Board Eligible
James S. Dahm, MD
Hand & Upper Extremity
Shoulder Replacement/Arthroplasty
Commonly Treated Conditions & Procedures Performed:
Hand & Upper Extremity
Arthritis of the Shoulder, Elbow, Wrist, and Hand Arthroscopy and Minimally Invasive Surgery Bursitis Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Cubital Tunnel Syndrome Deformity Correction Dupuytren’s Contracture De Quervain Tendinitis Elbow Surgery Endoscopic Carpal Tunnel Release Surgery Fractures and Trauma Ganglion Cysts Hand and Wrist Surgery Muscle, Tendon, and Ligament Injuries Peripheral Nerve Surgery Repetitive Motion Injury Rotator Cuff Tears Shoulder Replacement Sports Injuries and Dislocations of the Upper Limb Strains and Sprains Stress Fractures Tendon Transfers Tendon Repair Tendonitis Tennis & Golfer’s Elbow Trigger Finger
Biography
James Dahm, MD is a fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon specializing in upper extremity and microsurgery, focusing on the treatment of shoulder, elbow, wrist, and hand disorders. His clinical expertise includes trauma, arthritis, nerve injuries, and complex reconstructive surgeries.
Hailing from Merrill, Wisconsin, Dr. Dahm has a deep connection to the people of his home state and feels privileged to serve the Madison community. His academic journey started at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in medical microbiology and immunology, graduating with distinction. He stayed in Madison to earn his Doctor of Medicine from the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, graduating with honors in research and distinction in public health. He has been recognized and awarded for his dedication to leadership and academic excellence, including being inducted into the Alpha Omega Alpha Honors Society.
Dr. Dahm completed his orthopedic surgery residency at the University of Chicago, where he was honored by his peers with the Chief Resident Teaching award upon graduation. Following his residency, he pursued advanced training at the Indiana Hand to Shoulder Center, where he completed an Upper Extremity Surgery and Microsurgery Fellowship.
Throughout his career, Dr. Dahm has maintained a strong commitment to the care of underserved patients, exemplified by his co-founding an organization that provides surgical mentorship opportunities to underrepresented students in Chicago and his work in national surgical policy abroad in Tanzania and Zambia.
Dr. Dahm’s approach to patient care is centered on shared decision-making. He believes that educating patients leads to better partnerships in the recovery process and better clinical outcomes. His commitment to excellence in patient care is also reflected in his involvement in clinical research, with over 20 published articles and podium presentations at national specialty conferences.
Outside of work, Dr. Dahm enjoys spending time with his wife, son, and cat, participating in outdoor activities, particularly on the water, and working on various building and repair projects. He is an avid fan of Wisconsin sports teams, including the Badgers, Bucks, Packers, and Brewers, and enjoys unwinding with a good podcast or audiobook.
Education
University of Chicago
University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health – Doctor of Medicine with Honors in Research
University of Wisconsin – B.S., Medical Microbiology, and Immunology