August 19, 2024

Meet William Hollabaugh, MD 

Sports Medicine Physician 

Dr. Hollabaugh provides nonoperative care for all musculoskeletal sports-related conditions in pediatric and adolescent patients. He also specializes in providing a wide array of diagnostic and procedural musculoskeletal ultrasounds in patients of all ages. 

Where are you from? 

I was born and raised in St. Louis and I am proud to be able to call STL my home again. Generations of my parent's families come from St. Louis and I have great memories growing up here. Raised on local sports, exploring iconic local landmarks, enjoying the distinct cuisine, and appreciating our unique historical significance and heritage, I deeply appreciate St. Louis’ culture. I am excited to revisit my favorite places while also establishing new connections and memories.

What made you choose pediatric sports medicine as an orthopedic specialty? 

Growing up, I played many sports with a main interest in hockey through Kirkwood Youth Hockey. Gradually, I realized how formative that experience was in shaping essential character traits which later proved valuable. In college, I attended a human anatomy course and was captivated by musculoskeletal anatomy. In medical school, I found that while I enjoyed managing the complexities and needs of medical care for the whole patient, my focus remained on the musculoskeletal system. Guided by a mentor, I discovered that I could merge my passion for sports and the values and health benefits they provide with my interest in musculoskeletal anatomy.

Sports medicine is unique because it combines primary care medicine with a specialized focus on diagnosis, and treatment of sports-related conditions. This field enables me to work in a multidisciplinary setting, collaborating closely with healthcare professionals such as physical therapists, athletic trainers, dietitians, sports psychologists, and coaches as well as providers in cardiology, pulmonology and neurology, just to name a few. Providing care for athletes has taken me across the United States and even internationally, and I am fortunate to be able to call it my “job.”

What brought you to Washington University Orthopedics? 

Washington University School of Medicine is a premier academic institution that leads in patient care, research and medical education. Moreover, Washington University Orthopedics is recognized nationally and worldwide as leaders in the field of orthopedics. WashU Ortho's academic foundation aligns with my goal of delivering evidence-based, high-level sports medicine and non-operative orthopedic clinical care, serving as a team physician and providing athletic coverage, contributing to the advancement of medical care through research, involvement in sports medicine societies and engaging in medical education.

From a personal perspective, I grew up surrounded by WashU. Both my mother and grandpa attended and worked at WashU. My grandpa attended WashingtonU School of Medicine (‘59) and became a professor. He taught four decades of medical students and was asked to visit the Soviet Union during the Cold War to inform leading Soviet physicians about what later became identified as Hepatitis-C. My grandpa is an excellent example of how WashU School of Medicine fosters leaders in medicine. I am grateful for the opportunity to join a world-class institution with a personal connection.

What aspect of your practice do you find most rewarding?

Physical activity is important for both physical and mental health and can also lead to the development of crucial social and motor skills. Incorporating regular physical activity into our routine can benefit our overall well-being and development, laying the foundation for a healthy lifestyle. Unfortunately, musculoskeletal injures can disrupt our ability to partake in physical activity. I grew up playing ice hockey through which I faced injuries and worked through the rehabilitation process. I knew the frustration of wanting to play but not being able, and I can empathize with injured athletes. Because of these experiences, I find that helping patients get healthy and return to their physical activity or sport of choice is one of the most rewarding experience of my practice.

What are the benefits of musculoskeletal ultrasound? 

I personally enjoy and incorporate ultrasound regularly in my practice. Diagnostic and procedural musculoskeletal ultrasound offers numerous benefits, particularly in the fields of sports medicine and orthopedics. Ultrasound allows for the identification of high resolution, live images of musculoskeletal structures, allowing for immediate assessment of acute and chronic injuries to muscles, joints, tendons, ligaments and bones. Moreover, ultrasound allows for dynamic evaluation of structures that may not be visible on static imaging. Also, ultrasound is non-invasive, lacks radiation and is generally less expensive than advanced imaging modalities. Ultrasound can also be fun, especially for youth athletes. During appointments when I use ultrasound, I show my patients their ultrasound images in real time and educate them about their own anatomy.

What is the best advice you ever received? 

My great grandfather William used to say that “if you’re going to do something, do it right.” These words of advice could not be more applicable for the field of medicine, where effort, knowledge and precision are key. Adhering to high standards builds trust and confidence, avoids complications and minimizes risks to patient safety. It is your right as a patient to receive an accurate diagnosis and the appropriate treatment. My goal is to set my patients on that path at their first appointment, with the support of WashU Ortho – renowned for its nationally recognized orthopedic care and innovative research.

What's your favorite thing to do outside of work? 

Family is crucial to me, and I enjoy spending time with my wife, daughter, family, friends, and our dog, MacInnis (yes, named after the St. Louis Blues icon). I also appreciate seeing live music, barbecuing and exploring the outdoors. I grew up fishing all over Missouri, particularly at The Lake of the Ozarks. From largemouth bass and channel catfish in Missouri, to walleye and northern pike in Wisconsin, to brown and rainbow trout in Tennessee, I am always content when fishing. An ideal fishing trip for me involves setting catfish jugs on the way to fish for largemouth bass and then checking the jugs on the way home. This way, you can reminisce about the bass you caught over a tasty catfish dinner!

If you weren't a physician, what would you like to be doing?

I would be a fishing guide. I love to fish, and guiding incorporates both practical skills and intellectual challenges in ways that would make the job uniquely fulfilling. Guiding would provide a connection with nature, the ability to teach, the required knowledge of ecosystems and the technical expertise required to utilize fishing gear and equipment. It would also allow social connection with fellow fishers. 

Anything else you'd like to share? 

Fun fact: WashU will actually be my third employer at or adjacent to Forest Park. Growing up, I worked on the grounds crew at both the Saint Louis Zoo and The Muny. Alas, this time around, I won’t be seeing the zoo animals or observing practicing actors and musicians while I’m at work. 

Learn why patient's choose Washington University Orthopedics, request an appointment online or call (314) 514-3500.