Who is the orthopedic surgeon for the Tennessee Titans?

Dr. Damon H. Petty, MD served as Head Orthopedic Team Physician for the Tennessee Titans from 2018 through 2026. He provided orthopedic care for NFL athletes using the same advanced techniques and protocols he offers to all patients at his Nashville practice through TOA.

Do I need a referral to see Dr. Petty?

Most insurance plans do not require a referral to see an orthopedic surgeon. However, some HMO plans may require one. Contact your insurance provider or call our office to confirm.

What should I do if I have been injured and need to see an orthopedic surgeon quickly?

Call our office to request an urgent appointment. Dr. Petty's schedule accommodates acute injuries, and our staff will work to get you evaluated as quickly as possible. Bring any imaging you already have (X-rays, MRI) to your appointment to avoid delays in diagnosis.

What insurance does Dr. Petty accept?

Dr. Petty practices through Tennessee Orthopaedic Alliance (TOA), which accepts most major insurance plans. Contact our office or visit the TOA website for a current list of accepted plans.

Orthopedic Surgeon in Nashville, TN: Dr. Damon H. Petty

Whether you are dealing with a sports injury that has sidelined you or joint pain that makes everyday activities difficult, finding the right orthopedic surgeon matters. The right provider listens carefully, explains your options clearly, and recommends a treatment plan based on what your condition actually needs.

Dr. Damon H. Petty is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon and fellowship-trained sports medicine specialist with over 25 years of experience treating knee, shoulder, elbow, and hip injuries. He has served as Head Orthopedic Team Physician for the Tennessee Titans from 2018 through 2026, is Team Physician for Tennessee State University, and was formerly the Head Orthopedic Surgeon for the Nashville Sounds. Dr. Petty practices through Tennessee Orthopaedic Alliance (TOA) in Nashville.

His approach is simple: listen carefully, make an accurate diagnosis, and design a plan the patient understands. Whether that plan involves physical therapy, regenerative medicine, or surgery, Dr. Petty provides the full spectrum of orthopedic care from a single provider.

SCHEDULE A CONSULTATION WITH DR. PETTY

Orthopedic Conditions We Treat in Nashville

Joint Pain and Arthritis

If you have been living with pain that limits your work, your hobbies, or even your sleep, it is time for an expert evaluation. Dr. Petty treats osteoarthritis and degenerative joint disease in the knee, hip, and shoulder from its early stages through joint replacement when conservative care is no longer enough. Dr. Petty offers state-of-the-art PRP, Stem Cell, and cartilage restoration procedures for those interested in advanced therapies. Arthritis affects millions of adults, and the progression from occasional stiffness to constant pain can happen gradually. Early evaluation by an orthopedic surgeon provides a clear diagnosis and a plan that addresses the condition at the right stage, whether that means physical therapy, injection therapy, or surgical intervention.

Sports Injuries

ACL tears, MCL injuries, meniscus tears, rotator cuff tears, labral tears, and ligament sprains are among the most common conditions Dr. Petty treats. With years of experience for sports teams at all levels, he brings NFL-level diagnostic precision and surgical skill to every patient. Whether you are a high school athlete trying to finish a season, a weekend runner dealing with a nagging knee, or a competitive player facing a career-limiting injury, Dr. Petty designs a treatment plan around your specific goals and timeline.

Back and Spine

Chronic back pain, disc injuries, and spinal conditions that affect mobility and quality of life. Dr. Petty evaluates the full picture and refers to spine specialists when surgical intervention is indicated.

Fractures and Trauma

Acute fractures of the knee, hip, shoulder, and elbow require prompt, expert evaluation. Dr. Petty provides both non-operative management with casting or bracing and surgical fixation with plates, screws, or intramedullary nails depending on the location and severity of the fracture. Timely treatment of fractures is critical to prevent complications and ensure proper healing. If physical therapy alone has not worked, or cortisone shots have stopped helping, an appointment with an orthopedic surgeon is the logical next step.

SCHEDULE A CONSULTATION WITH DR. PETTY

Orthopedic Surgery and Joint Replacement

Knee Surgery and Knee Replacement

From arthroscopic procedures for meniscus tears and cartilage damage to partial and total knee replacement for advanced arthritis, Dr. Petty offers the full range of knee surgery using minimally invasive techniques. Knee replacement surgery restores function and relieves pain when the joint has deteriorated beyond what conservative treatment can address. Minimally invasive approaches mean smaller incisions, less tissue disruption, and a faster return to daily activities. Most knee replacement patients are walking with assistance within 24 hours of surgery and return to light daily activities within 2 to 4 weeks.

Hip Replacement and Hip Arthroscopy

Hip arthroscopy for labral tears and femoroacetabular impingement, and total hip replacement for patients with advanced arthritis or hip fractures. Dr. Petty uses minimally invasive approaches that preserve muscle and soft tissue, allowing faster recovery, less post-operative pain, and smaller incisions. Hip arthroscopy is an outpatient procedure that can address structural problems in the hip joint before they progress to arthritis requiring replacement.

Shoulder Surgery and Shoulder Replacement

Rotator cuff repair, labral repair for pain and instability, and shoulder replacement for severe arthritis or complex fractures. Dr. Petty's advanced training in arthroscopic techniques allows most shoulder procedures to be performed with minimal tissue disruption, meaning less pain and faster recovery compared to open surgery. For patients with end-stage shoulder arthritis or irreparable rotator cuff tears, total or reverse shoulder replacement restores function and relieves chronic pain. Dr. Petty evaluates each patient's anatomy, activity level, and goals before recommending a surgical approach.

