Laura Dunne, MD

How did you become interested in medicine?

I always enjoyed science and people so it was a natural fit.

When did you decide to specialize in sports medicine?

While in medical school I enjoyed reading and studying all the sports medicine literature and always was an athlete so it was an interest of mine early on I suppose.

What are common conditions you treat? Is there anything patients can do to avoid developing their conditions?

I treat everything from head to toe – so patella-femoral syndrome to ankle sprains, toe fractures to shoulder pains. Most conditions are less likely if you maintain good core strength and balance and avoid overuse.

What do you like best about working with your patients?

I love to help teach people about their injuries and what to do to recover and avoid re-injury. Getting athletes safely back to play is the best reward.

What do you like best about working for OAA?

I enjoy the freedom of practice and the great support with other well trained/experienced docs. Being able to see all kinds of injury and knowing I have smart, caring support in my surgeons and therapists, trainers and staff.

Where are you from, originally, and how did you come to live in the Lehigh Valley?

Born in Cleveland, OH I went to med school in St. Louis and came to the Lehigh Valley for the position at OAA.

If you were not a sports medicine physician, what would you be doing?

Family medicine or preventative medicine. Still trying to help people get and stay healthy.

How do you apply your experience as a physician to the rest of your life?

As a sports doc you see the world in a different focus. My doctoring allows me to see the mechanics of people’s actions better.

Of what achievements are you especially proud?

Being a team doctor for USA Hockey has been a huge honor. There is nothing like hearing the national anthem played with USA on your coat or jersey! Also, being able to help keep our Lehigh Valley IronPigs healthy and in tip-top form.