Duke Orthopaedic Surgery is happy to welcome Dr. Megan Kennelly to the Pediatric Orthopaedics Division as an assistant professor of orthopaedic surgery. She brings a unique combination of clinical expertise in pediatric rehabilitation medicine, a solid academic research background, and a strong dedication to interdisciplinary care for children with complex medical needs.
A native of Charlotte, North Carolina, Kennelly returns to her home state after completing a prestigious fellowship in Pediatric Rehabilitation Medicine at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center. She previously finished her residency in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at Atrium Health’s Carolinas Rehabilitation, where she served as Quality Improvement Chief Resident and led initiatives to improve care transitions and reduce preventable hospital readmissions.
Kennelly earned her medical degree from the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, where she was named a Neuroscience Scholar and received the Randall L. Braddom, MD Award for excellence in physical medicine and rehabilitation. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree with honors from the University of Notre Dame, where her early research focused on developing therapies for rare pediatric diseases.
Her scholarly work covers topics such as pediatric traumatic brain injury, attention disorders, and transitional care models. She has published multiple peer-reviewed articles in journals including JAMA Pediatrics and the American Journal of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. She has presented nationally on pediatric disorders of consciousness, spinal cord infarcts, and quality improvement in rehabilitation care.
Kennelly is also a dedicated educator and mentor. She has overseen research programs for medical students and given lectures on various pediatric rehabilitation topics, including cerebral palsy mimics, pediatric disorders of consciousness, and the benefits of summer camps for children with chronic medical conditions.
Q&A with Dr. Kennelly
Q: What brings you joy?
A: Now that we’re back in North Carolina, my husband and I are enjoying reconnecting with family and friends in the area. We also love trying new restaurants, visiting breweries, and exploring local festivals. Notre Dame football wins, when they happen, also bring a lot of joy.
Professionally, I first discovered pediatric rehabilitation medicine during college while working at a summer camp for children with chronic health conditions. I was drawn to this field immediately and fell in love with the patient population. My greatest joy comes from partnering with families to help children reach their full potential.
Q: What excites you about this role at Duke Ortho?
A: Pediatric rehabilitation is truly a team sport. We work closely with various specialties, and I’m especially excited to collaborate within the Duke system, where there is a strong network of expertise and support for children and families.
Q: Where do you see your area of pediatric orthopaedics going in the next 5–10 years?
A: Pediatric rehabilitation is a rapidly growing field, and expanding access nationwide will remain a key focus. Here at Duke, I’m hopeful that we can continue to build our pediatric rehabilitation presence. With the creation of NC Children’s in the coming years, I believe our resources, collaboration, and ability to serve children across North Carolina will expand significantly."
Please join us in welcoming Dr. Kennelly to Duke Orthopaedics. We are thrilled to have her on our team and look forward to the expertise, compassion, and innovation she brings to our pediatric patients and their families.