Joel Turtle, MD

Joel Turtle, MD

Pediatric Orthopaedic Surgery

Dr. Joel Turtle is a pediatric orthopaedic surgeon at Primary Children’s Hospital with a focus in pediatric spine surgery. With a robust background in both engineering and medicine, Dr. Turtle brings a unique and comprehensive perspective to his practice.

Dr. Turtle began his academic journey at Texas A&M University, where he earned a degree in Mechanical Engineering. This technical foundation provided him with a deep understanding of biomechanics, which is essential in addressing complex spinal conditions. His pursuit of knowledge continued at Texas A&M, where he obtained a PhD in Neuroscience. His research focused on spinal cord injury and the biochemical processes that impair recovery, contributing valuable insights to the field and demonstrating a commitment to advancing medical science.

He completed his residency in orthopedic surgery at the University of Utah, where he developed his surgical skills and grew to love the great state of Utah. Following his residency, Dr. Turtle honed his expertise with a fellowship in pediatric orthopedic surgery at the prestigious Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP). Here, he gained extensive experience in treating a wide range of spinal conditions in children.

Dr. Turtle’s multidisciplinary training and extensive research background make him well-qualified to address the complex needs of pediatric patients with spinal conditions. His approach to care is both compassionate and meticulous, ensuring that each patient receives personalized treatment tailored to their specific needs. Dr. Turtle aims to create a warm and approachable environment which allows for better understanding of what can be complex medical concepts.

In his free time, Dr. Turtle enjoys spending time with his wife, Faryal, a family medicine physician. They enjoy a variety of athletic and outdoor activities, which they often share with their dog, Milo. His love for the outdoors and active lifestyle underscores his belief in the importance of overall well-being, which he brings into his practice by encouraging his patients to lead healthy and active lives.

Dr. Turtle prides himself on being not only a skilled surgeon but also a compassionate and dedicated individual who is committed to improving the lives of his patients. Families can feel confident in the care and expertise he provides, knowing that their children are in capable and caring hands.