Get to Know Dr. Eric Wilkinson: Veteran and Orthopedic Surgeon at DHR Health

In honor of the upcoming Veterans Day holiday, the DHR Health Office of Corporate Communications sat down with Dr. Eric B. Wilkinson, an orthopedic surgeon and proud U.S. Navy veteran, to learn more about his service, his medical journey, and his passion for helping his patients stay active and healthy. Dr. Wilkinson served as a Lieutenant and Naval Flight Surgeon in the United States Navy. Following his internship at the Naval Medical Center San Diego, he provided medical care for Marine Corps recruits at the Marine Corps Recruit Depot in San Diego and completed Flight Surgery training at the Naval Aerospace Medicine Institute in Pensacola, Florida. He was then stationed at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, where he cared for a Marine Corps Osprey squadron and deployed as the Air Combat Element Medical Officer for the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit.

Today, Dr. Wilkinson is part of the DHR Health Orthopedic Institute, the largest orthopedic team in the Rio Grande Valley. He and his colleagues provide comprehensive orthopedic care across a wide range of specialties, including total joint replacement, sports medicine, reconstructive surgery, and fracture care. Dr. Wilkinson specializes in arthroscopic and minimally invasive procedures, helping patients recover faster and return to the activities they love.

Dr. Wilkinson devotes his practice to caring for sports injuries of the shoulder, elbow, knee, and ankle. His office is located at 5540 Rafael Drive in Edinburg.

Q: What is your specialty at the DHR Health Orthopedic Institute?

A: I am an orthopedic surgeon specializing in Orthopedic Sports Medicine. My focus is on preventing, diagnosing, and treating active-lifestyle related injuries of the shoulder, elbow, knee, and ankle. I also enjoy providing sideline and event coverage for athletic events across the Rio Grande Valley. Most recently, I’ve been volunteering at local high school football games to help ensure the safety and wellness of our student athletes. I’ll also be providing sideline coverage for the RGV Vipers basketball team this season.

Q: You have an impressive educational background. Where did you study to become an orthopedic surgeon?

A: I am originally from north Texas and began my academic journey at Texas A&M University, where I earned my Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Science. I then attended Texas A&M University College of Medicine during which I joined the US Navy. Afterward, I was commissioned as a Lieutenant in the U.S. Navy and completed my internship at the Naval Medical Center San Diego. I later served as a Naval Flight Surgeon, caring for Marine Corps recruits and aviators before completing my orthopedic surgery residency at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. I completed my training with a Orthopedic Sports Medicine Fellowship at Houston Methodist in Houston, Texas.

Q: How did your military experience shape your approach to medicine?

A: My time with the US Marines reinforced the importance of discipline, adaptability, and teamwork. As a Flight Surgeon stationed at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, I cared for Marines and aviators both at home and on deployment. Treating active lifestyle injuries in the military inspired me to become a sports surgeon where I can help people stay healthy, strong, and active.

Q: You also completed advanced training in sports medicine. Tell us about that.

A: I completed my Orthopedic Sports Medicine Fellowship at Houston Methodist, where I had the privilege of caring for recreational athletes as well as elite performers from NASA, the Houston Rodeo, Rice University, the Houston Texans, and the World Champion Houston Astros.

Q: What inspired your move to the Rio Grande Valley?

A: My wife, who is also a physician, and I wanted to be closer to family and become part of this vibrant community. My wife practices emergency medicine, and we both are committed to serving the people of the Valley.

Q: What services does the DHR Health Orthopedic Institute offer?

A: The DHR Health Orthopedic Institute provides comprehensive care for the entire musculoskeletal system which range from minor sprains and overuse injuries to chronic and traumatic conditions. Our team specializes in Sports Medicine, Total Joint Arthroplasty, Trauma, Spine, and Hand surgery. Using advanced imaging, specialized surgical techniques, and a network of physical therapy services, we help our patients return to the lifestyles they desire.

Q: How can patients schedule an appointment with you?

A: I am currently accepting new patients at the DHR Health Orthopedic Institute, located at 5540 Rafael Drive in Edinburg. To schedule an appointment, please call (956) 362-6683 (MOVE).

Q: As a veteran yourself, what message would you like to share with other veterans?

A: I am thankful for the courageous, resilient military members who continue to serve in our military. They are standing the watch and are ready for action. Veterans Day is a time to honor those who volunteered to protect our country and the freedoms we all value. I also think it is an important to thank their families who empowered them from the home front, for no soldier fights alone.