Faith and Resilience in Sports Medicine

Featuring Dr. James Carr, Orthopedic Surgeon at Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS)

Introduction

Recovering from a sports injury is never just about the body—it often involves the heart, mind, and even spirit. For Dr. James Carr, an orthopedic surgeon at the world-renowned Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS), healing isn’t only about surgery or rehab. It’s about faith, connection, and understanding what athletes are going through—because he’s been there himself.

Whether he’s working with a young pitcher, a college athlete, or a professional player from the New York Mets or Miami Marlins, Dr. Carr brings a unique blend of clinical excellence, personal experience, and deep compassion.

From Injury to Purpose

Dr. Carr’s story starts on the baseball field. As a dedicated high school and college athlete, baseball was his entire world. But a devastating shoulder injury and a stress fracture in his foot ended that dream—and put him in a wheelchair for nearly three months.

“I thought my life was over. But that pain helped me discover a new purpose.”

That experience opened his eyes not only to the emotional toll of injury but also to the power of faith. It became the foundation for how he now approaches patient care—with empathy, clarity, and hope.

Excellence in Orthopedic Surgery

Today, Dr. Carr specializes in:

• UCL (Tommy John) Surgery
• ACL Reconstruction
• Shoulder Injuries
• Sports-related joint injuries

He’s known for working with elite athletes but is just as passionate about helping young athletes and weekend warriors. His mission is the same: help each person recover safely, return to what they love, and grow stronger—inside and out.

Smarter, Safer Recovery: A New Era for UCL Rehab

One of Dr. Carr’s biggest contributions to sports medicine is how he’s helping evolve UCL surgery recovery. Traditionally, Tommy John surgery required a 12–18 month recovery. But now, thanks to hybrid reconstruction techniques and internal bracing, some athletes can return to sport in 9–10 months.

“Rehab should be customized. Every athlete is different—and so is their recovery path.”

By closely tracking strength, function, and movement, Dr. Carr and his team safely accelerate recovery for the right athletes—without compromising outcomes.

A Warning for Parents and Coaches: Early Specialization Hurts

Dr. Carr is deeply concerned about the rise of early sports specialization. Kids as young as 10 are focusing on one sport year-round, often leading to burnout, overuse injuries, and emotional stress.

“I’ve seen 13-year-olds who are ‘pitcher-only’ athletes. That’s way too early.”

Instead, he recommends:

• Playing multiple sports
• Taking seasonal breaks
• Building full-body strength and coordination
• Having fun with movement

These steps don’t just protect young bodies—they build more adaptable, successful athletes in the long term.

Treating the Whole Person, Not Just the Problem

What truly sets Dr. Carr apart is how he sees each patient as a whole person, not just a diagnosis.

“I don’t just fix joints. I help people heal—and that starts by listening.”

He works closely with physical therapists, parents, coaches, and even agents to create a 360° recovery plan. He understands the pressure athletes face—because he lived it. And he knows that the best outcomes happen when people feel heard, supported, and hopeful.

Guided by Faith and Service

Dr. Carr’s care philosophy is deeply shaped by his Christian faith. He doesn’t advertise it—but he lives it.

“Healing belongs to God. I’m just here to serve with the hands I’ve been given.”

This mindset helps him offer calm, perspective, and peace to athletes and families facing fear and uncertainty. His goal isn’t just to treat—it’s to inspire resilience.

Legacy, Leadership, and Raising the Next Generation

As a third-generation orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Carr carries on his family’s legacy—but adds his own style: a modern, relational approach that blends science, soul, and service.

At home, he and his wife (a former college athlete and strength coach) are raising three young children. They focus on joy over pressure, and movement over medals.

“If our kids end up in sports, great. If not, we’ll be their loudest fans—whether it’s baseball or the school play.”

Closing Thoughts

Faith and resilience aren’t just words to Dr. James Carr—they’re the foundation of everything he does. His journey reminds us that healing is not just about what’s broken, but about what’s possible when you combine expert care with human connection.

Whether you’re an athlete, a parent, or someone recovering from an injury, Dr. Carr offers more than surgery—he offers perspective, partnership, and purpose.

📞 Book an Appointment with Dr. James Carr

If you’re looking for an orthopedic surgeon who treats the person—not just the injury—reach out to Dr. Carr’s team today.

Contact Jenna Bergquist, Regional Ambassador
📱 Call/Text: 973-420-1494
📧 Email: bergquistj@hss.edu
🔗 View Dr. Carr’s Profile at HSS