David Flanigan, MD
Physician, Professor
Orthopaedic Surgery & Sports Medicine
Conditions and expertise
- Surgical Specialties
- Menisci, Tibial
- Arthroscopy
- Leg Injuries
- Orthopedics
- Athletic Injuries
Locations
- Jameson Crane Sports Medicine Institute
Academic information
Department: Orthopaedics
About
- Gender
- Male
Biography
I am an orthopaedic surgeon, fellowship-trained and certified in sports medicine. I specialize in sports-related injuries. More specifically, my practice is primarily focused on the lower extremity injuries and knee injuries (anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries, reconstructions and revisions, meniscal injuries, repair and transplantation, multi-ligament injuries, cartilage injuries and restorative procedures, patella instability corrective surgeries, and ligament and tendon tears).
Dealing with knee and sports-related injuries can range from simple to complex. I believe in involving patients with their care, exploring all options to improve their health and returning them to the best condition possible.
I love my job because The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center has allowed me to blend my passion for clinical care, research and education all together. Because of this, I believe patients are receiving the best, most up-to-date care in the United States.
Highlights
- Rated in the top 10 percent of physicians in the nation for patient satisfaction, 2018, 2019
- Director of Cartilage Restoration Program
- Ohio State Department of Athletics Team Physician
- Richard O'Connor Award recipient
- Best Doctor in America 2017
- Named to Castle Connolly's Regional Top Doctors list
Conditions and expertise
- Arthroscopy
- Athletic Injuries
- Foot Injuries
- Knee Injuries
- Leg Injuries
- Menisci, Tibial
- Orthopedics
- Sports Medicine
- Surgical Specialties
Locations
Please note: Not all physicians schedule patients at each listed location.
Credentials
Education
- Fellowship - Orthopaedic Surgery, Sports Medicine
- University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics, Madison, WI
8/1/2003 - 7/30/2004 - Residency - Orthopaedic Surgery
- Northwestern University Medical School, Chicago, IL, United States
6/27/1999 - 6/20/2003 - Internship - Surgery (General Surgery)
- Northwestern University Medical School, Chicago, IL, United States
6/17/1998 - 6/25/1999 - Doctor of Medicine (MD)
- University of Iowa School of Medicine, Iowa City, IA, United States
8/1/1994 - 5/30/1998
Certifications
-
American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery/Sports Medicine
11/4/2010 -
American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery
7/13/2007
News and media
My news coverage
- Clinical trial shows implantable shock absorber relieves knee pain, delays knee replacement
- MedTips: Awards and Announcements
- OSU Wexner Medical Center First in U.S. to Implant Device for Knee Osteoarthritis
- OSU Wexner Medical Center Study Finds BMI Does Not Impact Knee Repair
- February MedTips: Awards and Announcements
Ratings and reviews
The overall patient satisfaction rating is an average of all patient responses to the six doctor communication related questions shown below from the Clinician and Group Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems survey. For additional information about the patient satisfaction survey, please visit our Patient Satisfaction Survey page.
The comments are submitted by patients and reflect their view and opinions. The comments are not endorsed by and do not necessarily reflect the views of Ohio State Wexner Medical Center.
86 Patient Satisfaction Reviews
Patient Comments
Consulting and related relationships
At The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, we support a faculty member’s research and consulting in collaboration with medical device, research and/or drug companies because a faculty member’s expertise can guide important advancements in the practice of medicine and improve patient care. In order to provide effective management of these relationships, the University requires annual disclosures from all faculty members with external interests related to their University responsibilities.
As of 11/3/2025 David Flanigan has reported relationships with the companies or entities listed below. If you have questions about the relationships listed below, please ask the faculty member. If you have questions about how these relationships are monitored by The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, please contact our Compliance Office.
- Anika Therapeutics
- Atreon Orthopedics LLC
- CONMED
- Hyalex Orthopaedics
- Johnson & Johnson
- Medipost
- Moximed
- Ocugen
- Phoenix Kinetics
- Smith & Nephew
- Vericel
When I chose OSU for my medical care, I expect the best. Dr Flanagan delivers. He is the best meniscus surgeon in all of central Ohio. He is also kind and empathic.
Very knowledgeable about my situation
Dr Flanagan IS GREAT. Explains things well and reviews the implications of the decisions he and I make about the treatment approach to my condition. He met me where I am, I am a realist and very direct. Dr Flanagan adjusted to my approach and was very clear and frank around what I can expect. Extremely happy with his care.
Dr Flanigan is late to every single one of my appointments. So late that even though I gave myself an hour buffer time, I was late to work. My appointment was 9 am and I wasn't seen until 10:17am. It's unprofessional, frustrating, and makes me feel unvalued as a patient. I drive from Cleveland to see him and it's very upsetting to do my best to be there on time but not be shown the same courtesy
The whole experience was good
He has been the best! He has cared for my wife and both of her knees.
Answered all my concerns about upcoming surgery.
The provider was able to give me good information about possible care for my knee problems.
Dr. Flanigan found something on my MRI that my previous 2 surgeons did not find. He took alot of time with me asking questions & explaining his recommendations. Great bedside manner!
He was very personable
Dr. Flanigan is always kind and thorough and really cares about his patients
My provider had to perform a small and unexpected procedure on my knee. This went very well, he is so skilled and knowledgeable.
Dr Flanigan is a great surgeon and also always takes the time to answer my questions and explain things clearly and patiently.
Seemed very nice and knowledgeable about knees
He is an amazing surgeon
Great experience! Explained things in an understandable way. Walked me through options and listened to me.
I have a complex medical history with my knee, including septic arthritis and 5 surgeries in the past few months. He listened to everything and gave his opinion about prognosis and next steps in a confident (but not arrogant) way. He was easy to talk to and made me feel valued as a patient. He also gave me hope for the future function of my knee.
Dr. Flannigan and the resident physician were really optimistic about my condition despite their findings, which helped me not have to worry as much. I left the office not as stressed. I appreciated his referral to the MRI and taking my concerns seriously.
He is the best and I would recommend him to anyone
It was great