CHATHAM ORTHOPAEDICS - Key Persons
Alexandra is from Charleston, SC, where she received her Bachelor of Science in Public Health before graduating from the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences with a master's degree in Occupational Therapy. She enjoys working with individuals of all age ranges. Alexandra is particularly interested in the rehabilitation of the upper extremity and is currently pursuing her specialty certification in hand therapy. Her hobbies include running, spending time with family, and traveling.
Alison (Ali) was born and raised in Johnson City, Tennessee. She received her bachelor's degree in Athletic Training from Liberty University in 2020. Following her time at Liberty, Ali was the Graduate Assistant Athletic Trainer for football and track and field at East Tennessee State University (ETSU). While at ETSU, she earned her master's degree in Sport Management. Ali is the Athletic Trainer at Savannah Christian Preparatory School and is excited to help her athletes stay healthy while playing the sports they love.
Amanda graduated from the Medical College of Georgia with a Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies and received her Bachelor of Science in Biology and Psychology from the University of Georgia. She has gained experience in all sides of the business, working as a research assistant, medical billing assistant, and medical assistant. In 2013, she became a physician assistant for Chatham Orthopaedic Associates. Amanda is a volunteer at the Christ Church Health Clinic and has spent time volunteering at the St. Mary's NICU.
Amanda Soto graduated from Effingham County High School in 2006, and later graduated from South University in 2009. She has been working in the physical therapy field for 10 years, primarily in outpatient orthopaedics. Amanda has training from Kinesio University for kinesiotaping and has been certified in IASTM using RockBlades. In her free time Amanda enjoys running, CrossFit, reading, and spending time with her family.
After graduating from Charleston Southern University in 2005, with a Bachelor of Science in Biology with a pre-med emphasis, Andrew attended South University where he received a master's in physician assistant studies. He became a physician assistant at Chatham Orthopaedics in 2010, after gaining experience in a diverse array of clinical rotations. Andrew developed his self-motivation, teamwork skills, and his ability to work well under pressure as a Division 1 NCAA collegiate baseball player while at Charleston Southern University.
Andrew is a native of Savannah, where he graduated from Benedictine Military School in 2003. He later graduated from South University in 2008, with his physical therapist assistant degree. Since his degree, he has completed several hours of continuing education with an emphasis in manual therapy to address joint abnormalities, muscle tension issues and pain during movement. He also enjoys working with athletes from surrounding areas and is able to relate with a number of patients due to his own past sports injuries.
Auburn grew up in North Alabama. She ran cross country and track and field at Union College in Kentucky, where she graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Athletic Training and a master's in Healthcare Administration. While pursuing her master's degree, Auburn was an athletic trainer for Knox Central High School. Her favorite part of her job is being able to help athletes perform to the best of their ability, both mentally and physically. Auburn is currently the athletic trainer for Islands High School.
Caleb grew up in Le Sueur, Minnesota. In 2021, he graduated from Bethel University in St. Paul, Minnesota with a bachelor's in Kinesiology and a concentration in Athletic Training. He then graduated with a master's in Athletic Training from Winona State University in Winona, Minnesota in 2023. His favorite part of his job is being able to help athletes perform at their highest level both on and off the field. Caleb relocated to Savannah in 2023 and is currently the athletic trainer at New Hampstead High School.
Chetan S. Deshpande, M.D., is board-certified in Orthopaedic Surgery and specializes in orthopaedic trauma, joint replacement, anterior hip replacement, and general orthopaedics. Double majoring in Marine Biology and Secondary Education at Boston University, he then attended New York Medical College where he received his M.D. After completing his internship and residency at St. Joseph's Regional Medical Center, Dr. Deshpande completed a fellowship at the Georgia Orthopaedic Trauma Institute in Macon, Georgia. In May 2013, Dr. Deshpande was recognized for his work in the field with a nomination for physician of the year.
Dr. Deshpande has given lectures and presentations for various orthopaedic events across the U.S. since 2006. He has also been involved in orthopaedic research and has several peer reviewed publications. In addition to his orthopaedic work, Dr. Deshpande has volunteered his time as a captain, driver, lieutenant, and other positions in community fire departments.
