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Syed M. Zaffer, M.D.

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My passion is to improve the quality of life of my patients by offering them evidence-based treatment choices to better manage their pain and functional limitations.

Dr. Zaffer is fellowship-trained and board certified in physical medicine and rehabilitation by the American Board of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation and in electromyography by the American Board of Neuromuscular and Electrodiagnostic Medicine. Additionally, he is Board certified as an independent medical examiner by the American Board of Independent Medical Examiners.
A physiatrist with more than 22 years of pain management and rehabilitation experience, Dr. Zaffer utilizes his extensive knowledge to educate patients about the options available, including treatment with non-surgical and interventional pain techniques.

Prior to joining Florida Orthopaedic Institute, Dr. Zaffer was the medical director of a private practice in outpatient physical medicine and rehabilitation as well as in electrodiagnostic medicine. He has focused on treating patients with physiatric conditions for over 16 years. As an expert in the field of pain medicine, electrodiagnostic medicine & rehabilitation, Dr. Zaffer has lectured on topics pertaining to Physical Medicine techniques, EMG, and treatment for rehabilitation patients. Dr. Zaffer has authored articles in the American Journal of Physical Medicine and the Clinical Journal of Sports Medicine, along with clinical research studies in neuropathy and sclerosis.

Dr. Zaffer studied medicine at Osmania University in India and pursued his passion for physical medicine and rehabilitation at Indiana University. He was an attending physician at the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago/ Northwestern University and at Loyola University Medical Center in the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation. Dr. Zaffer is a member of the American Academy of Neuromuscular & Electrodiagnostic Medicine, the American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, and the American Society of Bariatric Physicians.

In his free time, Dr. Zaffer enjoys spending time with his family, hiking, and reading.

**Accepting Workers’ Compensation

Testimonials

Dr. Zaffer has a wonderful bedside manner! He has a very calm voice that makes you feel at ease! It was a wonderful experience!

Diane L.

Dr. Zaffer has been a true blessing. He listened and worked with me to manage my pain after 2 Achilles reconstruction surgeries within less than a year. Highly recommend.

Latanya H.

I recently saw Dr. Zaffer for an NCS and EMG. Dr. Zaffer explained both of these tests to me and was very courteous and asked how I was doing throughout. Dr. Zaffer’s staff was polite and friendly and my visit was a positive one.

Madelyn K.

I was sent by my surgeon to this particular location for an EMG Test. I was scheduled to see Dr. Zaffer for this procedure. Dr. Zaffer was great and explained everything as he went along.

Laura M.

Dr. Zaffer was in his element as he exercised his expertise in addressing my situation. He communicated with me and explained the process and what to expect. He made sure I was comfortable asking sporadically if I was okay. As always FOI continues to demonstrate total and complete professionalism.

Lascelles D.

Nerve conduction studies can be a shocking experience, but Dr. Zaffer made it pleasant and easy. Thank you.

Kendall D.

Dr. Zaffer was very professional. Two very important factors about Dr. Zaffer were that he was on time and during my procedure, he was very thorough with explaining exactly what he was doing and what I would be experiencing in a way I could easily comprehend. Was very impressed with both the office and especially the doctor. Thank you, Florida Orthopaedic Institute, for all the professionals you hire, not just the doctors, but also the office staff, etc.

Regina C.

Dr. Zaffer has been amazing. I came to him two years ago. He isolated the multiple issues with my foot and referred me for post trauma surgery on my foot. I have had two surgeries and am now being treated for neuropathy. He has been encouraging throughout all the pain and long recovery. If not for his patience and care I would still be struggling with chronic pain syndrome which I have had for four years.

Cheryl H.

Dr. Zaffer is a great doctor. He takes his time and answers all questions we might have. So far, there has not been much of a wait time to be seen. We are usually in and out within an hour.

Healthgrades Review

Dr. Zaffer has been my pain management physician for about two years. I have had two back surgeries and a full shoulder replacement reversal surgery. I absolutely could not have gotten through these surgeries without his help and expertise. He is professional, listens to his patients’ situations and gives them encouragement and hope to be able to live a better way of life through his knowledge and treatment. I truly value and recommend Dr. Zaffer.

Evalon B.

A blessing to have Dr. Zaffer as part of my team of doctors at Florida Orthopaedic Institute for the last two years. Thanks!

K. Orthner

Doctor Zaffer is the best!

UCompareHealthcare Review

If I could give him six stars, I would! I was courteously greeted when I entered the office and was seen shortly after arrival at each visit which made me feel that my time was valuable. Dr. Zaffer LISTENED to me and explored my issue. He worked WITH me to determine my plan of care. My pain is finally under control because of our TEAM effort. This practice should be a model for other offices! Thank you!

Mary

“Dr. Zaffer is a great doctor who listens and treats you like a person, not just another medical case. I really appreciate him.”

Patient Survey

Credentials

  • Fellowship, Electromyography/Neuromuscular Diseases, Cleveland Clinic Foundation
  • Residency, Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Indiana University School of Medicine
  • Transitional Internship, Indiana University School of Medicine/Community Hospital
  • Medical Degree, Deccan College of Medical Sciences, Osmania University, Hyderabad, India

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