John Lin, M.D., has been with Shepherd Center since 2005 and works with the following programs:
Specialties
- Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation
- Spinal Cord Injury Medicine
Education and training
Temple University Hospital
Residency, Internal Medicine and Rehabilitation Medicine, 1996-2001
Medical University of South Carolina
Medial School, 1996
Certifications
American Board of Internal Medicine
Certified in Internal Medicine
American Board of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
Certified in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation
American Board of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
Certified in Spinal Cord Injury Medicine
About
Dr. John Lin is the medical director of the Spinal Cord Injury Program at Shepherd Center, with a unique journey that brings a dual perspective as both a former patient and a current doctor. In 1991, while on summer break from college, he experienced an epidural arteriovenous malformation, a condition similar to an aneurysm, which left him paralyzed. During his recovery in Charleston, a Shepherd Center admissions liaison introduced him to the facility, renowned for its expertise in treating spinal cord injuries. This encounter marked the beginning of his connection with Shepherd Center.
Determined to pursue a career in medicine after his discharge, Dr. Lin sought mentorship from Dr. Donald Leslie, Shepherd Center’s Medical Director. With Dr. Leslie’s guidance, Dr. Lin navigated through medical school and residency, initially practicing general rehabilitation medicine and working at a VA hospital. In 2005, he officially joined the Shepherd medical staff.
Dr. Lin’s expertise in both internal medicine and physical medicine and rehabilitation (PM&R) greatly benefits his patients. His comprehensive knowledge enables him to guide patients from acute injury through preventative care, anticipating and mitigating complications before they arise. This dual proficiency is particularly valuable in managing the complex medication interactions common in spinal cord injury patients.
Outside Shepherd Center, Dr. Lin is an assistant professor at Emory University School of Medicine and has held various leadership roles at Emory and the Atlanta Veterans Administration Medical Center. He is a member of several professional organizations and has received the Robert L. Bennett, M.D. Award for Teaching Excellence in Physiatry. An avid wheelchair tennis player, you can often find Dr. Link competing in local league tournaments.
