John Keel Emory Faculty
John Keel Emory Faculty

John Keel, MD

Electrodiagnostic Medicine, Pain Medicine, Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Sports Medicine

4.5 - 534 Ratings

Emory Orthopaedics & Spine Center - Atlanta

21 Ortho Lane, Atlanta, GA 30329
Telehealth Visits Available

Availability within 14 days*

Book Online (404) 778-7000

About

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.

Languages

  • English

Emory Affiliation

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

Academic Title

  • Assistant Professor

Year Started Practicing

  • 2005

Locations

Similar providers at these locations

Ratings & Reviews

4.5 out of 5 overall rating 534 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.

4.6 Provider showed concern
4.5 Provider explained things clearly
4.5 Provider discussed treatment options
4.5 Provider included you in decisions
4.5 Likelihood of recommending this provider
5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2026-04-27

Exemplary service

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2026-04-24

Love Dr Keel. He listens and answers my questions. I feel like I won the lottery being assigned to him. Thank you

4 out of 5 Reviewed on 2026-04-04

As always, Dr Keel provided an excellent solution to my pain. I am practically pain - freee!

2 out of 5 Reviewed on 2026-03-31

The doctor seemed unhurried and unbothered. There was no warmth or empathy. I felt like a number on a chart, not a person in real pain.The physician demonstrated a lack of clinical urgency and showed minimal empathy toward the severity of my symptoms, leaving me feeling unheard and inadequately cared for.

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2026-03-27

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

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2026-03-24

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 Reviewed on 2026-03-20

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 Reviewed on 2026-03-16

The experience was as good as could be expected

2 out of 5 Reviewed on 2026-03-03

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 Reviewed on 2026-02-23

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 Reviewed on 2026-02-13

Very good!!

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2026-02-10

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

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2026-02-10

Good

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2026-02-02

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

3 out of 5 Reviewed on 2026-01-13

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

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2026-01-13

Great

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2026-01-06

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 Reviewed on 2026-01-02

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 Reviewed on 2025-12-16

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 Reviewed on 2025-12-16

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 Reviewed on 2025-12-12

Very good experience with Dr. John Keel

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-12-12

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

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-11-26

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 Reviewed on 2025-11-21

Great

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-11-18

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

1 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-11-04

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 Reviewed on 2025-11-02

Superb interaction with all concerned

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-11-01

As always -professional and informative

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-10-19

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 Reviewed on 2025-10-05

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 Reviewed on 2025-09-28

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 Reviewed on 2025-09-27

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 Reviewed on 2025-09-04

Dr Keel was very good at discussing my Procedure .

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-09-01

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 Reviewed on 2025-08-29

Dr. Keel was very helpful and explained things clearly.

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-08-19

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 Reviewed on 2025-08-17

Professional and personable

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-08-09

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

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-07-26

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 Reviewed on 2025-07-26

Great service!

3 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-07-21

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 Reviewed on 2025-07-11

Dr Keel very professional, and a very good doctor.

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-07-07

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 Reviewed on 2025-06-28

Never on time. Almost always an hour late

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-06-26

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 Reviewed on 2025-06-24

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

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-06-14

Good

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-05-09

Dr. Keel is an excellent doctor.

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-04-20

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

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-04-10

Never a problem!!

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-04-08

The mychart explanations were a little confusing

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-03-30

Outstanding

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-03-11

Dr Peel was great

4 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-03-04

Good

3 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-02-28

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 Reviewed on 2025-02-15

Superb service

4 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-01-30

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

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-01-25

Superb service

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-01-20

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

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-01-18

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

4 out of 5 Reviewed on 2025-01-18

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

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2024-12-12

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 Reviewed on 2024-12-06

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

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2024-11-26

Dr Keel and staff were helpful and knowledgeable

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2024-11-13

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

4 out of 5 Reviewed on 2024-10-18

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

4 out of 5 Reviewed on 2024-09-24

All good!

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2024-09-18

Dr Keel is very knowledgeable experienced thorough caring and explained everything

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2024-09-14

Very caring and professional Dr Keel

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2024-09-14

Very good experience. Very pleasant.

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2024-09-14

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 Reviewed on 2024-09-07

Dr was excellent. Made The visit very simple And helpful

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2024-08-31

Very good

2 out of 5 Reviewed on 2024-07-26

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 Reviewed on 2024-07-26

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

5 out of 5 Reviewed on 2024-07-21

Good

2 out of 5 Reviewed on 2024-07-14

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 Reviewed on 2024-07-12

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 Reviewed on 2024-07-12

Dr. Keel Is easy to talk with.

2 out of 5 Reviewed on 2024-07-09

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 Reviewed on 2024-06-28

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 Reviewed on 2024-06-14

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 Reviewed on 2024-06-13

Kind good listener

Credentials

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