About Dr. Gregory Drake
Shoulder-only specialist focused on accurate diagnosis, conservative treatment, and helping patients get back to the activities that matter.
A Commitment to Recovery
Dr. Gregory Drake’s path to orthopedic surgery started early. Growing up as one of 13 children, he saw firsthand how common injuries can impact daily life. From sports injuries to everyday accidents, those experiences shaped his commitment to helping people recover and get back to what they love.
Today, Dr. Gregory Drake focuses exclusively on shoulder care, with a strong emphasis on accurate diagnosis and conservative, non-surgical treatment whenever possible. His approach is thoughtful and measured, prioritizing the least invasive solution that will deliver the best long-term outcome. When surgery is necessary, he brings extensive experience in minimally invasive techniques, including rotator cuff repair, labral reconstruction, shoulder replacement, and fracture care.
Dr. Gregory Drake is dual fellowship trained in shoulder and elbow surgery and adult spinal reconstructive surgery. He graduated Magna Cum Laude from Rockhurst University and Summa Cum Laude from Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences. He completed his orthopedic residency as chief resident and has performed thousands of shoulder procedures.
Outside of the clinic, Dr. Gregory Drake is a dedicated husband and father of five. He spends much of his time on the sidelines of youth sports and enjoys being outdoors, whether that’s in the mountains, on the water, or on the golf course.
Why Shoulder-Only?
Specializing for precision, clarity, and better outcomes.
Why Specialize?
Dr. Gregory Drake focuses exclusively on shoulders because these cases are often more nuanced than they appear. Many patients come in after trying physical therapy or receiving conflicting diagnoses, and need a more precise evaluation.
Why are Shoulders Complex?
The shoulder relies on multiple structures working together, and different conditions can represent the same way. Imaging doesn’t always tell the full story, which is why diagnosis can be missed or delayed.
How Does Specialization Help?
A shoulder-only focus allows for more accurate diagnosis, better decision-making, and a clearer path forward—whether that means avoiding surgery or knowing when it’s truly the right option.
Specialties & Areas of Focus
Dr. Gregory Drake focuses exclusively on shoulder conditions, with an emphasis on accurate diagnosis and choosing the right treatment path for each patient. His work spans a wide range of injuries and conditions, from sports-related issues to chronic pain that hasn’t improved with prior treatment, helping patients get back to their daily activities with confidence.
Rotator cuff injuries
Shoulder instability/dislocations
Bicep tear
Reverse shoulder replacement
Non-surgical alternative treatments
Shoulder arthritis
Shoulder labral/SLAP tears
Total shoulder replacement
Frozen shoulder/adhesive capsulitis
Approach to Care
Dr. Gregory Drake’s approach starts with getting the diagnosis right. Shoulder conditions can be complex, and small differences matter, so the focus is on understanding the true cause of pain before deciding on treatment.
Care is typically conservative-first, using the least invasive option that will deliver the best outcome. When surgery is appropriate, it’s recommended clearly and thoughtfully—not as a default, but as the right next step.
Throughout the process, patients are guided through their options with clear explanations, so they can make confident, informed decisions about their care.
Education & Training
Dr. Gregory Drake completed his medical training at Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences, graduating Summa Cum Laude. He went on to complete his orthopedic residency, where he served as Chief Resident, gaining extensive experience in treating a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions.
Dual Fellowship Trained In:
Shoulder & Elbow Surgery
Adult Spinal Reconstructive Surgery
His spine fellowship allows him to provide clarity between cervical pathology and shoulder problems which often overlap causing poor diagnoses and inaccurate treatment.
Experience
Dr. Gregory Drake has over 15 years in practice, treating a wide range of shoulder conditions across all ages, from younger athletes with labral injuries to active adults managing rotator cuff issues and arthritis.
5,000+
Shoulder surgeries
5,000+
Yearly patient visits
This volume allows him to recognize patterns, refine diagnoses, and guide patients toward the most effective treatment path with confidence.
Hospitals Affiliations
Dr. Gregory Drake provides specialized shoulder care to patients across the northwest suburbs, including Elk Grove Village and Hoffman Estates. He is affiliated with several leading regional medical centers:
- Advocate Good Shepherd Hospital
- Ascension Alexian Brothers Medical Center
- Ascension Saint Alexius Medical Center
- Northwest Community Hospital
These affiliations allow patients access to advanced surgical care and hospital resources when needed.
Insurance Information
Level Up Shoulder works with many insurance providers. Commonly accepted plans include:
Additional plans may also be accepted. Because coverage can vary by plan and network, we recommend contacting the office to verify your insurance benefits prior to your appointment.
Learn More Common Shoulder Conditions and Treatments Directly from Dr. Gregory Drake
Shoulder Anatomy Explained by an Orthopedic Surgeon | Dr. Gregory Drake
Join Dr. Gregory Drake for a detailed breakdown of shoulder anatomy using a physical model. Learn about the deltoid, rotator cuff muscles, shoulder blade, labrum, cartilage, biceps tendon, ligaments, and key bony landmarks like the scapula, clavicle, and humerus. Perfect for anyone looking to understand how the shoulder works or preparing for treatment or surgery.