November 13, 2023
Meet Padmini Prabhu
Physician Assistant
Padmini provides nonsurgical care for musculoskeletal disorders, and specializes in treating acute neck and back pain, spine injuries and SI joint pain.
Where are you from? 
I am originally from India, and have been in St. Louis for 21 years.
What made you choose orthopedics as a specialty?
I was a practicing physical therapist and went back to school to be a physician assistant in 2014. Orthopedics has always been my interest and rehabilitation has always been my passion. I find it fulfilling and rewarding to help people feel better from acute pain and allow them to return to activities they enjoy.
What brought you to Washington University Orthopedics?
I have always wanted to work for WashU. Working for our spine service is a great opportunity.
How do you support the department?
I will be a provider for our acute spine clinic here at WashU Ortho, and I am looking forward to having this service model reach its full potential. I am hoping to provide access to patients who are suffering with acute injuries or back pain and improving their quality of life.
What's your favorite thing to do outside of work?
Outside of work, I love spending time with my family and friends. I enjoy dancing and partaking in Indian cultural activities.
What is the best advice you ever received?
Best advice I have received is forgive and forget, as hard as it can be at times, it is very liberating.
If you weren't in health care, what would you like to be doing?
If I was not in health care, I would love to be a dancer.
Anything else you would like to share?
My family is back in India and I look forward to visiting them as often as I can. I have a three year old goldendoodle, Niko, who is my best bud.
Learn why patient's choose Washington University Orthopedics, request an appointment online or call (314) 514-3500.