James Carl Sterling, MD

Dr. Sterling specializes in non-operative Musculoskeletal Medicine, Sports Medicine, and Sports Related Concussions. Dr. Sterling is Board Certified in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (AAPM&R) and is a certified ImPACT Concussion Physician. Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (PMR) focuses on the management of disorders that alter function and performance. 


SPORTS MEDICINE

A sports enthusiast and avid fan of all sports, Dr. Sterling has years of experience covering sports of all levels, both internationally and locally. He has been heavily involved in the US Olympic Program, serving as the Head Physician for the 2006 Winter Olympics in Torino, Italy, the Head Physician for the 2000 Paralympic Team in Sydney, Australia, and served as a Team Physician for the 1998 Winter Olympics in Nagano, Japan and the 1996 Paralympic Team in Atlanta. Dr. Sterling has also served as a Team Physician for USA Basketball on several occasions. In the 1990’s, Dr. Sterling was the Head Physician over the Women’s Tennis Association Tour.

Locally, Dr. Sterling brings his experience and expertise to several area high schools, middle schools, and colleges. He serves as a Team Physician for Allen High School, St. Mark School of Texas, Highland Park High School, Jesuit College Preparatory Academy, Anna High School, Wylie High School, and Ursuline Academy, as well as consulting with many other schools and athletic trainers. He also serves on the Medical Board, and Concussion Oversight Teams for many school districts.  

CONCUSSION

Dr. Sterling has been a leader in concussion care in the state of Texas for a long time. He was part of the committee to author HB 238 (Natasha’s Law) which now governs the management of concussions for all UIL Athletes in Texas. It has also served as an example for legislation in other states around the country. In his career, Dr. Sterling and his team of Certified Athletic Trainers have managed over 7,000 concussions. He serves on several Concussion Oversight Teams for area schools and has been instrumental in working with school districts on their academic policies for students returning from concussions.
Dr. Sterling’s philosophy is to provide compassionate and kind care that focuses not only on the relief of pain and suffering but helps patients return to activities that give them quality of life.
Dr. Sterling was recognized by D Magazine as a Best Doctor for 2009, 2010, 2014, 2023, 2024 and 2025.

D Magazine has named Baylor Scott & White Orthopedics the "Face of Orthopedics" for 2026. Read more here.

Dr. Sterling has been named one of Texas Monthly's Texas Super Doctors for over 10 years earning him a place on Texas Monthly's Hall of Fame list.