After graduating from the University of Georgia with a Bachelor of Business Administration degree, Chip earned a second bachelor's degree in physician assistant at the Medical College of Georgia. Promptly after graduation, Chip interned with a physician in orthopaedic surgery and has been working as a physician assistant in various practices throughout Savannah ever since. Chip joins the Chatham Orthopaedics team with more than 40 years of experience, working mostly in occupational medicine with an emphasis in orthopaedics and emergency medicine. Chip is also a member of the American Society of Safety Engineers, the American Academy of Physician Assistants, and the Georgia Association of Physician Assistants.
Cindi attended the University of Oklahoma where she received her Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy. She also attended the University of Virginia where she performed her clinic rotation in sports medicine. Cindi's experience in the medical field began in 1993. Since then, Cindi has gained many years of experience as an acute physical therapist and outpatient physical therapist at a variety of hospitals and therapy centers. Prior to joining Chatham Orthopaedic Associates, Cindi worked as a physical therapist in outpatient physical therapy at a local rehabilitation and sports medicine center.
Clara is the office manager and received a master's degree in physical therapy from Touro College in New York. She oversees all scheduling and billing processes. Clara aspires to continually improve the communication between physicians, case managers and other members of the healthcare community, in order to provide the best care to patients.
Colleen Keefe, a Maryland native, graduated from Towson University with a kinesiology degree in 2003. She relocated to Savannah and continued her education earning her physical therapist assistant degree from South University in 2010. Colleen joined Chatham Orthopaedic Associates in 2015, bringing clinical experience with an emphasis in orthopedic, cardiovascular and neurological disorders. She has a special interest in working with orthopedic patients rehabilitating after surgery and providing the best possible care. In her free time, Colleen enjoys traveling, running and spending time with her family.
Daniel received his Bachelor of Science in Physician Assistant Studies from Alderson Broaddus University in Philippi, West Virginia. Through the years, Daniel has acquired a litany of real-world experience, especially in the realm of sports medicine. He has worked with the 1996 Atlanta Committee of Olympic Games, United States Weightlifting Federation, and numerous college, high school, and club teams. He has been a lecturer for Armstrong Atlantic State University, South University, and Memorial's medical training programs, as well as a speaker for the Georgia Physician Assistant conferences where he has served as president of the association. He was the program developer of the Candler Sports Medicine and Wellness Program and has been with COA since 1991.
Denise Holloway earned her M.A. in Education and her Bachelor of Science degree in Athletic Training from Wright State University in Dayton, Ohio. After graduation, Denise worked for Miami Middletown University. She then moved on to be the Senior Woman Administrator at the University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo. Denise has worked as an athletic trainer for several high schools in Ohio, at SCAD, and currently serves as the athletic trainer for Savannah Arts Academy. Denise has experience in high school, university, Olympic, and military settings, and always strives to provide the best care for her student-athletes.
Derek graduated in 1998, from the University of Evansville in Evansville, Indiana, with his master's degree in physical therapy. Derek received a Master in Business Administration with an emphasis in healthcare administration from Bradley University in Peoria, Illinois, in 2002. Derek has many years of clinical experience, with emphasis in sports medicine rehabilitation of shoulder, knee, foot and ankle injuries. Derek has a strong interest in athletics and enjoys combining this passion with his clinical expertise to help individuals care for and prevent injuries resulting from every day to high-performance activities.
Doug earned his Bachelor of Education degree from Ashland University, specializing in Health/Physical Education and Art, and earned his Master of Education in Special Education and Athletic Training from the University of Georgia. His career experience spans teaching, coaching, and athletic training in the public secondary school venue. He has been a part of the Olympic Medical Staff/Soccer Venue and a state championship football program. Additionally, he is an Air Force veteran flight medic and served as a certified volunteer firefighter, EMT, and deputy coroner for many years. Doug is currently the athletic trainer for Savannah High School.
