Dr. Joshua Thomas is a full-time orthopedic surgeon at Glacial Ridge Health System, combining extensive training with a compassionate heart for healing.
As a child growing up in Waterford, MI, Dr. Joshua Thomas learned valuable life lessons that helped shape him into the empathetic and skilled orthopedic specialist he is today. His childhood was a perfect blend of outdoor activities, strong values, and hard work.
Dr. Thomas is known for his caring, patient-centered approach to orthopedic medicine. He takes time to actively listen, involves patients in their treatment decisions, and prioritizes education so individuals can fully understand their conditions and all available care options. His goal is always to find the right solution for each patient.
Dr. Thomas earned his Master of Biomedical Sciences from Midwestern University in Downers Grove, IL, and his Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) from Michigan State University in East Lansing. He completed his Orthopedic Surgery Residency at McLaren Macomb Hospital in Mount Clemens, MI, followed by a Shoulder Fellowship at Johns Hopkins in Baltimore, MD. During the fellowship, he trained in plastic surgery closure techniques, resulting in less tissue damage, less pain, a quicker recovery, and minimal thin scarring.
Dr. Thomas’ expanded fellowship training and orthopedic residency prepared him to treat a wide range of conditions, including knee and shoulder injuries, rotator cuff repair, and wrist and hand conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome, offering both surgical and non-surgical solutions. Additionally, Dr. Thomas now performs robotic-assisted total knee replacement using advanced technology to guide precise implant placement with no CT scan required before surgery.
In September 2023, Dr. Thomas chose to establish his orthopedic practice in Glenwood, drawn by the supportive medical community at Glacial Ridge Health System. He and his wife also enjoyed the beautiful environment, friendly atmosphere, and small-town vibe with Lake Minnewaska nearby. Dr. Thomas’ goal is to provide the best orthopedic care for our community, helping every patient move better, feel better, and live better.
Outside of work, Dr. Thomas enjoys life with his wife, Crystal, their daughter, and their loyal dog, Pokey. They love to travel, share great meals together, and embrace the outdoors through boating, fishing, snowboarding, ice fishing, and golfing.