Brian Foster, MDOrthopedic Surgeon
My interest in medicine began at an early age when my dad, a busy general surgeon, took me to work with him while making weekend rounds and on call. I loved everything about the hospital: from the hustle and bustle of a level one trauma center, to how my dad put people at ease with his unparalleled bedside manner. I even looked forward to the cafeteria food! Just as influential was what I saw outside of the hospital: appreciative patients thanking my dad for helping them through times when they were sick or injured and most vulnerable. Even as a child, I knew I wanted to make this same difference in peoples’ lives.
Growing up in Michigan, I enjoyed going to college at University of Richmond in Virigina, where I got to experience a little better weather. I couldn't deny my Midwest roots and came back for medical school at Wayne State University in Detroit. After graduation, I got married and completed orthopaedic surgery residency at Loyola University Medical Center in Chicago. During residency I gravitated to hand surgery, and going on a mission trip with Dr. Terry Light helped seal the deal. I completed hand surgery fellowship at Brigham and Women's Hospital/Children's Hospital of Boston. After graduating fellowship in 2012 I joined Rockford Orthopaedic Associates (now OrthoIllinois) in Rockford, IL, and have been there since. I have enjoyed helping to build our practice in Rockford, Algonquin, and Elgin, while also staying connected with orthopeadic surgery colleagues in Chicago. I have been working with the Illinois Association of Orthopaedic Surgeons since 2023. When not working, I enjoy traveling with family/friends, trying to keep up with my accomplished wife and daughter, and working out when I can.