QC orthopedic surgeon Dr. Steven Boardman operates in a tent during his deployment in Iraq with the USAF.

Dr. Steven Boardman, ORA Orthopedics, shares the story of his military service, his love of airplanes, and the joys of practicing medicine in the Quad Cities.

Meet ORA Orthopedics Surgeon: Dr. Steven Boardman

Hometown: Burlington, IA

Years in Practice: 15

Specialty: Shoulder Surgery

Branch of Military Service: United States Air Force

Why did you decide to join the Air Force?

I decided to join the Air Force because it was an opportunity to serve our country. I also received a Health Professions Scholarship from the Air Force for serving them, which helped with my medical school bills.

I went into active duty after my orthopedic residency at Henry Ford Hospital, Detroit.

I served as an orthopedic surgeon at Luke Air Force Base, which is an F-16 fighter pilot training base in Phoenix, Arizona.

Are there any memorable moments in the USAF that have remained with you?

When I was deployed to Iraq in 2004, I learned a lot about medical care in a deployed environment.  Operating in a tent was a real highlight.

I also performed surgery on some important Iraqi officials. In exchange for doing so, our Special Forces guys received special information that helped in the capture of 1 or 2 of the deck-of-cards officials during the Iraqi engagement.

How did your service change you as a young man?

Serving in the military did give me a greater respect for our country, and also a greater respect for the men and women throughout the years who have laid down their lives paying for our freedoms.

It also gave me a greater respect for the important role that the United States plays in the world theater.

Our country does great good all around the world in assisting the stability of different governments and different groups of people, even when it is unpopular to do so at home.

When did you begin your practice in the Quad Cities?

I began practicing as an orthopedic surgeon at ORA Orthopedics in 2005, after my military commitment was complete. 

We understand you still have a love for flying?

Dr. Boardman consults a map with daughter, Kara, who is learning to fly.

I am a private pilot with instrument rating and multi-engine rating. I do enjoy flying small aircraft for fun, pleasure, recreation, and also for small trips with my family.

What made you decide to choose to be an orthopedic surgeon?

I chose to go into orthopedics during medical school, secondary to my fascination with the type of practice.

I enjoy the surgical theater and enjoy working to improve people’s quality of life.

Orthopedic surgery is very satisfying in that you do have tools, both nonsurgical and surgical, to help people with their daily pain and improve their function and quality of life.

What inspires you most about your patients?

My patients do inspire me.

The relationship that I build with them throughout their care is very rewarding.

I get a great sense of value and appreciation when I can participate in people’s medical care and improve their quality of life.

What piece of advice do you wish your patients would take to heart?

I would encourage each patient to continue remaining active and do their best to maintain their physical health, mental health, and spiritual health with proper discipline, moderate exercise, and appreciation for the blessings that we all have.