About Nathan R. Wanderman, MD

Nathan Wanderman, MD, is a fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon who specializes in the surgical and non-surgical management of conditions affecting the spine. He performs surgeries ranging from same-day minimally invasive procedures to complex revisions. He treats spinal disorders of both the neck and back, including disc herniations, spinal stenosis, spondylolisthesis, spinal cord compression, spinal deformities, spondylosis (arthritis of the spine), spine tumors, and spine fractures.

Dr. Wanderman uses a targeted stepwise treatment algorithm that emphasizes conservative management first and surgery only when necessary. When recommending surgical treatment, he believes in using the least invasive option to achieve a successful and durable outcome. Dr. Wanderman utilizes the most advanced surgical techniques, including muscle-preserving approaches, motion-preserving disc replacements, stereotactic navigation, and cutting-edge biologics to deliver the best possible surgical outcomes for his patients.

Dr. Wanderman grew up in the west Twin Cities metro, graduating valedictorian from Hopkins High School. He then attended the University of Minnesota, graduating Summa Cum Laude with a triple major in Economics, Political Science, and American Studies, and was selected to give the commencement address. He stayed at the University of Minnesota for medical school, where he was inducted into the Alpha Omega Alpha Medical Honor Society as a junior for graduating in the top 5% of his class. He completed residency in orthopedic surgery at the Mayo Clinic, followed by fellowship at the world-renowned Leatherman Spine Institute, where he trained with both orthopedic surgeons and neurosurgeons to learn the most advanced techniques in spine care. Dr. Wanderman has published over 30 peer-reviewed journal articles and book chapters, and presented his work internationally. He loves hiking, writing music, and traveling with his wife.