Erin Hofer, MD
Orthopaedic Trauma Surgeon
Hughston Orthopaedic Trauma
TriStar Skyline Medical Center
Nashville, TN
Member Since: 2015
How has the AAOS helped you throughout your career?
My first presentation at an orthopaedic meeting was at the AAOS Annual Meeting as a medical student (if you can say 'degenerative spondylolisthesis' on a stage in front of hundreds of experts, you can do anything). Then in 2026, I spoke as an expert at the Annual Meeting's OTA Specialty Day. It felt like a full-circle moment. I also found ResStudy to be very helpful as I studied for my boards as a chief resident.
As a Candidate Member, which AAOS resources do you use most and why?
JAAOS keeps me up to date with the latest orthopaedic research – I don't miss an issue. The OrthoInfo patient resources are great for patients and for friends and family members.
What’s the best advice you were ever given? Who was it from?
"Slow is smooth and smooth is fast." I think the phrase originated in the military, but I learned it from Dr. Tom Schaller, a mentor from my residency program at Prisma Health Greenville.
What’s your go-to productivity trick?
If it will take less than two minutes, do it right then. I also love paper to-do lists. Crossing tasks off with a pen just makes getting things done that much more satisfying.
What’s one thing you’re currently trying to make a habit?
Skincare. And taking my vitamins more than twice a month.
What hobbies do you enjoy in your spare time?
Exercise (HIIT classes, biking), reading, shopping, hiking, baking.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that not many people know?
I thought I wanted to do OB/GYN when I started medical school.