We’re continuing to celebrate some special anniversaries for our specialists! Dr. James West, III is celebrating 35 years as a spine specialist at The Orthopaedic Group, P.C. Over the time with our team, he has not only improved the lives of patients along the Gulf Coast, but also across the world.
AN EARLY INTEREST IN MEDICINE
A native of Nashville, Tennessee, West knew he wanted to go into medicine when he left to earn his bachelor’s degree in biology from Vanderbilt University. He would continue on this path, receiving his medical degree from the Medical College of Georgia, Georgia’s Health Sciences University. He completed his residency in orthopaedic surgery from the University of South Alabama Medical Center before completing his fellowship training in scoliosis and spinal reconstruction surgery at Twin Cities Spine Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota. He returned to the Gulf Coast when he joined The Orthopaedic Group, P.C., a place he’s been ever since.
ADVANCEMENTS IN MEDICINE IMPROVE PATIENT RECOVERY
Over 35 years, the advancements in medicine have shaped how Dr. West executes his treatment plans, but his goal of getting patients back to their former independent selves has stayed the same. Some of the significant changes Dr. West has seen in the field includes improvements to endoscopic surgeries, which reduces hospital stays and recovery times for the patient. He shares, “Knowing that we are getting the patient back to what they loved is the greatest reward.”
These advancements are transforming lives across the world, as Dr. West has taken his practice to areas that wouldn’t otherwise receive such specialized spinal care. One of his most memorable cases involved his traveling to Ecuador to help two 14-year-old patients diagnosed with scoliosis. With Dr. Howard, Dr. West performed surgery to correct the curvature of their spines – a life changing surgery for these two young patients. “Partnering with Providence Hospital and Bayside Medical Missions in Portoviejo, Ecuador has been one of the most rewarding experiences as a doctor,” West shares. “We were able to completely change the future for these young patients and I’m proud to play even a small role in their story.”
A PASSION FOR SERVICE
Dr. West is very giving of his time and expertise, serving in many local organizations, including The Medical Society of Mobile County, Alabama, Southern Medical Association, Scoliosis Research Society, and the My Salvation Army Advisory Board. He also is a adjunct clinical professor in the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery at the University of South Alabama’s USA Medical Center.
When asked about his greatest accomplishments, Dr. West didn’t share anything about his role in medicine – he says, “I’m most proud of the amazing kids I’ve raised with my beautiful wife – and enjoying the privileged title of graddad.” It’s no surprise that you can often find him spending time golfing, fishing, hunting, and just spending quality time with his family when he’s not in the office!
Thank you Dr. West for your outstanding commitment to our patients. We know many patients can credit their improved life to your 35 dedicated years of practicing medicine!
For more than 40 years, patients throughout the Gulf Coast have chosen our orthopaedic doctors at The Orthopaedic Group, P.C., for specialized care in the spine, shoulder, elbow, hand, and wrist, hip, and knee, and foot and ankle.
Our fellowship-trained doctors have extensive education and experience in evaluating, diagnosing, and treating all orthopaedic injuries and conditions.
Experienced, Expert care for over 40 years.
