To schedule a consultation with one of our orthopedic experts in Birmingham, Hoover, Pell City, or Vestavia Hills, please call (205) 228-7600 today or request an appointment online.
Athletes Treating Athletes
Where Athletic Experience Meets Orthopedic Expertise
At OrthoAlabama Spine & Sports, many of our sports medicine doctors are athletes themselves and understand the unique needs of athletes. Their firsthand experience with training, competition, injury, and recovery helps guide thoughtful, performance-focused care for athletes at every level.
Athletes place unique demands on their bodies, and effective treatment requires more than clinical knowledge alone. Several of our doctors have competed at different levels and remain active today. Because they’ve experienced the pressures and challenges of sport themselves, they understand what it takes to protect function, restore confidence, and support long-term joint health.
This shared athletic background allows our doctors to better understand:
- The physical and mental challenges of injury
- The urgency and complexity behind safe return-to-play decisions
- The importance of maintaining long-term performance and mobility
Whether you are a competitive athlete or simply want to stay active, you’ll be treated by a doctor who understands what movement means—and what it takes to get you back to the activities you love.
Our Experts
Bradly S. Goodman, M.D.
A former Division I tennis player at Vanderbilt University, Dr. Bradly Goodman understands the discipline and physical demands of high-level competition. His athlete perspective shapes a thoughtful, performance-focused approach to spine and sports medicine care.
Mary E. Gilmer, M.D.
Dr. Mary Gilmer is a lifelong endurance athlete, mountain biker, and trail runner, and she understands the demands active lifestyles place on the body. She combines clinical expertise with athlete-informed care focused on lasting recovery and performance.
Gene L. Watterson, Jr., M.D.
Former collegiate track and field athlete specializing in javelin, Dr. Gene Watterson brings valuable insight into biomechanics, performance, and injury recovery. His care emphasizes strength, durability, and long-term function.
Zane B. Hyde, M.D.
A former multisport athlete in baseball and football, Dr. Zane Hyde understands the realities of sports injuries from firsthand experience. He focuses on helping athletes recover safely, rebuild strength, and return to play with confidence.
Quoc Jonathan Tran, M.D.
A former competitive volleyball athlete with firsthand experience overcoming sports injuries and rehabilitation, Dr. Quoc Jonathan Tran brings an athlete’s perspective to recovery, performance, and long-term musculoskeletal care.
Janie Gracio, P.T.
An accomplished endurance athlete and multi-time Ironman finisher, Janie understands the physical and mental demands athletes face. Her athlete-informed approach helps active patients recover confidently and return stronger.