Regenerative Medicine: PRP and Stem Cell Therapy

Not every orthopedic condition requires surgery. Dr. Petty offers evidence-based regenerative treatments including platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections and bone marrow aspirate concentrate (BMAC) stem cell therapy for patients with early to moderate joint damage, tendon injuries, and cartilage loss. These treatments are standard in professional sports medicine and are performed by Dr. Petty personally under ultrasound guidance for precision.

Regenerative medicine can serve as a first step before surgery or as a standalone treatment for patients who want to delay or avoid surgical intervention. For patients whose conditions are too advanced for regenerative care, Dr. Petty provides the surgical expertise to address the problem, all from the same provider.

Why Patients Choose Dr. Petty

Credentials and Training

Dr. Petty graduated from Harvard University (BA with honors) and the University of Virginia School of Medicine. He completed his orthopedic residency at the Cleveland Clinic, one of the top-ranked orthopedic programs in the country, and a highly selective sports medicine fellowship under Drs. James Andrews and William Clancy in Birmingham, Alabama. Dr. Andrews is widely considered the most prominent sports medicine surgeon in the world, and Dr. Petty trained directly under his mentorship.

Dr. Petty has two board certifications, in Orthopedic Surgery and in Sports Medicine, and is a member of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) and the American Orthopedic Society for Sports Medicine (AOSSM). He was inducted into Alpha Omega Alpha, the national medical honor society, and received the Sports Medicine Person of the Year award in 2005. He has published research in the American Journal of Sports Medicine on elbow and shoulder injuries in throwing athletes.

Team Physician for the Tennessee Titans

Dr. Petty served as Head Orthopedic Team Physician for the Tennessee Titans from 2018 through 2026. He also serves as Team Physician for Tennessee State University and has provided sports medicine care for the Nashville Sounds, Nashville Metros Soccer, Cumberland University, Trevecca Nazarene University, the Tennessee Diamonds Fastpitch Softball team, and numerous area high schools.

Patient Reviews

"Dr. Petty replaced my shoulder (partial) and hip. Fixed me up so I could return to nearly 100% capable of doing basic life needs and more. He was a blessing to me."

- Healthgrades

"Dr. Petty paid attention. He listened to me, the nature of my injury, and my ultimate goals and with his obvious expertise helped me develop a plan. Couldn't be happier with the experience."

- Healthgrades

"I've been a patient for years. I know the medical field and have had reason to refer patients to nearly every orthopedic surgeon in Middle TN. Dr. Petty is always my first choice."

- Healthgrades

"I came in for a 2nd Opinion on a Shoulder problem. He spent a long time with me answering all questions. I live out of State but definitely will have him do the surgery."

- Vitals

Our Nashville Clinic:
Location and Scheduling

Dr. Petty sees patients through Tennessee Orthopaedic Alliance (TOA) at 8 City Blvd, Nashville, TN 37209 (ONEC1TY). Phone: (615) 329-6600. Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Schedule online here.

We serve patients from Nashville, Brentwood, Franklin, Murfreesboro, Hendersonville, Gallatin, Lebanon, and communities throughout Middle Tennessee. Dr. Petty also sees patients who travel for world-class care, some from over 500 miles away, including recent patients from Kansas City, drawn by his specific expertise and reputation.

What to Expect at Your First Consultation

Many patients feel uncertain about what happens during their first consultation with an orthopedic surgeon. Some worry they will be told they need surgery immediately. At Dr. Petty's practice, the first consultation is about understanding your condition and exploring all available options. His motto: "Always do what in your heart is best for your patient."

1.

Evaluation

Dr. Petty listens to your history, examines the affected area, and reviews any imaging you bring. He asks about your activity level, your goals, and what treatments you have already tried.

2.

Imaging

If additional X-rays or MRI are needed, they are ordered during the visit or scheduled promptly. Having accurate imaging is essential for an accurate diagnosis.

3.

Diagnosis

You receive a clear, plain-language explanation of what is causing your pain and how it is likely to progress without treatment.

4.

Treatment plan

Dr. Petty presents all options, from conservative care and physical therapy to regenerative medicine and surgery, explains the benefits and risks of each, and answers your questions until you understand the path forward.

5.

Follow-up

Progress checks, imaging reviews, and treatment adjustments as needed throughout your recovery. You are never left wondering what comes next.

Frequently Asked Questions

Most patients return to light daily activities within a few days to a few weeks after knee replacement surgery. Patients can put full weight on their joint the first day. Physical therapy begins within days of the procedure to restore range of motion and rebuild strength. Full recovery with a return to more demanding activities like golf, hiking, or doubles tennis typically takes 3 to 6 months, depending on the procedure and individual healing. Dr. Petty uses minimally invasive techniques that reduce recovery time compared to traditional approaches.

Yes. Dr. Petty provides the full spectrum of orthopedic care, including physical therapy referrals, cortisone injections, PRP therapy, and stem cell treatment (BMAC). Surgery is recommended only when conservative and regenerative options are unlikely to achieve the patient's goals. Many conditions that patients assume require surgery can be effectively managed with the right combination of non-operative treatment.

Orthopedic Surgeon in Nashville, TN: Dr. Damon H. Petty