Dr. Arthur F. Christiano, a Massachusetts native, began private practice in 2003 and joined the Orthopedics New England team in 2008.
Why did you go into medicine and pick orthopedics?
Really, I chose orthopedics by chance. During medical school, I stopped by my parent’s house while traveling to a friend’s wedding in Maine. I told them I was considering cardiology. My mother had recently read an article about orthopedic sports medicine and suggested I look into that specialty since I loved sports. As a former high school and college athlete, orthopedics was a great fit for me. The procedures are interesting and the patients are motivated to get better.
Tell me about a mentor who made a significant impact on you?
I would consider my grandfather my informal mentor. My grandfather, Arthur FitzGerald, passed away several months before I was born. He was a family practice doctor in Worcester, MA and he had a busy practice. I grew up hearing stories about him. Even years after his death, grateful patients would tell me stories about my grandfather and how he had helped them. These experiences encouraged me to become a doctor.
What type of case are you most passionate about?
If I had to pick, I would say arthroscopic rotator cuff repairs.
How do you juggle working, family, and your personal life?
Like many people, it is hard to balance working and family life. I have two small children, a six year old daughter and a three year old son, and helping to raise them is a full time job. Both of them are active and love sports. As they grow bigger, I have been able to introduce them to sports like golf, basketball, and skiing.