Specializing in Pediatric Orthopaedics and Scoliosis, Evan Siegall, M.D. attended the University of Florida before completing his internship and residency at the Atlanta Medical Center's Department of Orthopaedic Surgery. It was during this time that Dr. Siegall was awarded with the Top Gun Award for earning the highest score within the program on the Orthopaedic In-Training Examination. After finishing his internship and residency, Dr. Siegall completed the fellowship program at Nemour's Children's Clinic in Jacksonville, FL.
Greer E. Noonburg, M.D., is board-certified by the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery and received his medical degree from Dartmouth. Dr. Noonburg specializes in sports medicine, arthroscopy of the upper and lower extremities, fracture care, and shoulder/knee replacement. He provides a less invasive alternative to many orthopaedic procedures, including minimal incision joint replacement, arthroscopic ligament repair and endoscopic carpal or cubital tunnel surgery. Dr. Noonburg's goal for every patient is to provide state-of-the-art orthopaedic treatment in a supportive, caring environment. He is an Associate Clinical Professor of Surgery at Mercer School of Medicine and has published several articles in prominent orthopaedic journals and local magazines.
Job Titles:
- Physician With the Spine Institute
Gregory Spellman, M.D., has a special interest in treating chronic pain with the latest techniques to decrease the reliance on opioid pain medications. He utilizes radiofrequency ablation, spinal cord stimulation, epidural steroid injections and other procedures to help those in pain.
As a physician with The Spine Institute at Chatham Orthopaedic Associates, Dr. Spellman also provides initial visit evaluations for neck and spine injuries and pain.
Dr. Spellman and his wife, Alison, also a physician, are happy to call Savannah home with their two children.
James graduated from Georgia College and State University in 2014 with a bachelor's degree in Athletic Training and a Master of Science in Human Performance in 2016. After graduation, James worked in Anchorage, Alaska, covering high school athletics, club soccer, adult rugby, and various winter sports. James joined COA in 2020 and is currently an athletic trainer for Savannah College of Art and Design's Men's Soccer, Swimming, Tennis, Cycling, and E-Sports intercollegiate teams.
James E Holtzclaw, M.D., began his private practice in Savannah, Georgia, following his fellowships abroad. He maintains a strong interest in minimally invasive anterior approaches to hip replacement and complex hip fractures and reconstruction. He also is deeply interested in joint replacement surgery, including hip and knee replacements, as well as revision procedures. He continues to treat all general orthopaedic problems, and a significant portion of his practice involves outpatient procedures such as arthroscopy.
Jason was born and raised in Savannah, Georgia. He received his physical therapist assistant degree from South University in 2005. He has gained invaluable experience working with patients of all ages who have conditions ranging from sport and work-related injuries to post-operative rehabilitation. Jason has a strong commitment to helping his clients alleviate their pain, so they can achieve their highest level of function. His hobbies include scuba diving and martial arts.
Jennifer Oliver, a native of Savannah, received her Bachelor of Science at Armstrong Atlantic State University in 2010. She spent 10 years as an oncology nurse in the inpatient setting. She obtained her masters degree in Family Nurse Practitioner at Chamberlain University in 2020 and went on to practice with palliative care working with symptom management before joining Chatham Orthopaedics. She is excited to work alongside Dr. Spellman and the pain management team.
Joey is a native of Savannah. He graduated from Benedictine Military School in 2003. He received a Bachelor of Science in Health Science from Armstrong Atlantic State University in 2007. In 2012, Joey graduated from the Medical College of Georgia with a doctorate in Physical Therapy. With over eight years of experience in outpatient physical therapy, Joey takes pride in helping his patients achieve their goals and return to independence. From running injuries, to neck and back disorders, to athletic injury prevention, Joey enjoys treating all ages and abilities.
John is a senior athletic trainer for Chatham Orthopaedic Associates. His degrees and certifications are from Rowan University in New Jersey. After working with several parochial and public schools in the northeast, John moved to Savannah in 2007 and began to work for the MHUMC Rehabilitation & Sports Medicine department. Spencer Wheeler, MD, has been his medical director for over 17 years. John also has worked with Dr. Marvin Sineath, MD, at MHUMC as an adjunct faculty member for the MHUP Family Medicine residents' Sports Medicine fellowship. John currently assists with the Injury Clinic at COA, while also working closely with the clinical orthopaedic and rehabilitation staff to help ensure a safe return to play for student-athletes. John is a sports medicine consultant with the Paralympic Women's Wheelchair Basketball team and is also currently managing the COA Sports Medicine contract at Bethesda Academy.
