Michelle Pepper, M.D.

Physiatrist with Sports Medicine Fellowship

What is a physiatrist?

Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation specialists (physiatrists) are medical doctors who are motion and function experts treating a variety of conditions involving the joints, spine, tendons, ligaments and nerves. They have specialized training in biomechanics, gait analysis, nerve and muscle function and physical exam techniques. They are well educated on both surgical and non-surgical treatment options and can help guide your decision on which treatment path is right for you. They are specially trained to work as part of a multi-disciplinary team of professionals including physical/occupation therapists, massage therapists, chiropractors, nurses, primary care providers and other specialists to optimize the care for the patient. We help to fill the gap between orthopedics, neurology, rheumatology, and primary care.

As a physiatrist, my goals with my treatment plans are to:

Properly diagnose your condition
Educate you on all available treatment options
Optimize function
Minimize pain
Promote health
Instill hope
Prevent injury and disability
Maximize performance

Why should I choose a sports medicine physiatrist instead of a family practice sports doctor?

Physiatrists have more extensive training during residency on the neurologic and musculoskeletal systems and more focus on optimizing function. They typically receive more extensive training on ultrasound of the musculoskeletal system as well as ultrasound and Xray guided injections. They perform diagnostic studies of the nerves (EMGs) and have better training on diagnosing, treating and understanding the timeframe for recovery after a nerve injury.

How are physiatrists different from physical therapists?

Physiatrists are medical doctors with extensive training in the diagnosis and breadth of treatment options available in the treatment of orthopedic and neurologic conditions. They can order diagnostic tests, prescribe therapies and medications, and perform injections when necessary.

Why should I see a sports medicine physiatrist before seeing an orthopedic surgeon?

Physiatrists are able to properly diagnose orthopedic conditions just like orthopedic surgeons, however, our focus is on treating the whole person, maximizing function, minimizing downtime, and looking at all potential treatment options. We have a broad medical expertise and extensive training in non-surgical treatment options. I have also worked hand in hand in a large multi-specialty orthopedic group and am well versed in surgical treatment options for most conditions. I can help you understand ALL of your options so you can choose what is best for you. If surgery is your best option, I can help you find the best surgeon for your condition and understand what to expect over the course of your treatment.

Dr. Pepper's Education

8/2009-7/2010 Fellowship: Sports & Spine Medicine. University of Utah. Salt Lake City, UT.

7/2006-6/2009 Residency: Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Residency. University of Colorado. Denver, CO

6/2005-6/2006 Internship: Transitional Year Internship. Aurora St. Luke’s Medical Center. Milwaukee, WI

8/2001-6/2005 Medical School: Medical Doctorate. Alpha Omega Alpha. Medical College of Wisconsin. Milwaukee, WI

8/1998-6/2001 Post-Graduate: Certificate in Acupuncture & Chinese Medicine. Ruseto College. Boulder, CO

9/1994-3/1998 Undergraduate: Bachelor of Science, Biochemistry & Biology, Summa Cum Laude. University of Denver. Denver, CO