Darren Johnson, MD, stands as a nationally acclaimed physician in the specialized realm of sports medicine, renowned particularly for his expertise in complex knee surgeries. For over 25 years, Doctor Johnson has dedicated his career to providing exceptional orthopaedic care to patients at UK HealthCare. His profound commitment and extensive experience have solidified his reputation as a leading figure in the field.
Doctor Johnson‘s academic journey began with a Bachelor’s degree from a combined program at the University of California, Riverside, and the University of California, Los Angeles, focusing on biomedical sciences. He furthered his medical education by obtaining his medical degree from UCLA. His pursuit of surgical excellence led him to an orthopaedic residency at the University of Southern California, followed by a prestigious fellowship in sports medicine and shoulder surgery at the University of Pittsburgh under the mentorship of the esteemed Dr. Freddie H. Fu. This rigorous training has equipped Doctor Johnson with unparalleled skills and knowledge in his specialty.
Joining the UK faculty in 1993 marked the beginning of Doctor Johnson‘s impactful tenure at the University of Kentucky. He demonstrated exceptional leadership as the chair of UK Orthopaedic Surgery & Sports Medicine from 2000 to 2018, guiding and shaping the department’s growth and direction. Beyond his professorial role, Doctor Johnson also serves as the head orthopaedic surgeon for UK Athletics, providing crucial medical support to university athletes. His dual role highlights his commitment to both academic excellence and practical application in sports medicine.
A significant area of focus for Doctor Johnson is the prevention and treatment of Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) injuries, prevalent in athletes across various sports. His dedication to advancing the field extends to educating fellow surgeons. As a sought-after guest speaker, Doctor Johnson frequently shares his insights and surgical techniques at national and international meetings, contributing to the global advancement of knowledge in knee injury management.
Doctor Johnson‘s influence within the orthopaedic community is further evidenced by his service on the board of directors for prominent organizations such as the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons and the American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine. He also held the esteemed position of president of the Southern Orthopedic Association, reflecting his leadership and peer recognition.
His scholarly contributions are substantial, with over 100 peer-reviewed manuscripts and more than 30 book chapters to his name. Doctor Johnson has also edited two influential textbooks, “Clinical Sports Medicine” and “Reconstructive Knee Surgery,” which are valuable resources for medical professionals in the field.
Outside of his demanding medical career, Doctor Johnson enjoys a balanced life with interests in outdoor activities, including fly fishing, hunting, skiing, and golf. He cherishes time spent with his wife, Nancy, and their three children, highlighting the importance of family in his life.
In his personal statement, Doctor Johnson articulates his deep passion for sports medicine: “In sports medicine we see a lot of high school and college kids who have an injury, and for the patient, it’s like the end of the world… When that player goes back on the field and back to doing what they love to do, you can’t beat it. This is not a job to me. This is my calling.” This statement encapsulates Doctor Johnson’s dedication and the profound impact he has on his patients’ lives, making him an exceptional “doctor johnson” in their eyes.
Faculty Rank: Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery.
Awards & Recognitions:
- Best Doctors in America: Recognized by Best Doctors, Inc., a distinction awarded to only approximately 5 percent of physicians nationally, based on peer review, highlighting his expertise in diagnosing and treating serious conditions.
- 16 Standout North American Sports Knee Surgeons: In 2016, Orthopedics This Week acknowledged Doctor Johnson as one of the top knee surgeons in North America, further solidifying his position as a leading expert in the field.
