Michele Turnley

Dr. Michele Turnley, M.D., is an esteemed Assistant Professor in the Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation at the Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham. Her academic and professional journey is marked by a profound dedication to advancing the field of musculoskeletal medicine, with particular expertise in conservative spine care, electrodiagnosis, and ultrasound-guided injections. As the Medical Director for the Worker's Compensation Division at The Workplace, Dr. Turnley plays a pivotal role in shaping policies and practices that enhance patient care and recovery outcomes. A Louisiana native, Dr. Turnley embarked on her medical career at Louisiana State University Medical School, where she laid the foundation for her future endeavors in physical medicine. Following her graduation, she honed her skills and knowledge during her residency in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at UAB, which she completed in 2003. This experience solidified her commitment to outpatient musculoskeletal medicine, a field in which she has since excelled. In her capacity as Associate Residency Program Director, Dr. Turnley is instrumental in mentoring the next generation of physicians, imparting her extensive knowledge and experience in managing workers' compensation injuries and osteoarthritis. Her approach to patient care is characterized by a strong emphasis on conservative treatment methods, ensuring that patients receive the most effective and least invasive interventions available. Dr. Turnley's professional credentials are further underscored by her board certifications in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, as well as her status as a Certified Independent Medical Examiner. Her affiliations with the American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation and the Jefferson County Medical Association reflect her commitment to staying at the forefront of her field and contributing to the broader medical community. Throughout her career, Dr. Turnley has remained dedicated to improving patient outcomes through innovative research and clinical practice. Her work in ultrasound-guided injections and electrodiagnosis has been particularly impactful, offering new avenues for diagnosis and treatment that enhance patient care. Her contributions to the field are widely recognized, and she continues to be a leading voice in the ongoing development of physical medicine and rehabilitation practices.