Russ Johnson

Russ Johnson, PT, has a passion for helping athletes restore function and return to peak performance. He specializes in treating shoulder, hip, knee, foot and ankle conditions and enjoys the challenge of guiding athletes back to full strength and competition. His approach combines evidence-based practices with his extensive background in athletics to provide individualized care for patients of all levels.

Russ joined Knoxville Orthopaedic Clinic in 2005 and has served in various roles, including 10 years as the site coordinator at the Weisgarber office. He currently serves as director of therapy as well as service line leader for sports and shoulder services.

He earned both a bachelor’s degree in exercise science and a master’s degree in biomechanics from the University of Tennessee, followed by a Master of Physical Therapy (MPT) from the Medical College of Georgia. Russ is a Certified Athletic Trainer (ATC), Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) and a Performance Enhancement Specialist through the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM). He also is trained in Blood Flow Restriction (BFR), dry needling and Graston Technique.

With a rich history in athletics, Russ was a walk-on pole vaulter at the University of Tennessee, where he became a SEC Champion. He later coached as a volunteer pole vault coach for UT for 12 years and served as an assistant track and field coach at the University of Georgia for three years. In 2015, he was named National Pole Vault Coach of the Year, and in 2016, he coached the NCAA Champion for UT. In 2024, Russ was inducted into the Greater Knoxville Sports Hall of Fame.

Outside of work, Russ enjoys spending time with his wife, Lesly, a fitness coach for Clayton Homes and former Lady Vol, and their two children, Lily and Levi.