At UAB, we are committed to training the next generation of leaders in orthopaedic sports medicine. Our ACGME-accredited fellowship offers an unparalleled clinical and research experience within a high-volume, diverse academic medical center. Located in the vibrant city of Birmingham, Alabama, UAB provides a unique environment for comprehensive training in the prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of musculoskeletal injuries in athletes of all levels.

Why Choose UAB?

• Comprehensive Clinical Experience: Fellows gain extensive exposure to a wide spectrum of sports-related injuries, from common conditions to complex multi-ligamentous knee reconstructions, cartilage restoration, shoulder instability, shoulder arthroplasty, elbow ligament reconstruction, and hip preservation procedures. Our faculty are experts in arthroscopic and open surgical techniques.

• High-Volume Surgical Training: You will participate in a substantial number of surgical cases, ensuring proficiency and confidence across a broad range of procedures. Our fellows are integral members of the surgical team, progressively gaining autonomy as they advance.

• Diverse Patient Population: UAB serves a diverse patient population, including elite professional and collegiate athletes, high school athletes, and recreational enthusiasts. This breadth of exposure prepares fellows to manage any sports medicine challenge.

• Dedicated Faculty Mentorship: Our fellowship is built upon a foundation of dedicated faculty mentorship. Fellows work closely with nationally recognized orthopaedic sports medicine surgeons who are passionate about teaching and committed to your professional development.

• Robust Research Opportunities: As a leading academic institution, UAB offers exceptional research opportunities. Fellows are actively involved in clinical research projects, contributing to advancements in sports medicine. Dedicated research time and resources are provided to facilitate scholarly pursuits.

• Team Physician Experience: This fellowship offers hands-on experience that provides crucial insights into sideline medical care, injury prevention strategies, and the unique demands of caring for athletes in their competitive environments. Fellows gain invaluable experience as team physicians for a variety of athletic programs, including:

  • NCAA Division I Athletics (UAB Blazers)

  • Local collegiate programs

  • Numerous high school sports teams

  • Professional sports organizations (Birmingham Legion FC, Birmingham Bulls Hockey)

• State-of-the-Art Facilities: Train in cutting-edge surgical suites, advanced imaging centers, and dedicated rehabilitation facilities, all equipped with the latest technology.

• Collaborative Environment: Benefit from a collaborative learning environment with residents, other fellows, and allied health professionals, fostering a holistic understanding of patient care.

Fellowship Highlights

• Duration: 1 year (August 1 - July 31)

• Number of Fellows: 1 per year

• ACGME Accredited: Yes

• Call Schedule: Sideline care. There will be no hospital or emergency room related on call duties.

• Conferences and Didactics: Weekly didactic sessions, grand rounds, journal clubs, and surgical case conferences provide a structured educational curriculum. Opportunities to attend national sports medicine conferences are also supported.

• Anatomy Lab: Regular access to the anatomy lab for cadaveric dissection and wet lab surgical simulation.

Curriculum and Rotations

The fellowship curriculum is designed to provide comprehensive exposure across all facets of orthopedic sports medicine. Rotations include:

• General Sports Medicine Clinic and Operating Room Experience: Extensive experience with common and complex knee, shoulder, hip, and elbow pathology.

• Specialty Clinics: Exposure to areas such as hip preservation, foot and ankle sports injuries, and spine in athletes.

• Rehabilitation and Physical Therapy: Understanding the principles of rehabilitation and working closely with physical therapists.

• Biomechanics and Research: Dedicated time for research projects and understanding biomechanical principles.

• Athletic Training Room Coverage: Direct involvement in the care of athletes on the field and in the training room.

Meet the Faculty

Application Process

Our program participates in the SF Match. All applications must be submitted through their online system.

Application Requirements

• Completion of an accredited orthopedic surgery residency program

• USMLE Steps 1, 2, and 3 passed

Contact

For more information about the UAB Sports Medicine Orthopedic Fellowship, please contact Felisa Guess at fguess@uabmc.edu.

We look forward to receiving your application and helping you achieve your career goals in orthopedic sports medicine.

Life in Birmingham, Alabama

Birmingham offers a vibrant and affordable living experience with a thriving food scene, numerous outdoor activities, and a rich cultural heritage. From hiking and biking trails to live music venues and world-class museums, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

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