John-Erik Bell, MD
- Orthopaedics

Locations
About me
As a shoulder surgery specialist, I treat a wide range of shoulder problems. I perform a range of common to complex reconstructive surgeries. My surgical practice features:
Arthroscopic rotator cuff repair
Shoulder replacements (including reverse total shoulder replacement)
Repair of unstable shoulders
Revision surgeries after past operations
Arthroscopy
Treatment of shoulder fractures
My primary goal is to give every patient the best possible care, even in the most difficult cases. I ensure that my patients understand their diagnosis and treatment options. This allows them to be actively involved in decisions about their care.
I work with a skilled team of shoulder care professionals every day. This team includes:
Physician assistants
Nurse practitioners
Registered nurses
Physical therapists
Medical assistants
Athletic trainers
In many cases, we can reduce pain and improve shoulder function without surgery, which is always our first choice. However, sometimes surgery is the best way to restore movement and relieve pain.
I base my care on proven medical research, and use the latest tools and technology to improve results. I spend a great deal of my free time thinking about shoulder problems and coming up with ways that we can improve our knowledge through scientific research and technological advancement.
I have published many papers and textbook chapters on a wide range of shoulder conditions, and the cost-effectiveness of shoulder surgery. I have developed and teach new technology that is utilized worldwide to improve the precise execution of shoulder replacement surgery.
Specialties
- Sports Medicine
- Orthopaedics
Areas of focus
- Shoulder arthroscopy
- Arthroscopic rotator cuff repair
- Treatment of simple and complex shoulder instability
- Total shoulder replacement
- Reverse total shoulder replacement
- Fractures and dislocations of the shoulder
- Sports injuries of the shoulder
Titles and faculty positions
- Vice Chair and Section Chief of Faculty Affairs, Department of Orthopaedics
- Professor of Orthopaedics, Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth
View my Geisel School of Medicine profile
Awards and achievements
- 2019 to 2025 Top Doctor (named by Castle Connolly, published by New Hampshire Magazine)
Year joined
- 2006
Department websites
Education
Medical school
- MD, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 2000
Residency
- Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, IA, 2005
Fellowship
- Shoulder, Elbow and Sports Medicine, Columbia-Presbyterian Medical Center, New York, NY, 2006
Board certification
- Orthopaedic Surgery
- Orthopaedic Sports Medicine