For an impressive 27 years, Chris Wheeler, PA-C, has been a driving force at Access Sports Medicine, where he diagnoses and treats patients, assists in surgeries, and provides high-quality care in close collaboration with physicians.
Beyond his impactful work here, Chris serves as the Northeast Regional Director of the Physician Assistants in Orthopaedic Surgery (PAOS), playing a key role in advancing orthopedic care and education.
Teaching at the PAOS Orthopedic Boot Camp
Recently, Chris brought his skills to the PAOS Orthopedic Boot Camp in Charlotte, North Carolina. This specialized conference was designed for physician assistants and nurse practitioners with fewer than three years of orthopedic experience, providing them with hands-on opportunities to enhance their skills and deepen their knowledge.
Leading Workshops on Shoulder Arthroscopy and Knee Injection Techniques
At the boot camp, Chris played an integral role in the Principles of Shoulder Arthroscopy and Knee Injection workshops.
During the shoulder arthroscopy workshop, he guided participants through arthroscopic techniques on cadavers, teaching them how to use cameras and tools intraoperatively. He also demonstrated proper positioning techniques, like the beach chair and lateral decubitus positions, highlighting their importance based on surgeon preferences.
For the knee injection workshop, Chris demonstrated proper injection techniques, particularly for cortisone injections. Chris provided hands-on guidance and feedback on needle placement, angles, and pressure.
Making an Impact Through Hands-On Learning
“The hands-on approach really made an impact,” Chris said. “It was exciting to watch their confidence grow as they practiced with the tools and techniques. You could see their excitement as they realized, ‘I can do this.’”
Mentoring the Next Generation of Orthopedic Professionals
A highlight for Chris was mentoring a physician assistant who had been practicing for just six months. “We worked one-on-one for over two hours, and by the end, he was feeling so much more comfortable. He was genuinely grateful for the feedback and the chance to really dig into the details,” Chris shared.
Chris’s passion for teaching and mentoring shines in everything he does. Whether he’s working with new practitioners or helping seasoned professionals refine their skills, his energy and expertise inspire everyone around him.
We’re incredibly proud to have Chris Wheeler as part of the Access Sports Medicine family. His commitment to education and excellence continues to elevate not just our team but the entire field of orthopedics.