Ariel A. Palanca, MD, FAAOS
Board Certified Orthopaedic Surgeon
Foot & Ankle Specialist
Chief of Surgery - Palomar Medical Center Poway
Palomar Health Medical Group
San Diego County, CA
https://www.palomarhealth.org/find-a-doctor/profile/id706/ariel-palanca-md
How has the AAOS helped you throughout your career?
During residency, I attended both an AAOS trauma and arthroscopy course. These skills helped me succeed by giving me a head start in my rotations. The AAOS annual meetings are a highlight of my year and a great way to reconnect and learn with my colleagues.
As an Active Fellow Member, which AAOS resources do you use most and why?
I recently transitioned from an academic to a private practice career, and the practice management webinars were key. The AAOS website is my go-to for CME credits, literature resources, and relevant courses.
What’s the best advice you were ever given? Who was it from?
"Just get a B already". Chuck Palanca, my father.
What’s your go-to productivity trick?
Audiobooks and orthopaedic podcasts when I commute, run or bike.
What’s one thing you’re currently trying to make a habit?
Trying to do 50 pushups and 200 sit-ups every day.
What hobbies do you enjoy in your spare time?
Running, travel, playing guitar, visiting breweries.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that not many people know?
I used to be the lead singer in a band.