Michael J. Clark, M.D.
Philosophy of Care
"Every patient who comes into my clinic is different. My job is to recognize which of the many potential diagnoses is present and work with patients to develop a plan for healing based on their backgrounds, activity levels, and goals. The most important attribute a surgeon can have is understanding the proper indications for surgery. At times, surgery is necessary to achieve their desired results. But more frequently, conservative non-operative treatments can get them back to a healthy and high-functioning state."
Specialties
Expertise Overview
Dr. Clark specializes in comprehensive foot and ankle care with expertise in both conservative and surgical treatment approaches. Dr. Clark's commitment to staying current with evolving surgical techniques and his emphasis on proper surgical indications ensure that patients receive evidence-based, personalized care focused on achieving optimal outcomes.
Expertise in Foot & Ankle Surgery
Foot and ankle surgery has evolved exponentially in recent years, moving far beyond what was considered standard practice for decades. Dr. Clark has remained at the forefront of these advances through his fellowship training and ongoing commitment to education. Minimally invasive techniques have emerged as successful alternatives to traditional surgery for multiple pathologies. These modern approaches allow surgeons to achieve excellent outcomes through smaller incisions with reduced tissue disruption, leading to faster recovery times and improved patient satisfaction.
Another significant advancement has been in the treatment of end-stage ankle arthritis. Total ankle replacement has evolved into a more viable, long-lasting option for patients who previously would have been limited to ankle fusion. Dr. Clark's expertise in this area enables him to offer patients contemporary solutions that preserve ankle motion and improve quality of life. He remains committed to staying current with emerging techniques and technologies by regularly attending conferences and reviewing current literature, ensuring his patients benefit from the most effective and up-to-date treatment options available.
Areas of Expertise
Fellowship
- Foot and Ankle Surgery, Andrews Institute for Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine; Gulf Breeze, FL
Residency
- Atlanta Medical Center; Atlanta, GA
Medical Degree
- Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center School of Medicine; Lubbock, TX
Certifications
- Board Certified; American Board of Orthopaedic Surgeons
Associations
- American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society
Hospital Affiliations
- Emory Saint Joseph's Hospital
Staff Working With Michael J. Clark
Awards
