Michael Harper MD
Interventional Sports Medicine / Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Physician
Michael Harper MD is currently seeing patients in
A Madison area native, Dr. Michael Harper earned his undergraduate degree in Athletic Training at the University of Wisconsin – La Crosse, where he then went to the Medical College of Wisconsin to receive his medical degree. Dr. Harper completed his residency at the Medical College of Wisconsin Affiliated Hospitals which required a Transitional year prior to his Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (PM&R) residency. Following residency, Dr. Harper acquired his fellowship in Sports Medicine at the Hospital for Special Surgery in New York City, New York.
Dr. Harper treats non-operative sports medicine and orthopedic conditions such as shoulder, elbow, wrist/hand, hip, knee, neck/back, and ankle/foot pain. Additionally, he treats a variety of both acute and chronic conditions from ankle sprains to tendon disorders, to osteoarthritis. Dr. Harper performs a variety of musculoskeletal procedures in which the majority are guided by ultrasound or fluoroscopy (x-ray). Some of these procedures he performs include joint injections, radiofrequency ablations, and Orthobiologics – also known as Regenerative Medicine. Orthobiologics (Regenerative Medicine) taps into the body’s ability to heal itself by using your own cells and healing properties.
Dr. Harper is an Interventional Sports Medicine/Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Physician, as well as a physiatrist, or a physician specializing in PM&R. As a physiatrist, Dr. Harper strives to evaluate his patients as a whole and focus their treatments on improving their function and quality of life. Dr. Harper is board-certified in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation and Sports Medicine.
Dr. Harper believes that the best part of his job is helping patients achieve their goals. These patient goals can range from an athlete getting back to their sport, or a grandparent being able to play with their grandchildren.
In his free time, Dr. Harper loves spending time with his wife and three boys. Dr. Harper enjoys playing in the back yard with his kids or playing board games, spending time at their in-law’s cabin in the summer and watching Packer games in the fall.
“I want to empower my patients and give them the tools to improve their condition. I can assist in discussion of options such as therapy, non-operative procedures, lifestyle changes, bracing, and medication optimization.”
Languages Spoken: English
Undergraduate Degree: University of Wisconsin – La Crosse, Athletic Training – La Crosse, WI
Medical School: Medical College of Wisconsin – Milwaukee, WI
Residency: Medical College of Wisconsin Affiliated Hospitals, Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation – Milwaukee, WI
Fellowship: Hospital for Special Surgery/Weill Cornell, Sports Medicine – New York City, NY
Memberships:
- AMSSM – American Medical Society for Sports Medicine
- AAPM&R – American Academy of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation
Testimonials:

Patient Submitted Review
Feb-2025
Dr. Harper was so friendly and likable! It was very convenient that I was able to see him while I was at my appointment with another doctor. I had a previous experience with another doctor of his expertise, but Dr. Harper was a “miracle man!” The procedure was over before I thought he had begun and I had no cause to fear! It was quick and nearly painless! I am so grateful not to have the agony I had endured before! With all that said, I totally recommend him!
Patient Submitted Review
Feb-2025
Dr. Harper was a 10. He knew what I was having pain from. Put myself at ease, then let me know what to expect from my treatment. Looking forward to relieving my pain and stress at this point. I will keep them posted as to my condition Thank you Dr. Harper
Patient Submitted Review
Feb-2025
Dr. Harper really took the time to listen to my concerns about an injury I have. He is very knowledgeable and gave me options and steps he recommended to help with my injury. After deciding on having an injection Dr. Harper was able to do the procedure the same day.
Patient Submitted Review
Jan-2025
Dr. Harper was very thorough and understanding, he did an ultrasound guided injection to my right shoulder. Since that day, I have had little to no pain with movement and I can sleep at night again. Great staff. I definitely would go see him again if needed.
Patient Submitted Review
Jan-2025
Dr. Harper explained my situation very well. He offered options for healing. We discussed and came to a mutual agreement on a treatment plan. He explained my situation in verbiage I could understand. Highly recommend.
Patient Submitted Review
Nov-2024
This was the first time i saw Dr. Harper. I was nicely surprised as he was very pleasant and listened to my concerns. I felt right away like I was in good hands and he knew what he was doing when he did the injection in my shoulder. I would certainly recommend him to any family or friend. I couldn’t see the dr Who diagnosed my problem for almost 3 months. No way I wanted to wait that long. I am very thankful that I was able To see Dr Harper in a week. I don’t know why it would take almost 3 months somewhere else. The procedure was very quick.
