A CLOSER LOOK AT DR ERIC JAMES – Orthopedic Foot & Ankle Surgeon

In our ongoing series of SOA physician interviews, we’re getting an up close and personal look at each of our physicians. This week, we asked Eric James, MD, orthopedic foot & ankle surgeon at Sarasota Orthopedic Associates, to answer some questions and share his thoughts with us.

What inspired you to become a physician?

In middle school I began shadowing a family friend who was an orthopedic surgeon. I found it to be very interesting and it really stuck with me. I studied engineering in college so I would have a broad background, but knew I wanted to work in orthopedics… so, here I am!

Why orthopedics?

I have always been more of a mechanically minded person and there is no better field than orthopedics for the mechanic/engineer/tinkerer. A lot of what we do on a daily basis is correcting biomechanical abnormalities, so it really fit me well.

What do you love most about your job?

Seeing someone complete the process of healing and have an opportunity to get back to doing the things they love.

If I weren’t an orthopedic physician I’d be an __________________.

Engineer, programmer, product designer, something in the technology field.

Where is the most interesting place you’ve travelled? Why?

Costa Rica for a surfing trip before college started. We spent a good deal of time immersed in the culture and I have a lot of great memories from that trip

Any hobbies? Activities?

I enjoy being outside and particularly on the water. I grew up surfing, fishing and diving, so I am starting to get back into some of that. I just took up paddle boarding, which is a lot of fun and great exercise too!

What’s your next adventure?

I am in the process of getting recertified for diving and I am looking to get back into spearfishing. Otherwise, I am looking forward to a relaxing vacation as season winds down!

Your guilty pleasure food?

Mint chocolate chip ice cream

Note: Eric James, MD is a fellowship trained orthopedic foot & ankle surgeon at Sarasota Orthopedic Associates. You may read his professional biography and watch his video on our website here. SOA has four locations in Sarasota, Lakewood Ranch, Venice, and Bradenton and we offer same day appointments when needed. For an appointment with Dr James or any of our 13 physicians, please call 941-951-2663. Our commitment is to get our patients back on their feet, back to work, back in the game, and back to life.