This month we recognize rheumatologist R. Franklin Adams, M.D.

Descended from four generations of Mississippi physicians, Robert Franklin Adams is the son of noted plastic surgeon, Dr. Milton Adams. Frank received a bachelor’s degree from Washington and Lee University and his Medical Degree from the University of Tennessee Medical School.

During the Vietnam War, Frank served as a lieutenant in the U.S. Navy medical corps at Camp Pendleton, California, where he became medical director for all naval medical personnel sent to Vietnam.

Returning to Memphis to complete a fellowship in rheumatology at the University of Tennessee, Frank has practiced with The Arthritis Group, PC since 1970.  During his career he has taught scores of internal medicine and orthopaedic residents in the Methodist Hospital and University of Tennessee teaching programs. He currently serves as an Associate Clinical Professor of Medicine at the University of Tennessee.

Role model? My dad. I loved his style, his work ethic, his compassion.  He was a plastic surgeon to notables and celebrities, but had little tolerance for conceit or vanity, and did tons of charity surgery.  He loved real people, and respected real talent at all levels – from bricklayers to the most expert neurosurgeons.

What motivates you? I’m not quite sure, and sometimes whatever it is I wish it would stop! Ultimately, it’s the blessing of relieving pain and misery.

What is your greatest accomplishment? Finding a profession that perfectly fits my character and personality. I learned I was much at better at mind games than I was at surgical finesse.

How do you maintain a work/life balance? I love to mix it up with friends on the golf course, and I love clever humor at all levels.  Plus, my mountain retreat in Arkansas.

What is your favorite quote? The pain of discipline is much less than the pain of failure (unknown author).
Where do you see your specialty in 10 years? I foresee further refinements in the immuno-biologic treatments for rheumatoid arthritis, lupus and scleroderma, and maybe eventually, immunizations to prevent these diseases!

My patients… are my unmitigated charge, but many are also my friends – some my favorite friends.

How do you actively support the community? I continue to practice dedicated rheumatology, and I help with the Arthritis Foundation.  Retirement doesn’t interest me, though I would like more time to do some writing; some professional, some personal.

Good Health Advice? I believe it’s more important that we avoid the bad than just accentuate the good. Avoiding nicotine, excessive drinking, obesity, and addictive drugs, etc. are all critical to good health. A runner who smokes is still a smoker. But to use running to eliminate smoking, excessive weight, or, even stress, is fabulous.