I got the chance to meet and sit down with Dr. Riley Williams: Head Team Physician for the Brooklyn Nets & NY Liberty
Dr. Riley Williams is more than an orthopedic surgeon — he’s a leading force behind sports medicine at the Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) and the trusted doctor for elite teams like the Brooklyn Nets, New York Liberty, and Red Bull. In one of our episodes of the Myokinetic Podcast, we explored his journey from a humble upbringing to Ivy League training, and how he’s revolutionizing patient care today.
Dr. Williams grew up in a low-income household and was the first doctor in his family. He credits his academic grind — from Loyola High School in Los Angeles to Yale and then Stanford Medical School — as formative and, as he put it, “totally unpleasant.” His internal drive, not external pressure, pushed him to succeed.
“Failure wasn’t an option. It was more than getting through — it was about doing well enough to have choices.” – Dr. Riley Williams
As a former athlete and lifelong learner, Dr. Williams brings a patient-first, science-driven mindset to everything he does. He’s honest, humble, and deeply curious.His unique “permissive” approach to rehab — especially in ACL surgery — has cut recovery time dramatically. Think: no bracing, fast restoration of gait, and early use of BFR (Blood Flow Restriction) therapy.
“The PT floor is a competition. If someone’s ahead, others push harder. That energy fuels recovery.”
Here’s Why Dr. Williams’ Approach to ACL Recovery Stands Out
- No-brace recovery: Eliminating unnecessary immobilization that leads to stiffness.
- Immediate motion + early BFR: Restores quad control and confidence faster.
- Shift from “training patients” to “guiding athletes”: Once they look like athletes, treat them like athletes.
- Focus on psychology: Reducing fear, building trust, and accelerating return to sport.
“I don’t call my approach aggressive — it’s permissive. If your body allows it, you progress.”
Unlike many high-volume surgeons, Dr. Williams doesn’t rush the patient experience. No handoff to a video. No pressure tactics. Just a clear plan and informed decision-making. “Every patient’s a first-timer. I might see 8 ACLs in a day — but for them, it’s their one ACL.”
Dr. Williams is passionate about bridging the gap between medicine and performance. That’s why his patients return not just to “normal” — but to the highest level of play. And as a physical therapist, that’s exactly what we strive for too: not just recovery, but transformation.
What’s next? You may ask, Dr. Williams envisions a future of less bracing, faster graft maturation, and more performance-driven rehab. Think cutting-edge tools like ePADs, biological implants, and a stronger focus on mental resilience.
“Movement is longevity. Whether you’re 17 or 70 — everyone wants the same thing: to keep going.”
Final Takeaway: Be Curious, Be Humble, and Keep Moving
At nearly 60 years old and still treating some of the most elite athletes on the planet, Dr. Williams remains a student of his craft. His biggest reward? A meaningful legacy — not just in surgery, but in the lives he’s changed.
Check out more of his story in one of our episode of The Myokinetix Podcast
How Myokinetix Can Help You
If you’re an athlete rehabbing from surgery, a parent navigating the return-to-play process, or simply someone looking to move better — this episode is your blueprint. Learn from the best. Heal like the pros.
For athletes and parents looking to help their young athletes stay strong and injury-free, Myokinetix is here to support you. We specialize in performance training, injury prevention, and rehab to keep you at the top of your game.
Whether you’re rehabbing an old injury or looking to take your performance to the next level, our expert team is ready to help.
Optimize your training and recovery now! Book a call with us and let’s get you performing at your peak!