ORTHOPEDIC SURGERY
What is an Orthopedic Surgeon?
An orthopedic surgeon is a physician who diagnoses, treats, prevents and rehabilitates injuries, disorders and diseases of the musculoskeletal system. This system includes bones, joints, ligaments, muscles, nerves and tendons.
While orthopedic surgeons are familiar with all aspects of the musculoskeletal system, many specialize in treating a specific area of the body. They may treat the foot and ankle, hand, shoulder and elbow, spine, hip or knee.
Orthopedic Surgeons in the Sport Medicine Centre
To see an orthopedic surgeon, you will need a referral from your family doctor or a sport & exercise medicine physician.
Our areas of speciality are in:
- sport medicine
- shoulders
- hips
- knees
We are also involved in research initiatives within our respective specialty areas. It is a natural fit, as the Sport Medicine Centre is part of the University of Calgary. We also have access to on-site x-rays and a team of interdisciplinary team members such as sport & exercise medicine physicians, physiotherapists, massage therapists, athletic therapists, dietitians and more.
Please note: You will need a referral from your family doctor or a sport medicine physician to book an appointment.
Orthopedic Treatments
An orthopedic surgeon treats many musculoskeletal conditions without surgery. We use medications, injections, exercise and other rehabilitative therapies. We may recommend surgery if the patient does not respond to other treatments.
First Appointment with a Surgeon
For your first visit to a surgeon, you will need to do the following:
Arrive 15 Minutes Early
Arrive 15 minutes early to fill out forms to help us understand your condition. Save time by completing the Patient Information Form and bring it with you.
Bring Healthcare Card
Bring your Alberta Healthcare card.
Bring Shorts or a Sleeveless Shirt
Bring a pair of shorts for a lower body injury or a sleeveless shirt for an upper body injury.
Be Prepared
Be prepared to answer questions about your condition and medical history for your surgeon.
Your first appointment will last about 1 hour.
What to Expect at your First Appointment
At your first appointment, you will undergo a physical exam by your surgeon. Your surgeon may review any imaging and/or laboratory work.
Once the assessment is complete, your surgeon will explain what is causing the problem and will discuss the best treatments options to suit your health and lifestyle. Your first appointment will last about 1 hour.
Rehabilitation Programs After Surgery
For those who have had surgery, your physician will recommend a rehabilitation program to suit your needs. Check out the protocols here.
Anterior Cruciate Ligament Rehabilitation
Use the following Anterior Cruciate Ligament or ACL protocol as a guide during rehabilitation after surgery in consultation with a physiotherapist or athletic therapist. Your therapist will teach you the exercises and modify them to suit you. You will be advised when to start therapy at your first follow-up appointment.
Rotator Cuff Repair (operative)
Use the following program as a guide during rehabilitation after surgery in consultation with a physiotherapist or athletic therapist. A therapist can teach and individually modify the exercises.
Your surgeon will advise when you should start physiotherapy / athletic therapy at your first follow-up appointment.
Contact Us
Sport Medicine Physicians: 403-220-8518
Physiotherapy: 403-220-8232
Orthopedic Surgeons: 403-220-5077