic side of sports medicine as well as the procedural side.
Why did you choose to join UW Medicine?
My first exposure to UW was when I interviewed here for residency. I was drawn in by the people in the residency program and how it truly felt like a family. After spending four years here as a resident, I knew this was where I wanted to start my practice as an attending. I wanted to be in an environment where I would be pushed to excel in my clinical practice and could incorporate my passion for teaching while working with medical students, residents, and fellows.
What is your favorite part of working with patients in this field?
My favorite part of working with the patients I see is providing them with answers and (hopefully) solutions to the problems that bring them to clinic. For some patients, all they need is a diagnosis, and for others, they are looking for relief from symptoms. Seeing the relief that comes from knowing why they are experiencing certain symptoms or that comes with treatments such as injections provides joy to all parties involved.
What is one easy tip for spine/joint health you wish everyone would follow?
Well, I think we all "know" it already but stay active. Find something that you are able to do and that you enjoy and keep doing it!
When you are not in the clinic, what do you enjoy doing?
So many things: spending time with family and friends doing things we enjoy such as hiking, biking, skiing, camping, and traveling (both locally and abroad).
