Joel Pierce, PT, DPT, ATC, CSCS, has been employed with South Central since 2004.  He graduated from the University of Southern Mississippi in 2002 with a Bachelor of Science in Sports Medicine and Athletic Training. In 2004, he graduated from the University of Mississippi Medical Center with a master’s in Physical Therapy. In 2010, he completed his Doctorate in Physical Therapy. Joel is a certified Athletic Trainer through NATABOC, and a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist through NSCA. His clinical practice primarily focuses on orthopaedic sports medicine rehabilitation, with special interests in the knee and shoulder. Joel is affiliated with the Jones County Junior College Athletic Department for rehabilitation of their post-surgical and injured athletes.  He is also involved in the development and program design of SCRMC’s SportsPerformance+ program focusing on athletic enhancement. He has served as the Certified Athletic Trainer for Laurel High School since 2005.