John T. Prather, M.D., a native of Savannah, is board-certified in Orthopaedic Surgery and practices general orthopaedics with a focus on surgery of the foot and ankle. Within his foot and ankle specialty, specific areas of interest include trauma, sports injuries, forefoot reconstruction, ankle arthroscopy, as well as total ankle replacement. Dr. Prather has presented his research at the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society national meeting and holds operative privileges at Memorial University Medical Center, Effingham Health System, and St. Joseph's Candler Hospitals. Dr. Prather provides services in our Savannah, Rincon, and Pooler office locations.
After completing her Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology, Kaitlin continued her studies to graduate with a Doctorate of Physical Therapy, both from Georgia Southern University. She has inpatient, outpatient, and pediatric experience as a student physical therapist and has worked as a physical therapy aide. She is a member of the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA), the American Physical Therapy Association of Georgia, and the Georgia Southern University Physical Therapy Club. Kaitlin joined Chatham Orthopaedic Associates in January 2023.
Karen joins the Chatham Orthopaedics team with over 15 years of experience as a physician assistant. She graduated summa cum laude from Duquesne University with a bachelor's degree in health science in 2002, and a master's degree in physician assistant studies in 2003. As the spouse of a Coast Guard officer, Karen has moved up and down the East Coast throughout her career. She has gained a broad range of experience in multiple surgical specialties including adult and congenital cardiac surgery, neurosurgery, general surgery, and plastic surgery.
After receiving a Bachelor of Arts in Biological Science from Smith College in Massachusetts, Kate came to Savannah to work as an assistant competition manager for the sport of sailing for the Atlanta Committee for the Olympic Games. She received a Bachelor of Science of Physician Assistant Studies from South University in Savannah, and then a Master of Physician Assistant Studies from the University of Nebraska. Kate's experience in the medical field began in 1992, at Memorial Medical Center as a nurse assistant in neurology/neurosurgery, then as a physician assistant at Neurological Institute of Savannah, followed by a graduate studies coordinator of the Physician Assistant Program at South University before becoming a certified physician assistant at Chatham Orthopaedics in 2004.
Kate earned her bachelor's degree in Science from Armstrong Atlantic State University and her Master of Science degree in Physician Assistant Studies from South University in 2017. Before joining Chatham Orthopaedic Associates, she spent the past five years working locally in orthopaedics with a focus in pediatric orthopaedics. She joined Dr. Evan Siegall in 2022 and works alongside him as his first assist in the operating room and during clinic.
Kelsey received her Bachelor of Science in Agriculture in Biological Sciences from The University of Georgia in 2016. She then attended Augusta University, formerly the Medical College of Georgia, where she earned a Master of Physician Assistant Studies degree. During her clinical rotations, Kelsey gained a wide range of experience in several areas including breast and reconstructive surgery, addiction medicine, pediatrics, adult medicine, and burn and trauma surgery. Kelsey's professional experience includes working as a medical scribe and medical assistant.
Kenneth is a Savannah native who graduated from Georgia Southern University. He obtained a Bachelor of Science in Physician Assistant Studies from South University, followed by a Master of Physician Assistant Studies from the University of Nebraska. Kenneth's professional experience spans the fields of cardiology, neurosurgery, and gastroenterology, with the majority of his professional career having been dedicated to orthopaedics. Since starting at Chatham Orthopaedic Associates over ten years ago, Kenneth has served as a preceptor to numerous physician assistant students during their orthopaedic surgery clinical rotation.
Kristin, a native of Savannah, earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Armstrong Atlantic State University in 2008. She gained clinical experience working and caring for patients in surgery and in the office setting before deciding to go back to graduate school. She graduated from South University with her Master of Science in Nursing as a Family Practitioner degree in 2022. She is dedicated and excited to provide her patients with the highest level of care at Chatham Orthopaedic Associates.
