Hand surgeon joins Cookeville Regional’s staff

Dr. Heather Taillac’s venture into orthopedics took a number of twists and turns, with her inevitably ending up back a few hours from home.

Taillac is the newest member of the orthopedic team, specializing in upper extremities and hands.

“I enjoy helping people getting back to what they do,” she said. “Mobility is freedom.”

She earned her medical degree from the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences in Little Rock, Arkansas, completed her residency in orthopedic surgery at Ochsner Clinic Foundation in New Orleans, Louisiana, and a fellowship in hand and upper extremity at the University of Florida.

“I love animals, so I thought originally I was going to go to veterinary school,” she said. “But I took a year off instead.”

She met her husband while studying for her bachelor’s degree.

She tried the PhD route, found it wasn’t a good fit. She then went to med school.

“I went into residency with the intention of keeping an open mind,” she said. “I didn’t think I’d end up in ortho.”

Her mentor in medical school was a female hand surgeon.

The rest is history.

“I enjoy the variety of cases, from trigger finger to carpal tunnel treatment,” she said. “Then I can go to doing tendon transfers and other complex cases.”

She is no stranger to Tennessee. She grew up in Franklin, so this is like coming home for her.

“We are excited to have the capabilities of a hand and upper extremity surgeon join Cookeville Regional’s active staff roster,” said Paul Korth, Cookeville Regional CEO. “Dr. Taillac’s expertise will enhance the orthopedic services available here.”

When she’s not working on hands, shoulders and other upper extremities, she enjoys spending time with her husband, Nathan, their 14-month old child and her horse, George.

To set up an appointment with Dr. Taillac, call 931-526-9518.

To learn more about Cookeville Regional Medical Center, visit crmchealth.org and follow on all the social channels.