Patient Submitted Review
Nov-2024
OSMS Is an amazing place! From the minute you walk in you are warmly welcomed! The staff, the nurses and the doctors are all professional, very helpful and friendly. I came in to see Dr. Tressler, thinking my hips have been bad for years, And found out it was a curve in my spine. I was able to see Dr. Harper the same day! Thank you for taking the time to see me all in one day as I had to travel a few hours to get there! Thank you for caring enough to tell me what was going on..
Patient Submitted Review
Nov-2024
The staff was fantastic and I’ve had many injections before but this was my first time with Dr Harper and it was great . The best one I’ve ever had . I will definitely be going back to him again if needed.
rater8 Verified Patient
Nov-2024
Immediate pain relief. After a thorough and patient conversation, Dr. Harper gave me each of the options and let me decide. His bedside manner was impeccable and I'm so impressed with how immediate the relief was. I went in for a consult and came out pain free. Totally recommend!! The only regret I have is waiting so long to schedule.
Patient Submitted Review
Nov-2024
Dr Harper & team were friendly and knowledgeable. The procedure was quick and painless. After getting off the table I found I could stand and move around without pain. It felt wonderful! Now I want my knee injected.
rater8 Verified Patient
Oct-2024
First time receiving a cortisone injection. Dr. Harper and his nurse were so kind and supportive since I am very jittery about these injections. They were able to schedule me in after my diagnosis from my Dr. thank you!
Patient Submitted Review
Oct-2024
Dr. Harper was very friendly and he answers all my questions. He advised me when I could get the COVID shot because getting it to soon, the COVID shot would not provided the full benefits because of the medication I had just received. I was very happy with his services.
rater8 Verified Patient
Jul-2024
Dr Harper was excellent ,, very patient and very kind and very considerate of patient ,, I am on oxygen and he was very patient with me ,, as I get short of breath very easy ,, would advise anyone to see him ,,
rater8 Verified Patient
Jun-2024
My 95-year-old mother was suffering extreme pain in her back, leg and knee. Dr. Harper took time out of his day to call me to discuss my mother's pain, to understand her situation. He heard all I had to share. Her pain is now managed through the injections he administered. My mother found relief in Dr Harper's care. We also thank Dr Harper's staff from our hearts for their kindness and care.
rater8 Verified Patient
Jun-2024
super nice Doctor, It was his first procedure with me, I was very comfortable and relieved of my pain. He answered all my questions. I would highly recommend him. His associate /nurse was also pleasant. Very nice exprrience!
Patient Submitted Review
May-2024
It was great. The pain in my hip is 95-98% better. I couldn't be more pleased. Dr Harper explained that if it comes back that I could get another procedure. Hopefully it won't be needed. I am very pleased with your service!
Patient Submitted Review
May-2024
Dr. Harper is very personable and skilled physician. He explains information in a way that is easy to understand too. He has also helped me tremendously with the issue I was having. I highly recommend Dr. Harper. On another note, OSMS is very punctual with appointments.
Patient Submitted Review
May-2024
Practically no time spent waiting. I was quickly brought into the exam room, questions asked, a few minutes later Dr Harper cam in and we got started with the procedure. The doctor is very personable and knowledgeable. The procedure was quick and worked great.
rater8 Verified Patient
May-2024
Dr Harper was very personable and listed fully to my concerns. He quickly coordinated diagnostic testing to determine the source of my pain. I am very happy that I received a plan of action during my visit so I can look forward to being pain free ASAP.
Patient Submitted Review
May-2024
Very impressed with timely appt and Dr Harper. Dr Harper was very impressive. He totally explained my condition and xrays and asked if I had any questions. Gave me advice on going forward and will see him in 6 weeks.
Patient Submitted Review
Apr-2024
My first visit with Dr. Harper last week for severe hip/groin pain. He did an US and injection. He was very kind and I was told that it could take 2-3 weeks for the injection to take full effect. I am still a little sore but I trust that the injection will take care of my pain. I am now going to send my husband to see him!
rater8 Verified Patient
Apr-2024
Dr Harper was able to see me almost immediately following my appointment with Dr Parman. He explained the procedure and asked for feedback throughout. I was impressed with the ultrasound guided aspiration and steroid injection.
