Michael Potter, MD

I’m Michael Potter, MD, FAAOS, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon with Phelps Health. My collaborating provider is Orthopedic Physician Assistant Brett Clayton. I joined the organization in 2012. I am skilled and well-trained in shoulder surgery, sports medicine and general orthopedic surgery, as well as conservative treatment options. I also perform in-office steroid, PRP (platelet-rich plasma) and hyaluronic acid injections. I recommend first attempting nonsurgical treatment for most injuries.

My father is a family practice physician, and growing up, I worked in his clinic. I’ve always liked working with my hands and repairing and maintaining cars. In medical school, I discovered that orthopedic surgery allowed me to bring together my love for medicine and mechanics. 

As an orthopedic surgeon, I care for many patients who other surgeons are unable or unwilling to treat (severe injury, high-risk, previously failed surgeries, etc.). I proudly serve all patients; everyone deserves to be at their best and have the ability to do the things they love.

I enjoy working with patients to come up with a treatment plan that works best for them. I’m happy to discuss the options and make my recommendations but ultimately, I let the patient decide how they prefer to move forward with treatment. Patient-directed care increases the chances that the patient will stick to the treatment plan, resulting in better outcomes.

I was born in California, raised in Utah and currently live in Rolla, Missouri. My wife, Myndi, is a Rolla native and Phelps Health nurse. We take pride in serving our community in caring for and treating mutual patients. We share five beautiful children, three girls and two boys, and we love spending time together as a family. Completing our family is our dog, Olive.

Outside of work, I have several hobbies, including working on cars, wake surfing, boating and attending our children’s sporting events and other school-related activities. I also like running, going to the gym, snorkeling, skiing, hiking – basically anything adventurous! I love to travel, and my family thinks that I plan the best trips, near or far.

I choose to work at Phelps Health because it offers an ideal balance of physician freedom and a wide variety of services. With the local university in town and Phelps Health serving six counties, I am able to treat a diverse patient population. Finally, I enjoy the small-town feel, allowing me the ability to build quality relationships with my coworkers, patients and the community.