One of Us

Dr. Garrett Schwarzman

Posted

Dr. Garrett Schwarzman is a board-certified surgeon who recently joined Flagler Health+ Orthopedic Specialists. He is practicing at Flagler Hospital’s St. Augustine campus and at Flagler Health+ Village at Nocatee.

Tell me what kind of treatment you provide, and maybe something about the types of injuries or conditions you most frequently see.

I mainly treat sports injuries. Especially ACL, rotator cuff and labral tears. I also really enjoy treating various hip pathologies, including labral tears and FAI. 

You recently joined Flagler Health+ Orthopedic Specialists. Can you tell me about your education and career up to that point?

I went to the University of Wisconsin for my undergraduate studies in chemistry and history, the University of Illinois for medical school and my orthopedic surgery residency, and then on to the Andrews Institute for my Orthopedic Surgery Sports Fellowship.

I was interested to see that you were an accomplished athlete, which I imagine offers you greater insight into the field of sports medicine. Can you tell me about your athletic background?

I have always loved competing and being active. I swam and played football in high school and then was recruited to the crew team at Wisconsin. After my time rowing, I competed in marathons and triathlons, culminating in two Chicago marathons and a Half Ironman. I’ve also won a few snowboarding championships. 

I was the team physician for Auburn University football, UIC basketball, the Pensacola Blue Wahoos minor-league baseball team, and the WNBA Chicago Sky. I’ve also worked with Team USA Volleyball, Team USA gymnastics, and multiple high school teams in the Chicago and Pensacola areas.

What do you like best about what you do?

It is really rewarding to be able to help people get back on the field or court and enjoy what they love to do again. Helping people stay active throughout their lives is a great part of my job. 

Where are you from originally? Have you lived in Northeast Florida long?

I’m originally from Chicago. My wife and I just moved to the area two months ago.

What do you like best about living in this area?

The beach and the nice weather are definitely major selling points. To be able to stay active and outside all year long is great. I love having no more freezing cold winters.

How do you like to spend your free time?

I enjoy cycling and running still and snowboarding when I can make it out west. Spending time with my wife and puppy and going hiking with them, too. We love going to the beach and going mountain biking on new trails in the area. I also really enjoy learning anything new, especially history or science.