Kristy received a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology with an emphasis in exercise science from Georgia Southern University in 2003, a Master of Science in Physical Therapy from Armstrong Atlantic State University in 2005, and a Doctor of Physical Therapy from Northeastern University in 2012. Her professional areas of interest include treatment of orthopedic impairments, particularly the shoulder joint, lumbar and cervical spine. She also provides volunteer physical therapy services locally at the Good Samaritan Clinic. Kristy enjoys traveling, spending time with family and friends and being involved at her church.
Leslie is a Savannah native who graduated magna cum laude with honors from the University of Georgia. She had a successful four-year collegiate career as a NCAA Division 1 soccer player at UGA. She then went on to obtain her master's in physician assistant studies from Georgia Regents University, formerly known as the Medical College of Georgia. She has worked one-on-one alongside Dr. J. T. Prather as his first assist in the operating room and during clinic since her hire in 2013. She is well versed in postoperative care of all foot and ankle procedures including trauma, total ankle replacements, fusions, forefoot reconstructions and arthroscopies. She also has experience treating some of the most complex foot and ankle conditions including acquired flatfeet, Charcot, and hindfoot deformities.
Lindsay was born and raised in Savannah, GA. She holds a Bachelor of Health Sciences from Armstrong State University and a Master of Health Science in Occupational Therapy from Augusta University, formerly known as Medical College of Georgia. She gained experience at the Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center in Augusta, GA working in the spinal cord injury unit. She is interested in the rehabilitation of the upper extremity including traumatic injuries, chronic conditions, and work-related injuries and is currently pursuing her specialty certification in hand therapy.
Lori earned her associate degree in business administration with a minor in psychology from Middle Georgia College and her Bachelor of Science in Physician Assistant from Medical College of Georgia. In 2001, Lori received her Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies with a pediatric focus from The University of Nebraska. Lori has more than three decades of physician assistant experience and has also worked as a clinical coordinator and assistant professor for South University's Physician Assistant Program in Savannah.
M. Gage (Trey) Ochsner, III, M.D., a native of Savannah, specializes in sports medicine with a focus on knee and shoulder arthroscopy, hip arthroscopy and preservation, elbow arthroscopy, ulnar collateral ligament (Tommy John) surgery, and general orthopaedics. He completed his orthopaedic surgery residency at the University of Tennessee-Campbell Clinic in Memphis and his fellowship in orthopaedic sports medicine at Andrews Sports Medicine and Orthopedic Institute in Birmingham, Alabama. Over the course of his training, he assisted in the care of multiple high school, collegiate, and professional teams including the University of Memphis athletic programs, Rhodes University athletic programs, Memphis Redbirds baseball team, Memphis Grizzlies basketball team, Birmingham Barons baseball team, and the University of Alabama athletics. Dr. Ochsner and his wife have two children. He enjoys football, playing saxophone, hunting, fly-fishing, and other outdoor activities with his family.
Madeline, who also goes by Maddie, was raised in Cedartown, Georgia. Along with graduating from South University's PTA program in 2017, she holds a B.S. degree in rehabilitation science with a neuro minor from Armstrong Atlantic State University in 2014. Maddie enjoys working with patients of all ages and injuries. Maddie enjoys both watching and playing a wide range of sports ranging from golf and swimming to volleyball and spike ball.
After receiving her Bachelor of Science in Biology from Northern Kentucky University, Malissa earned her Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies from South University in Savannah, GA. It was at South University where she gained hands-on experience in internal medicine, emergency medicine, orthopedics, and several other areas. Malissa also gained experience by working as a student athletic trainer while at NKU and with several YMCA programs across the state of Ohio as an exercise therapist for R.E.P.S. Before joining the PA team at Chatham Orthopaedics in 2009, she worked as a physician assistant/assistant clinic director at Ideal Image.
Marilyn Palcic, MPAS, PA-C attended Wright State University in Dayton, Ohio where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology. She received her Physician Assistant Certification at Kettering College of Medical Arts in Kettering, Ohio. She has practiced in all disciplines of orthopaedics in Ohio, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, and North Carolina. Marilyn moved back to Savannah in 2020, to work again with Dr. Chetan Deshpande. She enjoys hiking, camping, outdoors, weightlifting, sports, running, reading, and spending time with her dogs and family.
