Edward J. Lairson, MD

When dealing with a patient’s neck and back pain, Dr. Ed Lairson knows right where to start. “My approach is to listen first,” he says. “You can glean much from the patient’s story and word choices to arrive at a diagnosis from their history. Over time I have realized one treatment does not fit the same ailment.”

Those treatments range from stretching programs, medication, or injections to referrals for physical therapy, chiropractic care, acupuncture, or surgery. Dr. Lairson’s end goal lies in helping patients to relieve, lessen, or manage their pain. “I am pragmatic,” he says. “The keys to a successful relationship with a patient are honesty, trust, and realistic expectations.”

Raised in Southwest Portland and a graduate of University of Oregon, Dr. Lairson went to medical school at Oregon Health Sciences University. He did his residency in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at the University of Cincinnati.

Dr. Lairson was named a Top Doctor by Portland Monthly Magazine in 2025 and 2026, recognizing his expertise in orthopedics and patient care.