Physician Spotlight on Dr. Jordan Pasternack

How did you get interested in foot and ankle surgery?

During my residency in orthopedic surgery, I found the anatomy and physiology of the foot and ankle to be fascinating. There are a wide array of pathologies and conditions that people suffer from in this anatomic area, and thus many ways to treat them. Each day at work brings something new. Each patient presents a unique opportunity to create a treatment plan that is best tailored to his or her individual life, goals, and pathology.

What is your practice philosophy?

I’m a strong advocate for treating patients and not ailments. Two people with the same condition may have different lifestyles or goals so the treatment plans that I create for each would look different. I don’t believe in a one-size fits all approach, because each patient is far more than their specific complaint or diagnosis.

How do you stay current in your field?

Staying current in my specialty is crucial to providing the best care for my patients. I make it a point to continue learning and growing by going to conferences, reading journals, and conducting and publishing my own research as well.

What trends are you seeing in foot and ankle surgery?

Like other surgical specialties, we’re seeing a big increase in minimally invasive techniques, which benefits the patient due to smaller incisions, less tissue damage, and a faster recovery time. I am also seeing a trend toward ankle replacements for ankle arthritis and deformity. Traditionally, this would have been treated with fusion of the ankle joint.

What are your personal interests?

In my free time, I enjoy cooking, hiking, and recreational sports like football and wrestling.