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The 5 Best Orthopaedic Specialists in Columbus to Get Back to a Pain-Free Life

top-orthopaedic-specialists-columbus
We extensively test and research all services we review. Here's why you can trust us.

Credentials: We prioritized practices that are widely recognized and have extensive field experience to ensure high-quality, credible patient care.   

Patient Experience: We closely reviewed patient testimonials to understand how people felt throughout their care journey. Consistent praise for structured processes and positive results was highly favored.   

Technology: We also looked into centers that provide advanced diagnostic tools and treatment technologies to ensure more precise procedures, shorter recovery times, and better outcomes.

Comprehensive Care: We selected the orthopaedic groups that offer both conservative and surgical options to help ensure continuity of care and a more seamless experience for patients with complex conditions. 

When I reached my late twenties, I used to joke around about ageing, especially with how bad my back and hip pains are — until they didn’t feel like jokes anymore. Things like getting out of bed or sitting too long brought excruciating pain. 

I realized it was no longer a passing ache and that I needed to take it seriously. Those moments that pushed me to look for expert help, not just for quick relief, but for care that’ll help me move comfortably again. 

After some research about orthopaedic specialists in Columbus, here are some names that stood out, especially with their approach to patient care and the treatments they offer.

How much does orthopaedic care cost in Columbus?

Orthopaedic care in Columbus varies widely depending on the type of treatment. For instance, new patient visits can cost $200 to $600, while surgical procedures range from $5,000 to $22,000.

1. Orthopedic ONE

orthopedic-one

Address: 4605 Sawmill Rd, Upper Arlington

Phone: +16148278700

Business Hours: Monday to Friday, 8 AM–5 PM

Website

Orthopedic ONE is one of the largest and most recognized orthopedic surgery practices in Central Ohio, known for its expertise. In fact, they’re consistently ranked #1 in Ohio and #3 nationally among orthopedic groups.

What made them stand out for us is how comprehensive their options are, spanning from conservative management to surgical intervention. These include physical therapy, spinal injections, ligament repairs, and more. 

Apparently, less than 10% of their patient appointments actually lead to surgery, and it’s really impressive that they genuinely try to push non-surgical options first before advancing to the more invasive ones. 

Many people appreciate that therapists and physicians work collaboratively to help them heal. This is especially true with regaining their strength and mobility after years of pain. 

Alongside the positive experiences, we were a bit iffy with how confusing their billing and insurance communication can be. Some extra charges weren’t explained up front, leaving people confused. 

Pros

  • State and nationwide recognition
  • Comprehensive orthopaedic care
  • Strong focus on non-surgical treatments
  • Collaborative work to help recovery

Cons

  • Billing transparency

I always feel better and stronger after my PT with them

“This was my first experience with physical therapy.  They gave me the confidence to push gradually and to have the correct technique to make safe progress after knee surgery. Now I am on my second knee, and mobility and strength are improving. They give me exercises to do at home too, and add more each session. I always feel better and stronger after my PT with them. Maybe temporarily sore, but stronger.”

This crazy journey could not have gone more smoothly

“Having had multiple surgeries in 9 months, I can attest that my successful progress was due to the therapy I received at Orthopedic One. Their attention to detail, keen observation and positive outlook on my behalf were so appreciated. My unique situation sometimes required decisions to be made that were not the norm. Thanks to the professionalism and medical expertise of my therapist and his assistant, guiding me through this crazy journey could not have gone more smoothly! Thank you, Terry and Stephanie!”

2. JIS Orthopedics

jis-orthopedics

Address: 7277 Smith’s Mill Rd #200, New Albany

Phone: +16142216331

Business Hours:

  • Monday, 8 AM–4 PM
  • Tuesday to Wednesday, 8 AM–5 PM
  • Thursday to Friday, 8 AM–4:30 PM

Website

Formerly known as Joint Implant Surgeons, JIS Orthopedics brings together over 50 years of experience in the field. They’re considered one of the Midwest’s premier choices, particularly for complex joint issues.

