Rick LehmanMD, FACS

Name: Aesthetx
Rating: 4.9

Dr. Rick Lehman is a globally recognized orthopedic surgeon, acclaimed for his work in regenerative medicine and joint preservation. Known for treating Olympic athletes, NHL stars, and elite performers across sports and disciplines, he has built a career focused on optimizing joint function for long-term performance. His expertise in biologics, minimally invasive procedures, and advanced surgical techniques has helped countless patients avoid joint replacement and stay active—no matter their age or activity level.

Los Gatos

Menlo Park

Marin

Philosophy of Care: Innovation Rooted in Performance

Dr. Lehman’s treatment philosophy centers on individualized care that blends cutting-edge science with real-world outcomes. Whether a patient is a high-performance athlete or an active individual looking to avoid surgery, his goal is to preserve joint integrity and optimize movement using the most advanced, effective solutions available.

"My goal is to help every patient—from world-class athletes to active individuals—achieve the highest level of joint function possible through personalized, cutting-edge care."

Academic Background and Elite Medical Training

Dr. Lehman’s extensive academic training set the foundation for his success as a leader in orthopedic and sports medicine:

- Undergraduate Education: University of Minnesota
- Medical Degree (M.D.): University of Miami School of Medicine
- Orthopedic Surgery Residency: Washington University in St. Louis
- Sports Medicine Fellowship: University of Pennsylvania

Doctor looking at x-ray results on digital tablet at a patient´s residence

Pioneer in the World of Regenerative Orthopedics

As a medical innovator, Dr. Lehman has advanced the field of joint preservation through groundbreaking work in biologic therapy and cartilage restoration. He pioneered a two-stage articular cartilage graft procedure and collaborated with Biomet to develop new techniques that support natural joint regeneration. His clinical focus is on delaying or preventing joint replacement through stem cell treatments, PRP, and other biologic modalities that promote healing from within.

Experience with Professional & Olympic Athletes

Throughout his distinguished career, Dr. Rick Lehman has served as a trusted orthopedic surgeon to some of the world’s most elite athletes. He has held team physician roles for several NHL franchises, including the St. Louis Blues, Florida Panthers, and Tampa Bay Lightning—offering expert musculoskeletal care in the high-pressure world of professional hockey. As a Sports Medicine Consultant to Olympic Track & Field teams, Dr. Lehman provided specialized treatment and recovery strategies to some of the most finely tuned athletes on the planet. His work extended to four Olympic Games, where he delivered hands-on orthopedic care at the highest level of global competition. From collegiate stars to Olympic medalists and pro athletes, Dr. Lehman is renowned for his ability to manage high-performance injuries and deliver outcomes that support rapid, sustained recovery. His extensive experience has equipped him with a deep understanding of how to protect, repair, and elevate the musculoskeletal systems of those who depend on peak physical function.

Awards & Recognitions

- Inductee, Missouri Sports Hall of Fame
- Inductee, St. Louis Sports Hall of Fame
- Medical Director, U.S. Center for Sports Medicine
- Frequently featured on national media outlets as a thought leader in orthopedic innovation

Professional Memberships

- American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons (AAOS)
- American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine (AOSSM)
- Arthroscopy Association of North America (AANA)

Areas of Expertise

- Joint Preservation & Longevity
- Arthroscopic Surgery
- Cartilage Restoration
- Biologic Therapies (e.g., PRP, stem cells)
- Sports Injury Treatment
- Performance Optimization
- Non-Surgical Orthopedic Interventions

Dr. Lehman got me back to training pain-free faster than I imagined. His expertise and care truly changed my life!