Mark A. Jenkins, D.O., a native of Savannah, joined Chatham Orthopaedic Associates in 2001, and became board-certified in orthopaedic surgery in 2003. Dr. Jenkins takes orthopaedic trauma calls on a regular schedule and was the former Director of Orthopaedic Trauma at Memorial Health University Hospital. He also holds active staff privileges at Memorial, Saint Joseph's and Candler hospitals. Dr. Jenkins is an Associate Clinical Professor of Surgery at Mercer School of Medicine and is actively involved in teaching Mercer's medical students and residents.
Dr. Jenkins has published several articles in peer reviewed orthopædic journals and has presented scientific posters and papers at the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgery's yearly meeting. He also has lectured at several national orthopaedic conferences.
Mary Ann is a native of Alabama and received her undergraduate degree in accounting from Auburn University in 1984. She worked as an auditor for the Federal Government in Atlanta before returning to school for physical therapy. She graduated with a Master in Physical Therapy from Armstrong Atlantic State University in 2000. Mary Ann has worked for a hospital-based outpatient clinic full time since graduation with part time work in acute care, inpatient rehabilitation and home health. She received her certification in McKenzie Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy in April 2017, and finds it to be an excellent tool for evaluation and treatment of neck and back pain in addition to pain in the extremities. She joined Chatham Orthopaedic Associates in 2019. Mary Ann enjoys spending time with her family and friends, going to the beach, and running.
Maryfaye was raised in Hogansville, Georgia. She graduated from Georgia Southern University in 2022 with a bachelor's degree in Exercise Science with a concentration in Athletic Training. She is a board-certified Athletic Trainer and is licensed in the state of Georgia. Maryfaye joined Chatham Orthopaedic Associates in July of 2022 and is currently the Athletic Trainer for Groves High School.
Matt earned his Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the College of Coastal Georgia in 2012. After gaining years of clinical experience working in intensive care units, he graduated from South University in 2021 with a Master of Science in Nursing and as an adult nurse practitioner. Matt currently serves on Dr. Greer Noonburg's team. He is dedicated to bringing his experience, knowledge, and compassion to the patients at Chatham Orthopaedic Associates.
McKinley is a Texas native who graduated from Baylor University and worked for seven years in pharmaceutical sales prior to returning to school for a degree in medicine. Knowing she wanted to work as an orthopaedic PA, McKinley worked in several roles at an orthopaedic practice while she completed her prerequisite coursework. She received her Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies from South University where she gleaned valuable clinical experience in general and orthopedic surgery, family and internal medicine, pediatrics, women's health, and behavioral health.
Once completing his Bachelor of Science in Biology at Georgia College & State University, Michael obtained his master's in physician assistant studies. He has experience as a nuclear chemist and has practiced as a physician assistant for over a decade. Michael has participated in previous volunteer opportunities in Jamaica and at Houston Medical Center. In September 2022, Michael joined the Chatham Orthopaedic Associates team.
After graduating from Georgia College & State University with a Bachelor of Science in Biology, Mike earned his Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies from South University in 2017. During his various clinical rotations, Mike gained hands-on experience in areas including orthopaedic surgery, emergency medicine, family medicine, general surgery, pediatrics, and more. Mike's professional experience includes working as a physical therapy tech in Atlanta, and later as a wellness coach in Covington, GA.
During residency and spine fellowship, D'mitri Sofianos, M.D., received comprehensive training from the Departments of Orthopaedic Surgery and Neurosurgery in all aspects of spine care, including the latest minimally invasive techniques and state-of-the-art instrumentation for both the cervical and lumbar spine.
Dr. Sofianos has published numerous scientific articles and book chapters. Additionally, he has been welcomed internationally as a visiting surgeon and educator in various countries, including Burma, Australia, and Ghana.
Dr. Sofianos has a special interest in treatment of the aging spine and minimally invasive microsurgery.
