We are thrilled to introduce Dr. John Burke, an accomplished orthopedic surgeon specializing in advanced and well-established hand and wrist treatments. Dr. Burke is not only an expert in his field, but he also brings a deep connection to our community, making his return to Savannah a true homecoming.
A Savannah Native with a Passion for Healing
Dr. Burke’s journey into the world of orthopedics began right here in Savannah. Raised on Wilmington Island, his first encounter with orthopedics was a personal one—a knee injury sustained during football season at Savannah Christian Preparatory School. It was during his treatment that he discovered the incredible resilience of the musculoskeletal system. This experience ignited a passion for helping others heal, and it set him on the path to becoming an orthopedic surgeon.
Music and athletics have always been integral parts of Dr. Burke’s life, and they continue to play a significant role in his daily routine. But it was his fascination with the body’s ability to recover and his desire to provide quick, tangible results for patients that truly fueled his ambition to pursue a career in orthopedic surgery.
A Journey of Excellence
After graduating from The University of Georgia, Dr. Burke pursued his dream of becoming an orthopedic surgeon by attending medical school at The Medical College of Georgia in Augusta. His journey continued at University of Florida Health Jacksonville, where he completed his orthopedic residency. During his residency, Dr. Burke had the unique opportunity to rotate at the prestigious Mayo Clinic Florida, where his interest in hand and wrist surgery deepened.
The turning point in his career came during a base of thumb arthroplasty, where he witnessed the intricate and complex nature of the hand’s tendons and bones up close. “It’s the part of our body that lets us interact with the world,” he recalls. “Having your hands impaired is a huge challenge for anyone trying to work, hold their loved ones, or just enjoy normal life. You get to help people grab hold of their life again. It’s a wonderful specialty.”
To solidify his expertise, Dr. Burke completed a fellowship at the renowned University of Alabama Birmingham/Andrews Sports Orthopaedic Center, further honing his skills in hand and wrist treatments.
Returning Home to Serve the Community
For Dr. Burke, coming back to Savannah is more than just a professional milestone—it’s a personal dream come true. “It’s been a dream to come back to Savannah where all my friends and family still live. It’s where I’ve always wanted to raise my family and serve the home I came from,” he says. “I’m extremely fortunate to come back to the community that formed my upbringing and be able to work in a field that helps them get their grasp on life back. That aspect is really important to me.”
We are excited to have Dr. Burke join our team and bring his exceptional skills and compassionate care to our patients. Starting on September 9, 2024, Dr. Burke will be available for consultations and treatments at our clinics in Savannah, Jesup, Pooler, and Vidalia. We are confident that his expertise in hand and wrist surgery will be a tremendous asset to your community, helping patients regain their strength, function, and quality of life.
Please join us in welcoming Dr. John Burke back to Savannah! We look forward to the positive impact he will have on our patients and the community we all call home.
Find out more about John Burke, MD at
www.optimorthopedics.com/john-burke-md
