AAOS has many volunteers who contribute to the Academy’s examination development process. Through their experience and expertise, they offer their time to help build the future of our examination product offerings. Each quarter, we will celebrate these efforts with a featured volunteer in the AAOS Item Writer Spotlight.
Jonathan Packer, MD, FAAOS is the Chair of the Sports Medicine Evaluation Committee. We recently had the opportunity to talk with Dr. Packer about volunteering with the Academy and the great contributions he has made.
Thank you, Dr. Packer!
Can you share a bit about your background as an orthopaedic surgeon?
I am a sports medicine specialist, working at the University of Maryland in the Department of Orthopedics. I treat mostly knee and shoulder, but I can see any orthopaedic issue, especially in athletes. I am also the team physician for two Division 1 universities, including the University of Maryland Terrapins. I teach residents and do research, so I wear a lot of hats.
How did you first get involved with volunteer opportunities at AAOS?
I always wanted to be involved with the Academy. I went to AAOS meetings as a medical student and as a resident and always learned a lot. Most of my mentors have been involved as well so it’s something I’ve always wanted to do.
What drew you to specialize in sports medicine?
I found the surgeries very interesting and fun. I enjoy treating not only athletes, but active people in general. The focus is to get them back to the activities they are passionate about and allowing them to stay active.
What advice would you offer future Evaluation Committee Chairs?
What I have found most rewarding is the people I work with on the committee, getting to know orthopaedic surgeons you might not have crossed paths with otherwise. I also see it as a way to give back and contribute to the education of surgeons across the country and around the world. As chair, it’s a leadership role that’s about ensuring things run smoothly and bringing everyone together to create a great final product.
What’s something about athletes’ health or habits that might surprise fans?
What stands out most is the year-long dedication they put into it. Every day, even in the off season, athletes are working and making sacrifices to be the best. A lot of them will play through injuries that may not be disclosed to the public. I treat many collegiate student athletes and it takes a lot of organization, dedication, hard work, and help from others for them to thrive in both school and their sport.
You’ve worked with multiple sports teams—do you have a favorite mascot?
Obviously the best mascot is Testudo, the University of Maryland mascot, which is a diamondback terrapin.
How did your college experience influence your decision to pursue medicine?
I was a biomedical engineer and chemical engineer in college. Ultimately, I wanted to work with people more and have a direct impact on people’s lives, so that is what pushed me to go to medical school. We do use some engineering principles in surgery, but mostly learning how to work hard and problem solve has served me well in my career.
Outside of medicine, what hobbies or activities do you enjoy most?
First and foremost, I like spending as much time as possible with friends and family. I enjoy travelling with my wife, especially internationally. We like trying new restauarants and have a growing wine collection. Recently, I started gardening as a way to relax and spend time outside.
Do you have a favorite plant you’ve grown?
Probably peppers, because there are so many different varieties and levels of heat. They also grow well in our climate. I enjoy spicy food.
East Coast or West Coast—what do you like most about each?
I grew up on the east coast, so I’m biased, but I did spend a year on the west coast. The weather and no bugs on the west coast is nice, but the pace of east coast is more suited to my lifestyle.
Where can people find the best crab cakes?
Thames Street Oyster House is my favorite for seafood in general but also has one of the best crab cakes in my opinion. Nick’s also serves some of the best crabs and seafood around, with a great waterfront atmosphere.