Richard C. Sims, MD: Interventional Pain Management Physician at The Orthopedic Clinic

Dr. Richard C. Sims is a Board-Certified Interventional Pain Management Physician at The Orthopedic Clinic (TOC), where he’s redefining what compassionate, effective care looks like for injured workers.

When asked to share a bit about himself, Dr. Sims smiles and says, “I’m a family man first.” With three young boys at home and a love for music—he’s a self-taught pianist and organist—his days are full both inside and outside the clinic. But it’s this balance that keeps him grounded and focused.

His inspiration? “Helping my patients improve their quality of life while avoiding major surgery. That’s what drives me,” he shares. “Seeing them regain functionality, return to work, or simply live with less pain—it’s incredibly fulfilling.” If he had to sum himself up in three words, Dr. Sims chooses: trustworthy, dependable, caring.

“Those are the qualities I look for in a physician myself, and it’s the baseline I hold myself to.”

Though he completed his training only a few years ago, Dr. Sims entered the medical field with a deep understanding of its long-standing challenges. His approach is grounded and refreshingly straightforward: “I take my patients at their word. Unless I have a reason not to, I trust their experience and do everything I can to help them get back to baseline efficiently and safely.”

His philosophy in treating injured workers is centered on clear communication, conservative care, and collaborative planning. “Pain management in workers' comp is often labeled as a ‘black hole,’” he explains. “My goal is to change that narrative by offering structured, evidence-based treatment that moves patients forward—not in circles.”

What makes his practice unique is the level of integrated care. “I work closely with a team of exceptional orthopedic surgeons, including specialists in spine care. We share notes, review imaging together, and make fast, unified decisions about each patient’s treatment plan. That kind of teamwork eliminates delays and confusion.”

Dr. Sims also credits the dedicated Workers’ Compensation Coordinators at TOC for ensuring clear and ongoing communication. “They are a vital part of the process, helping everyone stay informed—from the patient to the employer to the adjuster. Our whole system is designed to get people better and back to work as smoothly as possible.”

Outside the clinic, Dr. Sims appreciates the structure of interventional pain management—no nights or weekends—which allows him to stay present with his family and recharge for the week ahead.

As a final word to those in the workers’ comp world, Dr. Sims shares, “This system isn’t always easy to navigate. But having your care team under one roof—pain management and surgery—means faster coordination, more continuity, and ultimately, better outcomes.”

To learn more or connect with Dr. Sims and the TOC team, call 386-944-1068 or email workcomp@orthotoc.com. You can also visit www.orthotoc.com to explore more about their services and impact in the workers’ compensation space.