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John Keel

John Keel, MD

4.5538 ratings

Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

Telehealth Visits Available
Online Booking
Need help scheduling? Call (404) 778-7000

Highlights

Languages

  • English

About John Keel

Emory Affiliation

Emory Clinic - School of Medicine Faculty
Emory Healthcare Network
Emory Physician Group Practice

Academic Title

Assistant Professor

Year Started Practicing

2005

About the Provider

John C. Keel, M.D. attended Medical College of Georgia on scholarship, then completed PM&R residency at Emory University, where he served as Chief Resident. He completed interventional pain fellowship at Massachusetts General Hospital, and then held several faculty and clinical positions in the Harvard Medical School-affiliated Caregoup hospital system in Boston. Dr. Keel returned to Emory as a specialist in medical and interventional spine care.

Dr. Keel has publications including research articles in leading journals, book chapters, and web publications. He has been an NIH-funded principle investigator, invited speaker, and award-winning teacher. He holds board certifications in PM&R, Pain Medicine and Sports Medicine, and has certification in Electrodiagnostic Medicine. Dr. Keel is a decorated Lieutenant Colonel in the Air National Guard; he has recently served as a USAF Flight Surgeon in support of pararescue missions.

Interpretive Services

To provide the highest quality of care, interpreter services may be utilized to ensure proper communication of medical information for deaf, hard-of-hearing, and non-English speaking patients or family members.

Locations

  1. Emory Orthopaedics & Spine Center - Atlanta

Expertise

Education

  • Fellowship: Massachusetts General Hospital, Pain Medicine, 2008
  • Residency: Emory University School of Medicine, Physical Medicine & Rehab, 2005
  • Internship: Emory University School of Medicine, Medical Internship, 2002
  • Medical Education: Medical College of Georgia, MD, 2001

Ratings & Reviews

4.5 out of 5

538 ratings

The Patient Satisfaction Rating is an average of all responses to the care provider related questions shown below from our survey. Patients that are treated in outpatient or hospital environments may receive different surveys, and the volume of responses will vary by question.

Provider showed concern
Provider explained things clearly
Provider discussed treatment options
Provider included you in decisions
Likelihood of recommending this provider
Search reviews
    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 3/27/2026

    Provider answer all my questions and concerns. Made it clear he was available to address any future questions.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 3/24/2026

    Dr Keel took time to listen and to hear our concerns from my fracture to pain medication modifications to next logical steps - he's wonderful

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 3/20/2026

    Dr. Keel was outstanding. He asked me so many spot-on questions about my complex case, examined different body parts, helped me strategize a plan for treatment that allowed me to fulfilled my job requirements, listened attentively, and showed empathy. He was excellent.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 3/16/2026

    The experience was as good as could be expected

    2 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 3/3/2026

    Dr Keel seemed to have his mind made up not to proceed with a kyphoplasty procedure for my back. He did not do a good job of explaining to me why he felt that way.

    1 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 2/23/2026

    Dr Keel is more concerned with what insurance I have and the effect on his staff's than me as a patient.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 2/13/2026

    Very good!!

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 2/10/2026

    Dr. John Keel has always been accurate in diagnosing my orthopedic issues and prescribing the best course of treatment. Excellent.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 2/10/2026

    Good

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 2/2/2026

    I did not feel rushed and Dr. Keel wanted to help to say the least.

    3 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 1/13/2026

    Didn't discuss recent MRI, don't think it was available or reviewed before my appointment

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 1/13/2026

    Great

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 1/6/2026

    Dr Keel is a good listener. He takes time to listen to my concerns before starting a course of action. He is courteous and lets me take part in my treatment plan. Thanks

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 1/2/2026

    Dr Keel is one of the best. I've trusted him many years since I had an unfavorable experience with a spine surgery at another facility.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 12/16/2025

    Dr Keel listened to my complaint and understood the urgency of my concerns. He included me in the course of action

    2 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 12/16/2025

    Dr. K was very unfriendly and short. I wished I had never come but my primary care dr. Recommended the visit.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 12/12/2025

    Very good experience with Dr. John Keel

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 12/12/2025

    He listened to me and made sure I got what I needed.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 11/26/2025

    Dr Keel listened carefully to me, evaluated me, answered my questions and then helped me make an excellent plan for improvement.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 11/21/2025

    Great

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 11/18/2025

    Dr. Keel, was very engaged in my situation and offered some very helpful suggestions.

