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Rediscover
What Moves You

Where Does It Hurt?

If you're suffering from bone or joint pain, even small tasks can feel like monumental challenges. If pain is keeping you from doing things you love, it may be time to consider medical treatment.

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Knee

The knee is the largest joint in the body and has a big job. The bones, cartilage, muscles, tendons and ligaments that make up the knee are why you can sit, walk, stand and jump.

As many as one in four adults suffer from chronic knee pain, most often caused by osteoarthritis. However, there are ways to help ease the ache.

Knee Services Knee Injuries Meet the Specialists
Hip

The hip joint supports your body's weight and helps it move the upper legs to walk, climb stairs and even swing at a golf ball.

While you might think you're too young to be concerned about hip pain, the condition is common for people of all ages. In fact, at least 24% of American adults have arthritis - a major cause of hip pain. So, if you're having trouble moving, we can help.

Hip Services Hip Injuries Meet the Specialists
Shoulder

While the shoulder joint has the best range of motion, it also has the least stability, making it prone to injury. This can become a problem if your shoulder hurts too much to cross your arms, lift your children or grandchildren, or even shrug.

Shoulder pain and injury can worsen over time, so it's important to talk with a doctor early on, when the injury is most treatable.

Shoulder Services Shoulder Injuries Meet the Specialists
Back • Spine

Our back muscles and spine keep us upright and help us control our head, neck, shoulders, arms and legs. Parts of the back also work together to help us bend, sit, stand, twist and even walk.

Up to 80% of Americans experience back pain in their lifetimes, but working with an orthopedic team can help you determine the cause and treatment options.

Back & Spine Services Meet the Specialists
Foot & Ankle

The American Podiatric Medical Association reports 77% of adults have experienced foot pain. Still, many don't seek help for the 26 bones, 30 joints and more than 100 muscles, tendons and ligaments that make up the foot.

While it might sound complicated, isn't it worth finding out more to regain your balance and mobility?

Foot & Ankle Services Foot & Ankle Injuries Meet the Specialists
Hand • Wrist • Elbow

If your hand, wrist or elbow hurts, chances are you fell or suffered an overuse injury. In fact, up to 50% of all hand and wrist injuries are from overuse during sports, hobbies like gardening or even work - such as frequent or repetitive computer use. Other conditions, such as arthritis, also can cause upper extremity pain.

Whether it's injury, overuse or something else, talking to a specialist can help you discover the source of your pain.

Hand, Wrist & Elbow Services Hand & Wrist Injuries Meet the Specialists

Joint Pain
Quiz

Our online quiz can help determine if you may be a candidate for joint replacement surgery.

Start My Quiz

Joint Replacement
Guide

Download a guide to discover more about joint pain treatment and joint replacement surgery.

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On-Demand
Seminar

Watch an on-demand orthopedic seminar to learn more about joint pain treatment options available.

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Meet The
Specialists

Meet the orthopedic physicians who perform surgery at Commonwealth Health.

Meet the Specialists

Why Choose Us

At Commonwealth Health, we care for the parts that keep you moving. When a bone, tendon or joint doesn't work like it's supposed to, we offer a range of orthopedic services to help get you back to the life you enjoy - from injury prevention and recovery to total joint replacement and rehabilitation. The orthopedic specialists offer multidisciplinary care in an environment where patients come first.

Joint Commission's Gold Seal of Approval

Nationally Distinguished Hip & Knee Replacement
The orthopedic surgeons at Commonwealth Health specialize in total joint replacement, helping bring life-changing relief to those suffering with severe arthritis. In fact, the hospital has earned the Joint Commission's Gold Seal of Approval® for hip and total knee replacement. Find peace of mind knowing we meet the highest, national standards of care, from pre-op education through follow-up care and beyond.

In addition to performing traditional joint replacement, the surgeons at Commonwealth Health use minimally invasive techniques whenever possible, which may allow for smaller incisions and minimal disruption to surrounding tissue. For you, this may mean less pain and scarring; more flexibility and mobility immediately following surgery; and a smoother, faster recovery.

