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James R. Jastifer, MD

Orthopedic Foot & Ankle Surgeon

James Jastifer

Specialties

Locations

Biography

Dr. James “Jim” Jastifer is an orthopedic surgeon focused on treating foot and ankle issues. He provides care for sports injuries, pain, reconstruction, replacements and lower extremity fractures.

The doctor joined OSMC in 2025, coming from Ascension Borgess Hospital in Kalamazoo, where he was Chief of the Department of Orthopedic Surgery and a surgeon.

Dr. Jastifer earned his biomedical engineering degree from Michigan Technological University, and medical degree from Michigan State University College of Human Medicine. His orthopedic surgery residency was at Western Michigan University School of Medicine and Michigan State University Kalamazoo Center for Medical Studies. He then completed a foot and ankle surgical fellowship under the direction of renowned surgeon Dr. Michael Coughlin at Saint Alphonsus Foot and Ankle Clinic in Boise, Idaho.

He has held academic teaching and clinical appointments at his related universities, offering teaching and instruction in both engineering and orthopedic surgery. Dr. Jastifer has written and co-written over 50 peer reviewed publications and given over 60 conference presentations on orthopedic topics.

Dr. Jastifer is a Fellow with the American Board of Orthopedic Surgery. Since 2016, he has held status as a Board-Certified Orthopedic Surgeon.

Away from OSMC, the doctor enjoys spending time with his wife and sons. He’s an enthusiastic marathon runner, and has completed more than 100 marathons and ultramarathons, including races that extend to 100-miles. He is pleased to join OSMC and its great culture of caring for patients.

Education

Medical – Michigan State University
Fellowship – Idaho Foot & Ankle Surgery Fellowship
Residency – Western Michigan Homer Stryker School of Medicine
Internship – Western Michigan Homer Stryker School of Medicine
Undergraduate – Michigan Technological University

Associations

American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons
American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society

Board Certifications

American Board of Orthopedic Surgery

Hospital Affiliations

Elkhart General Hospital
Memorial Hospital, South Bend
OSMC Outpatient Surgery Center, Elkhart
The Surgery Center of Granger, Granger

Patient Testimonials

I have seen Dr. Jastifer a couple of times now and have had amazing experiences each time. He recommended surgery for my mortans neuroma and took the time to explain everything to me. Didn’t make me feel pressured at all about having the surgery. Dr. Jastifer and his staff are all very friendly and understanding.

- SF

I had surgery in May on my foot and has improved my mobility greatly. I had numerous questions on my post surgery and was treated like a family member. Response was quick and informative. I recently had a concern with some swelling. I was seen the same day and put my concern to rest. Doctor and staff were well engaged and friendly.

- JS

My experience with this office is always top notch. Dr Jastifer is a great Orthopedic surgeon. He treats you with the the same respect you would expect anyone to treat you with. Especially when you are hurting. I’m so impressed by his professionalism, yet he speaks to you in a down to earth manner that you can understand everything he’s saying to you. A fantastic doctor and person all around.

- PM

I went to see Dr. Jastifer with a very complicated foot and ankle. He looked at my x-rays. He gave me the same diagnosis and treatment options as Cleveland Clinic had given me. When he found out I did not want to do surgery at this time. He did NOT pressure me into having surgery. He thought outside of the box and came up with a treatment plan to buy some time. I was very happy with his knowledge, compassion, and willingness to think outside of the box. I will definitely see him again.

- LM