Skip to navigation Skip to Content

Search

Menu
Search Marshfield Clinic Health System
Join a world-class health system. Find jobs
“I like to fix things and have always been good with my hands. Orthopedics is a natural fit for me."​​​

Provider Bio down arrow

Dr. David C. Carlson is an orthopedic surgeon who sees patients with bone and joint issues and soft tissue injuries.


His love for medicine began when he was young. Dr. Carlson's active childhood meant he visited the doctor's office several times for stitches. That's where he fell in love with the idea of helping others.

“I was 9 years old when I made up my mind that I wanted to be a doctor," said Dr. Carlson.

Driven by a passion for surgery and helping patients young and old get back to doing what they love, Dr. Carlson treats each patient with empathy. He grew up involved in sports and the outdoors, so he understands injuries and pain that can come from living an active lifestyle. Dr. Carlson also emphasizes the importance of being open and honest with his patients.

“My philosophy for practicing medicine involves knowledge, communication and good care," he said.

Dr. Carlson earned his medical degree at the University of South Dakota-School of Medicine in Vermillion.

In his spare time, he is involved in church ministry and enjoys spending time with his wife and eight grandchildren, hunting, fishing and listening to classic rock music.​​

Professional Summary down arrow

  • Medical School
    University of South Dakota - School of Medicine Vermillion, SD, United States, M.D. 1980

    Internship
    Avera McKennan Hospital & University Health Center Sioux Falls, SD, United States, Orthopedics 1981

    Residency
    University of Minnesota - Hospitals & Clinics Minneapolis, MN, United States, Orthopedic Surgery 1985

  • Professional Societies
    American College of Sports Medicine

    State Licenses
    Wisconsin

    NPI
    1134179419

Patient Ratings down arrow

4.8
out of 5 (78 ratings, 7 comments)
4.8
Provider explanations of my problem
4.8
Provider concern for my questions
4.8
Provider's efforts to include me in treatment decisions
4.8
Provider's discussion of proposed treatment
4.8
My likelihood of recommending this provider

Patient Comments down arrow

Comments are also gathered from the Press Ganey patient satisfaction survey and displayed in their entirety with the exception of any language that may be considered slander, libel or contain private health information, which will be removed prior to publishing.
Comments are from Press Ganey surveys. Slander, libel and private health information are removed.
Sort by:
January 23, 2024
I think the world of Dr. Carlson. I had 3 surgeries by him this past year and I had very good results with them. He is an excellent doctor and I am very thrilled to have him as my doctor.
February 13, 2024
Dr. Carlson very thorough and friendly.
April 8, 2024
Extremely helpful visit.
October 1, 2024
I have already told many family & friends about Dr. Carlson & my surgical experience. All positive.
October 18, 2024
Dr. Carlson is great!
August 20, 2024
Dr. Carlson is very good at explaining things.
June 11, 2024
Horrible experience - no personalized care.
June 11, 2024
Horrible experience - no personalized care.
August 20, 2024
Dr. Carlson is very good at explaining things.
January 23, 2024
I think the world of Dr. Carlson. I had 3 surgeries by him this past year and I had very good results with them. He is an excellent doctor and I am very thrilled to have him as my doctor.
February 13, 2024
Dr. Carlson very thorough and friendly.
April 8, 2024
Extremely helpful visit.
October 1, 2024
I have already told many family & friends about Dr. Carlson & my surgical experience. All positive.
October 18, 2024
Dr. Carlson is great!
January 23, 2024
I think the world of Dr. Carlson. I had 3 surgeries by him this past year and I had very good results with them. He is an excellent doctor and I am very thrilled to have him as my doctor.
February 13, 2024
Dr. Carlson very thorough and friendly.
April 8, 2024
Extremely helpful visit.
June 11, 2024
Horrible experience - no personalized care.
August 20, 2024
Dr. Carlson is very good at explaining things.
October 1, 2024
I have already told many family & friends about Dr. Carlson & my surgical experience. All positive.
October 18, 2024
Dr. Carlson is great!
October 18, 2024
Dr. Carlson is great!
October 1, 2024
I have already told many family & friends about Dr. Carlson & my surgical experience. All positive.
August 20, 2024
Dr. Carlson is very good at explaining things.
June 11, 2024
Horrible experience - no personalized care.
April 8, 2024
Extremely helpful visit.
February 13, 2024
Dr. Carlson very thorough and friendly.
January 23, 2024
I think the world of Dr. Carlson. I had 3 surgeries by him this past year and I had very good results with them. He is an excellent doctor and I am very thrilled to have him as my doctor.

Honor a Shining Star

Shining star logo

Honor a provider or care team member who makes a difference in your care with a gift through the Shining Star program.