    1 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 11/4/2025

    Physician seemed to be in a hurry. Mostly focused on jotting down his notes. Didn't even ask how I was doing. A very businesslike "What can I do for you today?" This appointment was following through on my neurosurgeon's treatment directive to follow up with this doctor.Answers to my questions were very brief, with seemingly no interest in helping me to understand what was going on with my cervical and lumbar spine - which, according to the MRIs is a lot.I left feeling very dissatisfied with the "care" I had received. Felt more like a visit to my lawyer's office. I am not accustomed to that kind of healthcare treatment and will be seeking another spine physician

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 11/2/2025

    Superb interaction with all concerned

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 11/1/2025

    As always -professional and informative

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 10/19/2025

    Dr. Keel is an excellent Dr. In everything he does. Emory is lucky to have him as a part of their medical team.

    3 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 10/5/2025

    Did not give accurate description of postop expectations and care. Said to resume previous activities and everywhere else I read said to limit activity. Resumed activities and had a lot of pain was then told to limit activities.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 9/28/2025

    I was very impressed with the doctor. He listened carefully and thoughtfully discussed my issues with me. I am so happy he is my doctor for this.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 9/27/2025

    Dr Keel was understanding and showed empathy towards the pain I was in. He recommended another epidural which I was able to get the next day.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 9/4/2025

    Dr Keel was very good at discussing my Procedure .

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 9/1/2025

    I have no doubt that Dr. Keel knows all available options to resolve my health issue, and I trust him to perform the necessary procedures. I trust him.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 8/29/2025

    Dr. Keel was very helpful and explained things clearly.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 8/19/2025

    Dr. Keel came in a 2nd to see me. I had questions after I saw him the first time. I appreciate that he took the time to come back in the room so I could ask additional questions. I was very impressed that he took the time to come back & see me a 2nd time!!

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 8/17/2025

    Professional and personable

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 8/9/2025

    Dr John Keel very thorough with explanation of my recent MRI and diagnosis. And future plan.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 7/26/2025

    Dr Keel listened to my explanation as to what was causing my pain and discomfort and advised me what the next step was.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 7/26/2025

    Great service!

    3 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 7/21/2025

    Dr. Keel never had my file available to discuss and didn't pull it on the screen. Was actually confused as to why I was there and I had to remind him we were to here to do a follow-up and discuss X-rays taken previous week. He never pulled up the results, we didn't discuss them other than to say (I think) that the issue was a result of arthritis. He hadn't looked at my basic record or medical history and recommended a drug that is listed on my record that I am allergic to which again indicates he did not look at my record before the visit for preparation or during. I left with orders for PT but no understanding as to what should be gained from going and what I should expect.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 7/11/2025

    Dr Keel very professional, and a very good doctor.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 7/7/2025

    Dr. Keel was extremely thorough and clear in communication. Pertinent questions were asked, helpful responses to my answers were given as well as names, explanations, and time-lines provided for needed further tests. In fact, an on-site test was ordered and followed by test interpretation and an order placed for a needed follow-up test.

    3 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 6/28/2025

    Never on time. Almost always an hour late

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 6/26/2025

    Dr, Keel listened to my update and informed me of my options for further nerve blocks if needed, also advised me on a medication question. And was very approachable.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 6/24/2025

    Listen to my concerns and help come up with a plan for my care Dr . Keel

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 6/14/2025

    Good

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 5/9/2025

    Dr. Keel is an excellent doctor.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 4/20/2025

    Outstanding. Dr. Keel is a complete professional. He is concerned about the care and comfort of his patients.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 4/10/2025

    Never a problem!!

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 4/8/2025

    The mychart explanations were a little confusing

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 3/30/2025

    Outstanding

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 3/11/2025

    Dr Peel was great

    4 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 3/4/2025

    Good

    3 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 2/28/2025

    I was not heard by the doctor. Things were not explained were I could understand. I was not provide knowledge based on my current conditions and given knowledge to proceeding forward. It was not helpful in the goal for treatment

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 2/15/2025

    Superb service

    4 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 1/30/2025

    After my 30 minute wait, I had 10 minutes with Dr. Keel. He was matter of fact.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 1/25/2025

    Superb service

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 1/20/2025

    Excellent rapport. Through comprehensive examination. Detailed prognosis for future treatment.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 1/18/2025

    Dr. Keel had obviously reviewed my chart which helps greatly.