Nysa received a bachelor's in Athletic Training from the University of La Verne in 2016, and a master's in Athletic Training from the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa. At the University of La Verne, she had a successful collegiate volleyball career. Nysa previously worked on the island of O'ahu, providing coverage at Sacred Hearts Academy and Punahou School. Currently, she is an athletic trainer at the Savannah College of Art and Design, where she works with the Women's Lacrosse, Equestrian, Cross County, and Track and Field teams. Nysa's favorite part of athletic training is being able to care for an athlete from the beginning of their injury to when they are back playing the sport they love.
Olivia Turner, a Savannah native, received a Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of North Georgia in 2017. She then graduated with a doctorate in Physical Therapy from Augusta University in 2022. Olivia has experience in outpatient physical therapy. Outside of work, she enjoys running, spending time on the water, and gardening.
Paige received a Bachelor of Science degree in Athletic Training and a Bachelor of Science degree in Exercise Science from the College of Charleston in 2013. She previously worked at Woodville Tompkins High School as a sports medicine teacher and athletic trainer. Paige is currently an athletic trainer at the Savannah College of Art and Design, where she works with the Women's Soccer team and the Men's Lacrosse, Bowling, and Golf teams.
Paige Mincey, a native of Savannah, received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the College of Coastal Georgia. She gained extensive clinical experience working as a registered nurse at Memorial Health University Medical Center and Duke University Hospital. She then obtained a Master of Science in Nursing with a specialization in Family Nurse Practitioner from South University in 2015. Prior to joining Chatham Orthopaedic Associates, Paige provided patient-centered care as a licensed nurse practitioner and gained experience in primary care and general orthopaedics. She is board-certified by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners.
An X-Ray technologist is a certified technologist that radiographs patients. X-Ray technologists have formal training and certifications.
Job Titles:
- Medical Director for the Merit Independent Physician Association
R. Dow Hoffman, M.D., specializes in the treatment of shoulder and knee problems, including shoulder and knee arthroscopy, knee ligament reconstruction, and shoulder and knee replacement surgery. He is a graduate of Duke University School of Medicine and completed his residency at the University of Iowa Hospitals. Dr. Hoffman then served four years as an orthopaedic surgeon in the United States Navy, achieving the rank of Lieutenant Commander, before joining Chatham Orthopaedic Associates in 2003. He is board-certified in orthopaedic surgery and has a Certificate of Added Qualification in sports medicine awarded by the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery.
Dr. Hoffman provides medical care for the Savannah College of Art and Design's athletic teams. Dr. Hoffman is Medical Director for the Merit Independent Physician Association, former chairman of the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery at Memorial Health University Medical Center, a member of Memorial's Joint Replacement Center of Excellence, and is past president of the Medical Staff at Memorial. He also is an active member of the orthopaedic surgery departments at Memorial Health University Medical Center, St. Joseph's Hospital and Candler Hospital.
Ronald H. Levit, M.D., completed specialty training in hand & upper extremity surgery at the Curtis National Hand Center, a prestigious program in Baltimore, Maryland, designated by Congress as The National Center for the Treatment of the Hand and Upper Extremity. Dr. Levit is a board-certified orthopaedic surgeon and has received a Certificate of Added Qualification in hand surgery.
Dr. Levit utilizes the most advanced minimally invasive procedures to treat common upper extremity conditions, in addition to many common general orthopaedic problems and conditions. Most of his procedures are performed on an outpatient basis under regional anesthesia, allowing for a more pleasant surgical experience.
Dr. Levit also provides specialized medical care for many of the areas collegiate and high school athletes. He is an active member at Memorial University Medical Center, St. Joseph's Hospital, Candler Hospital and Effingham Hospital. Dr. Levit's goal is for his patients to resume their normal level of activity and participation in sports as quickly and painlessly as possible, while providing a relaxed, caring medical setting.
