Michael D. Neel, M.D.

In this issue we meet Dr. Michael Neel from orthomemphis, nominated for his compassion, willingness to collaborate with colleagues and dedication to his calling – helping others.

Receiving his medical degree at the University of Tennessee College of Medicine, Dr. Neel followed his training with a fellowship in orthopaedic oncology at the University of Florida. He specializes in musculoskeletal oncology and total joint replacement of the hip and knee, as well as dedicating himself to pediatric orthopaedic oncology at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Dr. Neel is a fellow of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, and a member of the Musculoskeletal Tumor Society, and the International Society of Limb Salvage Surgeons.

orthomemphis provides comprehensive orthopaedic care at 6286 Briarcrest Avenue in Memphis, including orthomemphis Spine Center & Physical Therapy.  The mission of orthomemphis physicians and staff is the provision of state-of-the-art, personalized orthopaedic care. orthomemphis currently has fifteen physicians and a rehabilitation staff of 12 therapists. orthomemphis is a division of MSK Group, P.C.

Role model… My father- his dedication to his family, faith and career were an inspiration. His memory is a constant reminder to always try my best in everything that I do.

Motivation… My patients, particularly my pediatric ones. The courage with which they fight their diseases is a great motivator.

How do you maintain a work/life balance? My wife, Liz and children, Elizabeth Ann and Robert, are the first to let me know if my work/life balance is out of order.
Favorite quote or song lyric… Never take counsel of your fears.

What would you do if you weren’t a doctor? I truly don’t know. I have wanted to be a doctor pretty much all my life.

What is the most exciting medical breakthrough you’ve witnessed in your career? Surgeons, particularly orthopaedic surgeons, performing traditional surgeries through smaller incisions. By causing less trauma to the tissues, these surgeries have improved recovery times and ensure patients get back on their feet sooner. Several of my partners and I are performing these at orthomemphis, and we have been pleased with the results.

I think, over the next ten years, we will see an explosion of procedures that are done in a tissue-sparing fashion that lessens the time for recovery but improves overall function.
How do you actively support the community? I am an active member of my parish, St. Peter Church downtown, and I am on the board of the Madonna Learning Center, a special needs school.

Good Health Advice… The same advice my mother gave me– do all things in moderation, except laugh.