Dr. Paul Rothenberg, MD, is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in the treatment of sports-related injuries to the shoulder, knee and elbow. A New Jersey native, Dr. Rothenberg is the Director of Sports Medicine and Shoulder Surgery at Optum Orthopedic Institute, where he is dedicated to helping patients—from professional athletes to active individuals—recover, perform, and thrive.

With expertise in minimally invasive arthroscopic surgery, cartilage restoration and preservation, and shoulder replacement, Dr. Rothenberg is at the forefront of sports medicine innovation. His patient-centered approach is shaped by years of experience treating professional and collegiate athletes, as well as his own background as a former college football player.

Dr. Rothenberg completed his medical education and residency at the University of Miami, where he worked with elite athletes, including the University of Miami Hurricanes and the Miami Marlins. His sports medicine fellowship at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York further refined his skills as he treated players from the NFL’s New York Jets and the NHL’s New York Islanders. These experiences have given him a deep understanding of the physical and mental challenges athletes face, informing his commitment to delivering personalized care.

Dr. Rothenberg’s passion for sports and medicine began early, inspired by his own experiences as a multi-sport athlete. Whether it’s repairing an ACL, restoring a damaged shoulder, or guiding a patient through recovery, his goal is simple: to help people get back to doing what they love. From advanced ACL repair techniques like Bridge-Enhanced ACL Repair (BEAR) to innovative cartilage preservation procedures, he is continually working to improve recovery times and outcomes for his patients.

Outside of his medical practice, Dr. Rothenberg embodies the athlete’s mindset he cultivated through years of competitive sports. In his 20s and 30s, he was an avid CrossFitter, embracing the discipline and intensity that define the sport. He has also run the New York and Chicago Marathons, experiences that deepened his understanding of the physical and mental endurance required to overcome challenges. Today, he applies this same mindset to both his professional life and personal pursuits, helping his patients and himself stay active and resilient.

When he’s not in the operating room or clinic, Dr. Rothenberg enjoys spending time with his wife, their children, and their two dogs. He remains passionate about sports, whether cheering on his favorite teams or staying active with his family. Dr. Rothenberg also shares his expertise through patient education videos, professional presentations, and blog posts, helping to make orthopedic and sports medicine topics accessible to everyone.

Dr. Rothenberg has been featured in major publications like The New York Times and The Los Angeles Times and regularly contributes to conversations about cutting-edge developments in sports medicine. His ultimate mission? Helping his patients regain mobility, overcome challenges, and lead active, fulfilling lives.