Rafael A. Sanchez, MD, FAAOS

Rafael A. Sanchez, MD, FAAOSFellowship-Trained & Board-Certified Orthopedic Surgeon
Sports Medicine Specialist

Dr. Rafael A. Sanchez is a fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon dedicated to helping patients overcome injuries, relieve pain, and return to the activities they enjoy most. As a specialist in sports medicine, shoulder surgery, and minimally invasive arthroscopic procedures, Dr. Sanchez provides comprehensive orthopedic care for athletes, active individuals, and patients seeking advanced treatment for musculoskeletal conditions.

With a patient-centered approach and a commitment to evidence-based medicine, Dr. Sanchez works closely with each individual to develop personalized treatment plans designed to restore function, improve mobility, and achieve lasting results.

Expertise in Arthroscopic & Minimally Invasive Surgery

When surgery is necessary, Dr. Sanchez utilizes advanced arthroscopic and minimally invasive techniques designed to minimize tissue disruption, reduce recovery times, and improve patient outcomes. His surgical expertise includes shoulder arthroscopy, knee arthroscopy, rotator cuff repair, shoulder stabilization procedures, and shoulder replacement surgery.

By combining modern surgical technology with proven orthopedic techniques, Dr. Sanchez strives to help patients regain strength, restore mobility, and return to their normal activities with confidence.

A Background Rooted in Excellence

Dr. Sanchez earned his medical degree from Georgetown University School of Medicine before completing his orthopedic surgery residency at Jackson Memorial Hospital and the University of Miami. During his residency training, he cared for athletes from some of South Florida's most recognized sports programs, gaining valuable experience in the evaluation and treatment of complex sports-related injuries.

He subsequently completed advanced fellowship training in Sports Medicine and Shoulder Surgery, further refining his expertise in the management of athletic injuries and complex shoulder conditions.

A Personalized Approach to Orthopedic Care

Dr. Sanchez believes that successful orthopedic treatment begins with understanding the unique needs of each patient. He takes the time to educate patients about their diagnosis, discuss available treatment options, and develop a care plan tailored to their goals.

His philosophy centers on shared decision-making, ensuring that patients are actively involved in every step of their treatment journey. Whether recommending physical therapy, regenerative treatments, injections, or surgery, Dr. Sanchez is committed to providing honest guidance and compassionate care.

Helping Patients Return to Active Living

From competitive athletes and weekend warriors to individuals seeking relief from everyday joint pain, Dr. Sanchez is dedicated to helping patients return to active, healthy lifestyles. His goal is not only to treat injuries but also to empower patients with the knowledge and care they need to achieve long-term orthopedic health.

At OrthoMiami, Dr. Sanchez proudly serves patients throughout Miami, Doral, and surrounding South Florida communities, providing advanced orthopedic and sports medicine care with a focus on exceptional outcomes and personalized attention.

Education

Georgetown University School of Medicine
Doctor of Medicine (MD)
Washington, D.C.
August 2013 – May 2017
Kenyon College
Bachelor of Arts in Biology
Gambier, Ohio
August 2004 – May 2008

Postgraduate Education and Training

Orthopaedic Surgery Residency
University of Miami / Jackson Memorial Hospital, Miami, Florida
June 2017 – July 2022
Orthopaedic Sports Medicine & Shoulder Surgery Fellowship
Plancher Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine, New York, New York
August 2022 – July 2023

Professional Experience

Orthopedic Surgeon
OrthoMiami, Doral and Kendall, Miami, Florida
September 2023 – Present
Fellowship-trained subspecialist in sports medicine and shoulder surgery
Hospital Affiliations:
Kendall Regional Medical Center
Mercy Hospital
Hialeah Hospital
Miami Surgical Center
Baptist Doctor's Hospital

Honors and Awards

Fellow, American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (FAAOS)
Arnold P. Gold Foundation Gold Humanism Honor Society (2016)

Peer-Reviewed Publications

Sanchez R, Sethi P, Williams S. Anterior Cable Reconstruction Using Autologous Long Head of the Biceps Tendon for Massive Irreparable Rotator Cuff Tears. Journal of Orthopaedic Experience & Innovation. 2023;4(2). DOI: 10.60118/001c.74713
Stokes DJ, Sanchez RA, Williams BT, Strassman AK, Shinsako KK, DiFelice GS, Frank RM. Tibial Spine Avulsion Fracture Fixation Using a Re-tensionable All-Suture Construct. Arthroscopy Techniques. 2024 Apr 4;13(7):102983. DOI: 10.1016/j.eats.2024.102983. PMID: 39100271; PMCID: PMC11293331.
Sanchez R, Hodgens BH, Geller JS, Huntley S, Kaplan J, Aiyer A. Effect of Achilles Tendon Repair on Performance Outcomes After Return to Play in National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I Basketball Athletes. Orthopaedic Journal of Sports Medicine. 2021;9(6):23259671211015239. Published June 29, 2021.
Lavin AC, Mansour KL, Greif DN, Shallop BJ, Allegra PR, Sanchez RA, Munoz J, Baraga MG. Rehabilitation Protocols for Superior Capsular Reconstruction Are Variable: A Systematic Review. Arthroscopic Sports Medicine Rehabilitation. 2021;3(3):e919-e926. Published March 22, 2021.
Kaiser J, Lugo-Pico J, Sanchez R, Aiyer A. Peroneal Tendinosis and Subluxation. Clinical Sports Medicine. September 2020; Vol. 39, pp. 845–858.
Allegra PR, Sanchez R, Huntley S, Latta L, Desai S, Kaplan J, Aiyer A. Diagnosis of Traumatic Ankle Arthrotomies Using Saline Load Tests, Methylene Blue, and Radiopaque Tracer: A Cadaveric Study. Foot and Ankle Orthopaedics. March 2020; Vol. 5(1), pp. 1–6.
Bodendorfer BM, Kotler JA, Zelenty WD, Termanini K, Sanchez R, Argintar EH. Outcomes and Predictors of Success for Arthroscopic Lysis of Adhesions for the Stiff Total Knee Arthroplasty. Orthopedics. November 2017;40(6):e1062–e1068.

Presentations

Case Presentation: Arthroscopic Distal Tibia Allograft Glenoid Reconstruction for Recurrent Anterior Shoulder Instability - Orthopaedic Summit: Evolving Techniques, Boston, Massachusetts - September 2022
Reverse Shoulder Arthroplasty in Younger Populations: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis - E-poster, Western Orthopaedic Association Annual Meeting - August 2020

Professional Organizations