Patient Submitted Review
Mar-2024
1st time for my 90 year old mom. He and the staff listened and took action. And my mother thinks he cute and so nice. Se walked out with no pain. She had pain in arm for 1 week. At level 10 and above now she is so happy. 0
Patient Submitted Review
Mar-2024
Dr. Harper is a very informative, professional and friendly doctor. He explained everything in detail while working on Baker cysts and he asked me many questions. I would recommend Dr. Harper to everyone.
rater8 Verified Patient
Mar-2024
This was my first visit to Dr. Harper. I found him to be very friendly and personable. Dr. Harper listened to my concerns and answered all my questions in an understandable way. I feel comfortable moving forward with the care he will provide for me.
rater8 Verified Patient
Mar-2024
I cannot say enough about the wonderful care I received from Dr. Harper. Following a couple very rough, painful weeks I left the office feeling so much better emotionally. This man listened to me. I wasn’t rushed. We worked together to find a way forward. I was given several options. Dr. Harper was very, very kind, personable, and compassionate. I left feeling sooo much better.
rater8 Verified Patient
Mar-2024
Very friendly and knowledgeable. Explanation was spot on and helpful. I would recommend him to anyone. OSMS facilities and staff are top notch. They even have coffee and tea in the waiting area with real ceramic mugs. This was my first time there and I am impressed.
rater8 Verified Patient
Mar-2024
Dr Harper is excellent. He listens and gathers information in such a caring, kind, professional manner to give you the best possible outcome. He also has a wonderful sense of humor, which goes a long way in my book.
rater8 Verified Patient
Feb-2024
Dr. Harper was recommended to me to have a cortisone shot in a kind of tricky space in my hand. Here's the thing, I was told that he had already added 3 others to his busy schedule. I was worried because I had a long drive home and was afraid I'd be sitting in the lobby all afternoon until I could be squeezed in. But NO!, I was escorted to the lobby, then almost immediately was approached by another nurse who took me straight to the room with the imaging support. Dr. Harper arrived within 5 minutes, smiling like he was delighted to help me. I can't say the shot was painless, but anyone who has had a shot in their hand, thumb or wrist knows these shots are tricky and can hurt. But Dr. Harper worked quickly and efficiently. I had the clear feeling he was absolutely sure at every move. And he could not have been nicer. I was so grateful,
rater8 Verified Patient
Feb-2024
I was scheduled with one of Dr. Harpers colleagues but it turned out, that Dr. wasn’t who I needed to see. Dr. Harper saw me within 10 minutes of learning I was in the office and was needing to see him. When I saw Dr. Harper he was as nice as could be. He explained what he saw in my xrays and made a plan from there. I cannot say enough good things about my entire visit to this clinic.
Patient Submitted Review
Jan-2024
Dr. Harper is very knowledgeable and personable. He thoroughly reviewed all of the options regarding treatment for my knee pain. The procedure that he performed went smoothly and has helped tremendously. His staff was also very kind and courteous.
rater8 Verified Patient
Jan-2024
Absolutely would recommend Dr Harper to family or friends! Did not feel rushed. He took all the time needed and answered all of our questions very professionally. Loved that there were very noninvasive treatments offered!
Patient Submitted Review
Jan-2024
I had a great visit with Dr. Harper. He showed me my x-ray and MRI and explained everything very well, and discussed treatment options. He listened to my questions and concerns. I didn't feel at all rushed. I would definitely recommend him to friends and family.
rater8 Verified Patient
Jan-2024
I was impressed with Dr Harper. He is very easy to talk to and answered my questions and explained my problem and discussed different treatment option and explained the difference in benefits of each option. I really appreciated the fact that he was able to work me in for the treatment i picked the same day . I recommended him to a friend already Thank you and your nurse assistant! Both awesome!!
Patient Submitted Review
Dec-2023
First time seeing Dr Harper. He's wonderful! Professional, knowledgeable, compassionate, thorough and phenomenal listener. He inspires confidence which is so important to me. We're off to a good start on getting my pain under control and I'm confident it will only get better. Thank you also to Amanda for fitting me into his schedule. Deb Giese
rater8 Verified Patient
Dec-2023
Had an emergency with my back! My current physician, Dr. Bruhnding was in procedures. I was connected up with Dr. Harper. He was very professional & explained everything. I strongly recommend OSMS pain management clinic - both Dr. Bruhnding and Dr. Harper! They will take care of you !!
Patient Submitted Review
Apr-2025
Dr. Harper was very knowledgeable regarding my husband's condition. Very kind and calm. Dr. Harper gave us alternative solutions we had not heard from other Healthcare workers. Dr. Harper gave us hope for less pain in the future.