Paul Huddleston, M.D., M.S.

I’m an orthopedic and spine surgeon committed to helping patients regain strength and mobility through evidence-based care. My clinical focus includes spine reconstruction, musculoskeletal infections and complex trauma. My goal is to combine advanced surgical expertise with compassionate, personalized care that helps you return to the life you value.

As an orthopedic and spine surgeon, my goal is to restore strength and mobility through care that is both advanced and personal. I start by listening to your story and understanding what matters most — whether it’s returning to work, enjoying family activities, or simply moving without pain. My approach reflects Mayo Clinic’s evidence-based practices and the Franciscan values of respect, compassion and service. We begin with non-surgical options whenever possible and reserve surgery for when it offers clear benefit.

I work closely with physical therapists, pain specialists and imaging experts to create a plan tailored to your needs. My years of leadership at Mayo Clinic and 28 years of military service taught me the importance of resilience, preparation and teamwork — qualities I bring to every patient interaction. Every decision is shared: we discuss risks, benefits and long-term outcomes so you feel confident about your care. Together, we’ll focus on safe, effective solutions that help you live the life you value.

Over the course of my career, I’ve authored more than 90 peer-reviewed publications, available on platforms such as PubMed and Google Scholar, reflecting my dedication to advancing surgical science and improving patient outcomes. My research spans infection prevention, spine surgery techniques, and health systems innovation. After 28 years in the U.S. Army Reserve and six overseas deployments, I bring resilience, teamwork and preparation to every patient interaction.

Outside of medicine, I enjoy fishing on Minnesota lakes, exploring the outdoors and reading history. These activities keep me grounded and remind me of the importance of balance and well-being.

Education

• Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine
• Master's degree, Epidemiology and Health Sciences Research Musculoskeletal Infections, Mayo Graduate School of Biomedical Science

Residency

• Orthopedic Surgery Programs, Mayo Clinic School of Graduate Medical Education

Fellowships

• Epidemiology and Health Services Evaluation, Mayo Clinic School of Graduate Medical Education
• Orthopedic Spine Surgery, Twin Cities Spine Center

Certifications

• Adult Reconstruction, American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons
• Orthopedic Surgery, American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery

Memberships

• American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons
• American Orthopaedic Association
• Chair, Surgical and Procedural Committee, Mayo Clinic Health System
• Minnesota Medical Association
• Zumbro Valley Medical Society

Academic Appointments

• Associate Professor of Neurosurgery, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science
• Associate Professor of Orthopedics, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science

• Spinal deformity
• Spinal infections
• Spinal oncology
• Spinal trauma surgery
• Spine surgery
• Tumors of the spine

• 2015 Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA) clinical practice guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of native vertebral osteomyelitis in adults, September 2015.
• Trends in the epidemiology of osteomyelitis: a population-based study, 1969 to 2009, May 2015.
• C-reactive protein, erythrocyte sedimentation rate and orthopedic implant infection, February 2010.
• The management and outcome of spinal implant infections: contemporary retrospective cohort study, April 2007.
• Effects of a hospitalist model on elderly patients with hip fracture, April 2005.