Dr. Stephen Dechter is a proud native of the Tri-Cities and is deeply honored to have the opportunity to return home and serve the community. Coming from a long line of educators, he has a profound passion for training the next generation of doctors. You will often find him accompanied by a medical student or two, sharing knowledge and fostering their growth.


Dr. Dechter's expertise in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, combined with Interventional Pain Management, equips him with a unique skill set. This allows him to offer patients alternative solutions beyond just medications or surgery. He takes pride in his ability to step back, view problems from different angles, and introduce fresh perspectives to treatment plans. His primary goals are to provide high-quality patient care, achieve excellent outcomes, reduce pain, restore function, and enhance the quality of life.


He is board certified by the American Board of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, with a subspecialty in Pain Medicine. He is also a fellow of the American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. Dr. Dechter completed his fellowship training in Pain Medicine at the University of California Los Angeles/VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System. He completed his residency at MetroHealth Medical Center/Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio, and attended medical school at Western University of Health Sciences/College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific in Pomona, CA. Additionally, he serves as adjunct faculty at Pacific Northwest University of Health Sciences, where he is the Tri-Cities Regional Dean Liaison and a Master Preceptor.


Dr. Dechter's special emphasis areas include sports medicine, spine and musculoskeletal interventional procedures, regenerative medicine techniques, neuromodulation, and spinal cord stimulation. In his free time, he enjoys staying active through fitness and nutrition, woodworking, spending time outdoors, engaging in medical education, and cherishing moments with his family.

Dr. Stephen Dechter in the community

Testimonials:

Dr. Decther, was a great doctor. He was very knowledgeable respectful and took my concerns serious. I would recommend this doctor to anyone who is needing a a Orthopedic.


--Salina B.



Our family has had nothing but great care with Dr McKay and Dr Dechter. We are really grateful for Benton Franklin Orthopedic Associates.


--Kat B.

Dr. Dechter was very nice& explained everything in detail.


Jennie C.

Dr Dechter is always prompt in dealing with items that need follow-up.


--Stephen F

Great place. Dr Decker is a great person to see. Their staff is very friendly.


--Lura A.

10/10 As soon as he came in to the room, I knew I made the right choice switching doctors. Dr. Stephen Dechter listens.


--Sydney L.

Dr Dechter has kept me from dealing with the worst of my back problems for years. Before 2019 my back was causing me to be laid up for days at a time sometimes with as little as 1 day between episodes. He has done RFA for my facet issues and kept me off my floor for years at a time since (had to retreat after 3 years and add additional areas as time has passed).


--Nathan C.

Dr. Dechter gave me a shot to ease the pain in my arm and shoulder due to a nerve problem, and it worked for about 1 month. I wished it had worked longer, but these things are kind of a guessing game and he was upfront with me saying that the shot could work for a short amount of time or forever. Just no way of knowing. I appreciated his honesty and liked his personality and good nature. He was pretty laid back and I would definitely recommend him.


--Hava K.

I always appreciate seeing the skillful doctors at Ben Franklin. I especially am happy to be able to get into see them quickly if needed. I don't have to wait long, especially with Dr. Dechter! He has a great personality and always helps me feel my problem is important.


--Carmeleta C.

I am forever thankful that I was referred to Dr. Dechter about 4 yrs. ago. At first I was a little hesitant about going to a new Dr. but after my initial visit all doubt was removed. I found a Dr. who was genuinely concerned with my medical situation and steps that could be taken to relieve my pain. Not everything worked as I had some extenuating circumstances that not only involved my back but both rotator cuffs and knees. Each situation was handled very professionally and with a personal commitment. When Dr. Dechter moved to Benton Franklin Orthopedic there was a feeling that it was a good situation for both of us. Dr. Dechter is not alone in my complements as the Staff there fron the front desk are always friendly, professional and concerned for my well being. This is also extended to High Desert Hospital where surgery is done. Again, the reception and service provided by all of that Staff is again very comforting/encouraging both to myself and my family - I am getting the best care possible. Their approach to their profession is directed to the individual and not how many patients you see each day. A refreshing approach from some of the Medical facilities in the area..


--Michael B.

We had an appointment with Dr Dechtel and he was very attentive and respectful to our concerns. The staff was friendly and we would definitely recommend this office.


--Bravo 1.

I saw Dr. Dechter for the first time this week. I was very impressed with his confidence and competence. I have seen several doctors trying to figure out my issues. He is the first one that has offered me any hope, and I am very excited to continue to see him.


--Luke D.

Dr. Dechter very understanding & knowledgeable!


--Debbie S.

Dr. Dechter has kept my neck pain at bay with injections. I have a healthy lifestyle but the pain was restricting my world so I'm glad his expertise has given me more mobility.


--Kat T.

Dr. Dechter is the best Orthopedic in the area. I recommend him and his practice to anyone struggling with chronic pain. They help improve the quality of life and bring back the abilities to help heal yourself.


--Amanda O.

Dr. Dechter was very helpful and informative.


--Rebecca C

Dr. Decter is very knowledgeable about my issue. I would highly recommend him. I have gotten relief from a 5 month headache from neck pain. I feel like I have gotten my life back again.


--Shelly F.