The team provides care for a range of orthopedic conditions, including:

  • Arthritis and joint disease
  • Back, neck and shoulder pain
  • Bone disease, including osteomyelitis and osteoporosis
  • Congenital deformities and conditions
  • Fractures, sprains, strains and damage to tendons and muscles
  • Leg, knee and foot conditions, including ACL injuries, bunions, neuromas, plantar fasciitis and more
  • Repetitive stress injuries, including carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis, tennis elbow, de Quervain's syndrome and others
  • Trauma and sports injuries

The orthopedic services at Wilkes-Barre General Hospital include:

  • Total joint replacement for knees, hips, elbows and shoulders
  • Hip resurfacing
  • Shoulder reconstruction
  • Hand and elbow surgery
  • Minimally invasive surgical options
Start My Quiz Meet the Specialists

Frequently Asked Questions

What is orthopedics, and how do I choose an orthopedic surgeon?

Orthopedics is a medical specialty that focuses on diagnosing and treating injuries, diseases and disorders affecting bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles and nerves. Collectively, these parts of the body are also known as the musculoskeletal system.

Choosing an orthopedic surgeon is an important decision that requires careful consideration. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

  • Does the provider have experience treating your specific condition and the appropriate education and credentials?
  • Does your insurance provider cover the services of this provider?
  • Are there any patient reviews and other feedback available online that may give you an idea of what the care experience would be like with this provider?
  • Have you considered recommendations from family, friends or your primary care provider?

Regardless of other factors, we recommend selecting someone with whom you feel comfortable communicating. A good surgeon will take the time to answer your questions and explain possible treatment options in a way that you can understand.

Request an Appointment Watch On-Demand Seminar
What is minimally invasive joint replacement surgery?

Minimally invasive joint replacement surgery is an orthopedic procedure used to treat pain, stiffness and disability caused by various joint-related problems. The benefits of minimally invasive joint replacement surgery include a shorter recovery time, less pain, less risk of infection and reduced scarring than traditional, open surgery.

Request an Appointment Watch On-Demand Seminar Learn More About Minimally Invasive Hip Surgery
Is joint replacement surgery the only option for my joint pain?

Surgery is often a treatment for joint pain, but it is not the only option, nor the first option usually recommended. Other therapies may provide relief depending on the cause and severity of your joint pain. Conservative, non-surgical treatments include physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, corticosteroid injections and lifestyle changes that may be sufficient to address your joint pain. However, if these treatments are ineffective, surgery may be the best course to reduce pain and improve joint function.

Request an Appointment Watch On-Demand Seminar
Are there weight requirements for joint replacement surgery?

A healthy weight is often recommended before surgery. Studies indicate that patients with a BMI of 30 or higher are almost twice as likely to experience joint replacement complications than those with BMIs under 30. However, weight is not the only factor determining if someone is a good candidate for joint replacement surgery. Other factors such as age, activity level, lifestyle and the patient's overall health are considered by the orthopedic surgeon.

Request an Appointment Watch On-Demand Seminar
What is the cost of joint replacement surgery, and will my insurance cover that cost?

Out-of-pocket costs vary from patient to patient for many complex reasons, including the services provided and differences in insurance coverage and plans. Please contact us before scheduling surgery to obtain the most accurate cost estimate, information about our financial assistance programs and a better understanding of your insurance coverage. We also offer an online price estimator.

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Following a joint replacement surgery, will I have to stay overnight in the hospital?

Though length of time needed can differ by procedure, many joint surgeries generally take one to three hours. Hospital stays vary depending on the patient, but returning home on the day of your surgery is possible for patients who are healthy enough. Your care team will advise you about how best to prepare for your surgery and if your case requires you to stay overnight for treatment and observation.

Request an Appointment Watch On-Demand Seminar
How long does it take to heal from joint replacement surgery?

After surgery, you will be moved to a recovery room. Your orthopedic surgeon will provide you with specific instructions for post-surgery care, including taking pain medications, participating in physical therapy, using assistive devices such as crutches or a walker and avoiding activities that can stress the affected joint.

Studies show most people return to sedentary jobs six to eight weeks after surgery. For more strenuous jobs, people often return in eight to 12 weeks. Your post-surgical care depends upon the procedure, and your care team will advise you on specific activities to avoid. This can include sleep and sitting positions, particular movements and high-impact sports.

Request an Appointment Watch On-Demand Seminar
What are the risks of joint replacement surgery?

While most surgery patients experience little-to-no complications, any surgery has risks of infection, blood clotting or nerve damage. Let your surgeon know if you fall into risk categories due to smoking, heart issues or allergies.

Request an Appointment Watch On-Demand Seminar

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