Matthew Grierson, MD
Physiatrist (Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Physician)
About Dr. G.
Dr. Grierson specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of musculoskeletal injuries, including the care of dancers and performing artists.
Meet Your Physiatrist
Dr. Matthew Grierson is dedicated to helping patients achieve their functional goals through a team-based, personalized approach to care. He is board-certified in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation and holds the Registered in Musculoskeletal Sonography (RMSK) certification, using ultrasound to diagnose and treat musculoskeletal conditions. With advanced training in electrodiagnostic medicine, fluoroscopic-guided spinal injections, and ultrasound-guided muscle, joint, and tendon procedures, he specializes in orthobiologic treatments like platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ECSWT) to promote healing.
Dr. Grierson earned his medical degree from Boston University and completed his residency in physical medicine and rehabilitation at the University of Washington, where he served as Chief Resident. He then pursued a fellowship in sports medicine at the University of Washington. Before medical school, he studied modern dance at the University of Utah, drawing from his own experiences with dance-related injuries to better understand the functional impact of movement and recovery.
Beyond his specialty in performing arts medicine, Dr. Grierson is committed to treating patients of all ages, abilities, and activity levels. He also works to advance healthcare policy through leadership roles with the American Medical Association, Washington State Medical Association, and King County Medical Society.
Dr. Grierson serves as a consulting physician for the Pacific Northwest Ballet and Whim W’him Contemporary Dance and works with countless freelance artists in the Seattle area. As a co-founder of a local non-profit (Seattle Dance and Performing Arts Medicine – SeaPAM), he helps provide care to performing artists who might otherwise lack access. He is currently serving as President-Elect (2025-2027) for the International Association for Dance Medicine & Science.
Our Little Clinic Within a Clinic
- Dr. Grierson leads the Seattle Clinic for Performing Artists (COPA) at Sound Spine and Joint Physicians, providing expert care for dancers, musicians, actors, and other performing artists at all levels. His goal is to help injured artists recover and return to peak performance as quickly and safely as possible.
- Dr. Grierson collaborates with a network of top specialists in the Seattle area, including physical and occupational therapists, nutritionists, mental health professionals, chiropractors, massage therapists, acupuncturists, and more. He is also well-connected with performing arts medicine clinics worldwide—ensuring that artists can receive high-quality care even when on tour or out of town.
- Recognizing that each performer’s needs are unique, Dr. Grierson provides a precise diagnosis and a personalized treatment plan to support recovery and long-term performance health.
- 📅 Appointments: When calling to schedule, please identify yourself as a performing artist so we can prioritize your appointment. We look forward to helping you perform at your best!
Dr. Grierson has been a part of the medical team with the Seattle Seawolves (Major League Rugby) since their inaugural 2018 season, during which they captured back-to-back championships and have appeared in four MLR finals. He also brings international experience as a match day physician for World Rugby events held in the US and Canada.
Outside of work, Dr. Grierson enjoys hiking and skiing in the mountains and indulging his creative side by baking decadent desserts. He spends much of his free time hanging out with Oliver and Nico, his two very hungry (and very busy) pugs.
Areas of Practice
01
EMG/Nerve Conduction Studies
Provides precise testing to identify nerve and muscle conditions contributing to pain, weakness, or numbness.
02
Shockwave Therapy
Uses focused acoustic waves to stimulate healing in chronic tendon, muscle, and ligament injuries.
03
Diagnostic MSK Ultrasound
Offers real-time imaging to guide diagnosis and precision-based treatment.
04
Spine Injections
Delivers targeted medication to reduce inflammation, relieve pain, and improve mobility.
05
Prolotherapy
Stimulates the body’s natural repair process by injecting targeted solutions that strengthen tendons and ligaments.
06
PRP & BMAC
Uses your body’s own growth factors to promote healing of soft tissue and joint injuries.
Our Amazing Team
Meet the people who make your care personal, precise, and seamless.
Kailyn
Clinical Assistant
Our clinical assistants, Kailyn and Jordan, support every step of your visit—from preparation to follow-up—with professionalism and kindness.
Jordan
Clinical Assistant
You’ll meet Kailyn and Jordan during your visits—they help with exams, procedures, and patient communication to keep your care seamless.
Julie
Billing Specialist
Julie is your go-to for billing and insurance questions—she keeps everything running smoothly behind the scenes.
Candice
Scheduling
Candice keeps our clinic running smoothly, coordinating scheduling and virtual communications with warmth and precision.