Dr. S. Dechter is very personable, fully understands the neurological and orthopedic aspects of the human body. Very clear and concise in explaining impairments related to the injury. Offers options not just opinions. Intelligent and down to earth. I would highly recommend his services.


--Dree D

Dr Dechert treated my left knee with cortisone and really helped me. I really appreciate his thoroughness.


--Gloria P.

I recently had the privilege of seeing Dr. Dechter for chronic knee pain that had been plaguing me for years. From the very first visit, it was evident that Dr. Dechter is a consummate professional. His knowledge and expertise in the field were apparent as he thoroughly examined my condition and suggested a multiple treatment options.

One suggestion Dr. Dechter made that proved to be a game-changer was Platelet-Rich Plasma therapy (PRP). The results have been nothing short of remarkable! The knee pain that had plagued me for years has significantly diminished, allowing me to resume my active lifestyle with renewed vigor.

I can confidently say that I wholeheartedly recommend Dr. Dechter to anyone struggling with similar issues. His professionalism, knowledge, and genuine concern for his patients distinguish him as an outstanding physician.


--Tatiana N.

Dr. Dechter and his staff are awesome! Dr. Dechter listens with with compassion and intent, he also speaks to you with compassion, intent and in great detail. His nurse Heather is amazing!!


--Jennae w.

Excellent. No waiting time to see Dr. Dechter. Explained what had happened and why I had to go to ER. He knew about it and reviewed the two areas of concern I had and made some suggestions to follow. I am seeing him for follow up later. It is nice to know his interest and concern for my medical issues.


I had only about 5 minutes wait to see him. I feel to have had Dr. Dechter for as long as I have. He is very knowledgeable, concerned about my health, professional but very friendly. I have recommended him to several of my friends. Wish all Doctors were like him.


--Mike B.

Doctor Dechter is a great doctor he's done real. Well, everything's working. Everything feels good and he is a super nice person. Very pleasant to work with and to talk to.


--Dave P.

DR Dechter always has the patient well being at the top of his priority. He always listens to me and is willing to help reduce/eliminate painful areas. Pays attention to patient.


--William U.

Dr Dechter is very professional but also very caring. The front office gals and nurses are also friendly and caring. I have also gone to Dr Sherfey and he is very good and caring also.


--Dee R.

Front Office staff is pleasant. Dr Dechter is informative, easy to talk to and the staff in the back is great as well. This is my first time in the office . Had a little bit of a wait but that can easily happen as urgent issues can pop up.


--Laura B.

Dr Dechter was amazing. He.showed genuine concern for the pain I have and offered suggestions as to minimizing that pain. The staff was great.


--Mary J.

I am always confident that I will receive the proper care. I have gone to Dr. Dechter for over 10 years and highly recommend him to anyone!


--Sandy W.

The staff is very freindly, well organized. Dr. Detcher took time to hear me out, had a couple options. I am pretty well free and almost back to to doing my normal activity. I would highly recommend Dr. Detcher.


--Jo C.

I went in to see Dr Dechter for a consultation to get an injection in my spine for pain. He is very nice and informative, I look forward to the follow up appointment when I get to have the injection done and then I see him again 2 weeks after! They take great care of their patients here. I might switch to here for all my pain care needs!!


--Jamie N.

Dr Dechter was very down to earth and I appreciated how nice he and all the staff were, super polite and helpful!


--Samantha R.

I have had one injection from Dr Dechter. I’m pain free right now and he has helped me create a plan in case the pain returns. He and his office staff are very supportive and caring.


--Emily L.

Dr Dechter is always attentive and responsive to my care and my needs.


--Lauren E.

Dr. Dechter and staff are very professional, courteous, and accommodating.


--Ursula P.

Great experience everytime. Dr. Dechter knows what he is doing and gives straight forward, easy to understand information about what treatment is needed.


--Susan S.

Our family has had nothing but great care with Dr McKay and Dr Dechter. We are really grateful for Benton Franklin Orthopedic Associates.


--Kat B.

Dr Dechter always listens carefully to what I have to say about my back pain and where it is. Due to this his treatment allows me to achieve greater relief than I had for years at a previous pain doctor.


--Pamela w.

Everyone is very nice and makes the patient very comfortable. Dr. Deter recognized the problem right away and laid out the solution.


--Det W.

Everyone is very nice and makes the patient very comfortable. Dr. Deter recognized the problem right away and laid out the solution.


--Det W.

Dr. Dechter is great.


--R.S.

Dr. Dechter and his staff are great and do everything they can to accommodate your needs. I've been a patient of his for challenges with arthritis for several years and continue to be very satisfied!


--Roy W.

Everyone was so friendly and Dr. Deckter was very explanatory about the procedures. Great experience, believe me I know, I have been dealing with my issues for a long time with many different Drs.


Duane Z.

Dr Dechter always listens, anticipates, and treats me with great respect. He uses advanced technology and relieves my pain with Botox. I trust Dr. Dechter and Dr. Dworkin, who did my rotator cuff surgery.


--Shawn D.

Dr Dechter always answers my questions and usually has an excellent remedy!


--Janis W.

We’re only a phone call away! Call (509) 586-2828 and let us know how we can help.