    4 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 1/18/2025

    Again I was not happy about the long wait. In fact, I was very frustrated and disappointed.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 12/12/2024

    Dr. Keel was very attentive, asked excellent questions, and listened. He was very contemplative when trying to find my problem. He referred back to my tests to see if he could find answers and gave a plan he thought we needed to do.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 12/6/2024

    Dr. Keel explained the procedure completely and discussed the after effects that would probably occur. He was very thorough.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 11/26/2024

    Dr Keel and staff were helpful and knowledgeable

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 11/13/2024

    Very knowledgeable and explained my situation in a way that I understood. Also a gentleman in his special way.

    4 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 10/18/2024

    While I trust Dr Keel explicitly with my care he is a msn of very few words

    4 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 9/24/2024

    All good!

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 9/18/2024

    Dr Keel is very knowledgeable experienced thorough caring and explained everything

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 9/14/2024

    Very caring and professional Dr Keel

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 9/14/2024

    Very good experience. Very pleasant.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 9/14/2024

    Dr. Keel was very informative, and showed a high level of knowledge with my very new issue that was very concerning to me. He explained everything and I feel confident that I am in the best care.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 9/7/2024

    Dr was excellent. Made The visit very simple And helpful

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 8/31/2024

    Very good

    2 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 7/26/2024

    I would give it another try, however, first impressions are very difficult to forget. The facility seems to be very technologically advanced, but, it needs to pay particular attention to service options. First, it's a cashless facility and not everyone has access to credit/debit/computer options. I know this because as a member of the government for over 22 years, I am very aware of this. Secondly, screening procedures should be taken prior to patients arriving at the facility. If I had known to bring my imaging results with me, trust me I would have so that I could have better assistance and a plan in action, because like I stated, not everyone can afford to pay a ton of co-pays just to be seen for 10 mins and told that they need to reschedule their appointment. Screen, screen, screen....

    3 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 7/26/2024

    As far as recommending just meet I need too see on the next visit

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 7/21/2024

    Good

    2 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 7/14/2024

    Dr Keel didn't seem prepared for my appointment. He asked first about a very minor concern. He seemed not to remember my primary concern but glanced at his notes and fumbled for something to say. At my initial visit I left feeling like he listened and had a plan. This visit was the opposite. I left without making a follow up appointment and will not be returning for care from Dr Keel.

    1 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 7/12/2024

    Text upon arrival promising to keep us informed. Nurse moves us to a room took vitals and went ghost. Dr. Keel walks in ignores the elephant in the room as asked how can I help you. My wife and I left disappointed. I have find another Dr

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 7/12/2024

    Dr. Keel Is easy to talk with.

    2 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 7/9/2024

    My Questions were answered brusquely and without a sign of empathy. The doc seemed affronted that I had asked various post procedure questions yesterday; he had not seen me or communicated. With me post proc AT ALL

    2 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 6/28/2024

    He was to go over the 2 MRI's with me but never did so. He didn't even know about the MRI'S

    1 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 6/14/2024

    Dr. Keel stated that I may not have as many disc herniations and that since I was involved in an accident and dealing with a lawyer, the scans may have been over read. He also stated that I could just be experiencing whiplash, not pain from significant disc herniations. These statements were made before the doctor has even had a chance to view the mri photos and report. Completely downplayed my injuries without even knowing what they were. 0/10 would not recommend.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 6/13/2024

    Kind good listener

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 5/17/2024

    Good experience

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 5/10/2024

    He is excellent

    4 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 5/10/2024

    Until recently the only complaint I had with Dr. Keel in particular was that he didn't seem to be as warm as he was when I first became his patient in 2017. However, at this last follow up appointment he was more like he used to be.

    2 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 5/3/2024

    The visit with the doctor lasted less than 12 minutes. He did not seem to get much joy out of his job. As a surgeon myself I know when you no longer get enjoyment out of your work its a tough profession.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 5/3/2024

    I really liked Dr. Keel and appreciated how he listened to me.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 4/26/2024

    Am very satisfied with my doctor He truly cares he us very professional

    2 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 4/23/2024

    Dr. Keel seemed to have a difficult time transitioning from military to civilian demeanor. He was very short, disconnected, and offer very few details about my concerns. He didn't review my MRI disc that I brought in to discuss with him, but he said that he had. When I checked Mychart, there were no reviews. I want be using this doctor again. He shows no empathy. He wants to get you in and out as quickly as he can. He didn't even explain the procedure that he would be giving me EPI. The nurse explained it the best she could, but could not answer some of my questions. :(

    4 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 4/20/2024

    Good