After graduating from Clemson University with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology, Ryan went on to earn his Surgical First Assistant Certificate from the Meridian Institute of Surgical Assisting. He later earned his Master of Orthopaedic Physician Assistant from the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences as well as his Master of Science in Physician Assistant at South University. Over the past few years, Ryan's clinicals allowed him to work at various medical facilities in the South, including a rotation here at Chatham Orthopaedics. Through his clinicals, Ryan gained valuable experience in orthopaedics, pediatrics, general surgery, family medicine, internal medicine and more. Ryan is also a member of the American Academy of Physician Assistants (AAPA) and the Georgia Association of Physician Assistants (GAPA).
Sara is a graduate of Florida State College at Jacksonville, where she received her certified occupational therapy assistant degree. She is specifically interested in the therapeutic treatment of upper extremity and hand conditions, including traumatic injuries, neuropathies, repetitive strain injuries and occupation-related injuries. She continually strives to supplement her skills through continuing education with an emphasis in upper extremity rehabilitation. Sara also enjoys running, yoga, travel and spending time with family.
After graduating from The University of Tennessee with a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry, Sarah received her Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies from South University, where she was recognized with an Academic Achievement Award and served for three years as a Student Ambassador. Sarah's professional experience includes serving as a medical assistant and pediatric neurosurgery physician assistant before coming on board at Chatham Orthopaedic Associates.
Spencer M. Wheeler, M.D. graduated from the University of Georgia before receiving his medical degree from the Medical College of Georgia. Dr. Wheeler then attended the University of Florida where he completed his internship and residency in Orthopaedic Surgery. He has also completed two Sports Medicine fellowships after residency. His fellowships were at Union Memorial Hospital in Baltimore, Maryland and at North Sydney Orthopaedic and Sports Medicine Centre in Sydney, Australia.
Dr. Wheeler has been intimately involved in local, state, national and international Sports Medicine, including the 1996 Olympic Games and 7 World Championship events. He has served as team physician for Armstrong Atlantic State University for 18 years and at Savannah College of Art and Design for 16 years. He continues to treat many Olympic and professional athletes, as well as "weekend warriors." Dr. Wheeler specializes in arthroscopy of the knee and shoulder, but also continues to treat general orthopaedic problems.
Stephanie was born and raised in Winthrop Harbor, Illinois. She received her Bachelor of Science and Master of Science in Athletic Training from Illinois State University in 2011 and 2013. While at Illinois State, Stephanie was the athletic trainer for the softball team. Since relocating to Savannah in 2015, she has worked at Johnson High School and is now the athletic trainer at Woodville Tompkins High School.
Ted Samaddar, M.D., M.P.H., specializes in treating all injuries and conditions of the hand and upper extremity, including fractures and arthritis of the hand, wrist, and elbow. He has special expertise in treating nerve injuries, including peripheral nerve injuries, compression neuropathies (carpal tunnel, cubital tunnel), complex microsurgical reconstruction, and upper extremity trauma. Dr. Samaddar also specializes in minimally invasive treatment, including endoscopic carpal tunnel release.
Dr. Samaddar completed his specialty training in Hand, Upper Extremity, and Microvascular Surgery from the University of Alabama at Birmingham after completing his residency in Orthopaedic Surgery at the Medical University of South Carolina. During his training, Dr. Samaddar assisted in the care of multiple high school, collegiate, and professional teams, including Charleston Battery Soccer, Charleston Riverdogs Baseball, the University of Alabama at Birmingham, and PGA TOUR golf professionals.
Outside of the office, Dr. Samaddar is an avid golfer and outdoorsman. In addition, he enjoys watching football, golf, tennis, and baseball. He and his wife, a Hilton Head Island native, have four children who love spending time on the water and at the local beaches.
Vanessa was raised in Chicago and attended Bradley University in Peoria, IL receiving a Bachelor of Science in Biology in 1995. She relocated to Savannah to attend Armstrong State University and earned a master's in physical therapy in 2000. She worked for ten years for a major hospital system in Savannah with a concentration in neurological rehab, balance disorders and orthopedics. She then joined the team at Chatham Sports Medicine & Physical Therapy in 2011. Vanessa especially enjoys working with the aging athlete. She feels that the time patients spend in the PT clinic is key to them being able to return to activities that they enjoy, whether it's sports, or just taking a walk around the neighborhood. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family, traveling, golf and getting out in the boat exploring coastal Savannah.