Our Physicians
Brian J. Bear, MD
Subspecializes in: Upper Extremity

Welcome to Rockford Orthopedic!
I would like to take this opportunity to tell you more about myself and my experience in healthcare. Originally from Winnetka, Illinois, I attended Northwestern University graduating in 1987, cum laude, president of Mortar Board Senior Honor Society and a member of Phi Betta Kappa. I continued my studies at Northwestern University School of Medicine, receiving my medical degree in 1991 as a member of Alpha Omega Alpha honor society.
Following my graduation, I pursued advanced orthopedic training at Cornell Hospital for Special Surgery, which is ranked as the top orthopedic hospital in the United States. In addition, I completed a specialized training fellowship program in elbow and hand surgery at the Mayo Clinic.
My practice is focused on shoulder, elbow, hand, microvasular, traumatic, and reconstructive surgery.
It is my mission to provide you compassionate care with expertise comparable to any major university center.
I am actively involved in continuing education, have given numerous lectures, and published many orthopedic articles. As Associate Clinical Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery at the University of Illinois College of Medicine, I have been awarded the Golden Apple teaching award and the Excellence in Teaching award. I am currently a faculty member at the Orthopedic Learning Center where I teach other surgeons the latest techniques of hand, elbow and shoulder surgery.
When not practicing medicine, I enjoy spending time with my family, jogging, weight training, fishing and music. Please let me know if there is anything I can do to further improve your experience at Rockford Orthopedic. My goal is to provide you the best medical care available.
I am looking forward to meeting with you.
Education and Training
- Undergraduate, Northwestern University, 1987
- Medical Degree, Northwestern University, 1991
- Orthopedic Surgery Residency, Cornell Hospital for Special Surgery, 1996
- Shoulder, Elbow, Hand and Microvascular Surgery Fellowship, Mayo Clinic
- Board certified by the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery, 1999
- Member:
- American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons
- American Society for Surgery of the Hand
- Chicago Medical Society
- Illinois State Medical Society
- Illinois Association of Orthopaedic Surgeons
- Mid-America Orthopaedic Association
- Winnebago County Medical Society
- Chicago Hand Society Clinical Associate Professor, UIC of Medicine, Rockford
Assisted by:
Jimmy Walker, PA-C

At Rockford Orthopedic, we utilize a team approach that allows for the highest quality service and treatment. An integral part of the team is Jimmy Walker, PA-C. As a physician assistant (PA), Jimmy is an extension of my care and is highly trained to provide many office services as well as assist me in surgical procedures. From your first visit to the completion of your treatment you will be seen by me or Jimmy. We work together to offer a comprehensive evaluation and treatment plan to return you quickly to a healthy, active lifestyle.