About the Surgeon

Hello! My name is Dr. Craig J. Wilson, and it’s my privilege to support you on your journey toward better health and mobility. I’m a partner at Great Plains Orthopaedics and work full-time in Galesburg, Illinois, where I perform surgeries and care for patients at St. Mary’s Medical Center.

A man in scrubs and a hospital cap washing his hands in a clinical wash basin in a hospital corridor.

I was born and raised right here in Galesburg and graduated from Galesburg High School. My passion for orthopedic surgery began after a knee injury during high school wrestling, which gave me firsthand experience of how compassionate, skilled care can change someone’s life.

After earning my bachelor’s degree from Augustana College and my medical degree from Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, I completed my orthopedic surgery residency at SIU, where I served as Chief Resident. I’m board certified by the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery and specialize in joint replacement surgery, arthroscopic procedures, fracture care, and musculoskeletal health optimization.

What motivates me most is seeing patients regain mobility, reduce pain, and get back to doing what they love. I believe great outcomes come from teamwork — between patient, surgeon, and the entire care team. That’s why I created this website: to give you practical tools, education, and guidance for a smooth and confident recovery journey.

Patient Resources
A family of five standing by a lake with a fountain, smiling and holding hands. The family includes a man, a woman, two young girls, and a young boy. The family is dressed in formal attire, with the children in matching brown dresses and the boy in a white shirt with a red tie.

Outside the Operating Room

When I’m not in the hospital or clinic, you’ll often find me coaching my son’s soccer team at the Knox County YMCA, helping kids build skills, teamwork, and confidence on the field. On Sunday mornings, you can catch me at The Ascent Church, or spending time outdoors with my family.

I enjoy going on walks with my wife and kids around our neighborhood or out on the trails at Lake Storey — it’s one of our favorite ways to unwind and connect. When time allows, I like to drop into classes at WigWag CrossFit for a great sweat session, and I’m always up for a challenge that keeps me moving.

I also enjoy deer hunting, golfing, and finding quiet moments in nature to recharge — though with three young kids, those moments are rare and precious!

Thank you for taking the time to learn more about me. Whether you’re here to explore treatment options, prepare for surgery, or learn how to stay active, I’m honored to be part of your care journey.

Warm regards,
Craig J. Wilson, MD

Orthopaedic Surgeon – Partner, Great Plains Orthopaedics
Serving patients full-time in Galesburg at St. Mary’s Medical Center

Medical professionals in surgical gowns and masks performing a procedure in an operating room with surgical lights overhead.

Credentials

Board Certification
American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery

Education
Residency | 2015–2020
Southern Illinois University School of Medicine — Orthopedic Surgery, Chief Resident

Medical School | 2011–2015
Southern Illinois University School of Medicine — Doctor of Medicine
Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society

Undergraduate | 2007–2011
Augustana College — Biology and Pre-Medicine

Learn more

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