UP Health System – Marquette is pleased to welcome board-certified neurosurgeon Nathan Esplin, MD, to its Brain and Spine Center. He provides specialized care for a wide range of neurological and spinal conditions, with clinical interests in spine surgery, cranial surgery and neuromodulation.

Dr. Esplin earned his medical degree from the University of Central Florida College of Medicine. He completed his undergraduate studies at Southern Utah University, earning a Bachelor of Science in history with a minor in biology.

He is passionate about delivering high-quality, patient-centered care and is committed to helping individuals navigate complex neurological conditions with both technical expertise and heartfelt compassion. He chose to pursue neurosurgery because of the specialty’s unique ability to support patients during some of the most critical and challenging moments of their lives.

“People often meet a neurosurgeon on one of the hardest days they’ve ever had,” Dr. Esplin said. “It’s deeply rewarding to support patients and their families during those moments—whether we’re working toward healing, relief or helping them find comfort and peace. That’s what drew me to this field, and it continues to drive me every day.”

At UP Health System – Marquette, the neurosurgery team works alongside neurologists, neuroradiologists and neuropsychologists to provide comprehensive care for the prevention, diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation of brain and spine conditions.

“Dr. Esplin brings a strong, compassionate skill set that enhances the care we’re able to provide in our region,” said Tonya Darner, market chief executive officer of UP Health System – Marquette and UP Health System – Bell. “His addition strengthens our commitment to being a regional leader in neurological care and expands access to specialized services right here in the Upper Peninsula (UP).”

Dr. Esplin was drawn to the UP for both professional and personal reasons.

“The UP is an ideal place to raise a family. It offers a strong sense of community, great schools and access to everything we love outdoors,” he said. “Hunting, fishing, mountain biking, being in nature—this area offers an incredible quality of life, and I’m excited to build a life here with my family.”

Outside of medicine, Dr. Esplin enjoys upland bird hunting with his dogs, fly fishing, mountain biking with his children and supporting their athletic pursuits. He also practices violin making and woodworking and is a passionate home chef with a love for coffee and mixology.

Dr. Esplin joins neurosurgeon Sonia Geschwindt, MD; Elizabeth Hogan, MD; and Stefanie Little, NP, at the Brain and Spine Center at UP Health System – Marquette, located at 850 W. Baraga Ave., Suite 31. He will see patients in Marquette, Hancock and Newberry.

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Esplin, call 906.449.3620 or visit UPHealthSystem.com/brain-and-spine. To better understand your current spine health, take our free online risk assessment at UPHealthSystem.com/health-risk-assessment/spine-health.