Actually, they’re world-renowned for their hip and knee replacements. Their surgical team performs thousands of total joint replacements and teaches certification courses that attract surgeons from across the country and abroad. 

At the same time, they’ve expanded their scope to include spine care, shoulder surgery, and more orthopaedic treatments. 

They also offer priority care. This allows patients to receive prompt attention for acute injuries, such as sprains, without having to go through the usual appointment setting. This makes them more accessible and convenient for those who need urgent attention.

People we interviewed can attest to the kind of care the place provides. They said the team quickly assessed their injuries and lined up the most appropriate treatment without any delays. 

Just note that the clinic can be crowded and busy, which can be bothersome and uncomfortable for some. 

Pros

  • Over 50 years of experience
  • World-renowned for hip and knee replacement
  • Expanded scope of care
  • Accessible urgent care
  • Efficient patient experience

Cons

  • The place can be crowded

JIS has always been great for me

“JIS has always been great for me. I have had 2 hips replaced with them. I also had a small knee issue that, fortunately, didn’t require surgery and they treated me great. Naturally, when I had an issue with my hand, I chose the walk-in clinic. Dr Julka saw me pretty quickly and explained exactly what was going on with my hand. I left confident in the plan for recovery.”

Took very good care of me

“Dr Julka is awesome! He is super knowledgeable, caring and informative. He took very good care of me, answered all of my questions and addressed all of my concerns. I very much appreciated his attention to being timely at every appointment and on surgery day. I have recommended him to friends and coworkers.”

3. Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Center

orthopedic-foot-and-ankle-center

Address: 350 W Wilson Bridge Rd STE 200, Worthington

Phone: +16148958747

Business Hours: Monday to Friday, 7 AM–4 PM

Website

At Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Center, they focus on providing care for issues that impact walking and balance. This includes ankle arthritis, bunions, and so on. 

They are particularly known for their expertise in wound care and limb salvage, making them a lifesaving option for athletes and patients with diabetes. 

Their goal with their treatments is to always start with conservative options like custom-molded orthotics and laser therapy. But if surgery is required, the clinic is at the top of its game too. 

In fact, they hold the status of a Stryker Center of Ankle Excellence. This means they’re one of the top facilities in the world for advanced joint replacement technology.

One thing we’ve noticed, though, is that they’re quite strict about your first visit. They’ll require you to bring previous test results related to your condition.

They do this to compare past and current images and determine whether the condition is new, stable, or progressing. Because of this condition, client sentiments are mixed. Some patients praise the thoroughness of tailored plans once all records are provided, while others find the rescheduling rule frustrating.

Pros

  • Highly specialized foot and ankle care
  • Experts in wound care and limb salvage
  • Prioritizes conservative treatments
  • Globally-recognized treatments
  • Personalized plans

Cons

  • Strict first-visit requirements

My surgery was a success

“My surgery was a success. I am now in the recovery stages. I went from a soft splint to a hard cast. The care I have received has been awesome. If you’re having the surgery, definitely make sure you have the Ice pump. The customer service and bedside manners of the doctors and staff are amazing. They are very informative and helpful in how to help yourself heal properly. I’m not for sure how the scar is going to look after my stitch. However, my experience with doctors and staff is a win for the books. This is definitely a place that I recommend.”

Would highly recommend

“All doctors should take notes from Dr. Thomas.  This is a doctor who REALLY cares about his patients.  He listens to your concerns, comes up with solutions, and explains things so that you can understand. I had a pretty extensive surgery where hardware had to be removed (done by a different provider), and additional things were done to correct my foot issue. I appreciate you, Dr. Thomas, for all that you and your staff have done for me. (and it was a lot!!) Would highly recommend him.”

4. Ohio State Orthopedics

ohio-state-orthopedics

Address: 2835 Fred Taylor Dr # 2000

Phone: +16142933600

Business Hours: Monday to Friday, 8 AM–3 PM

Website

As an academic medical center, Ohio State Orthopedics isn’t just practicing medicine; they are also known for researching new and innovative treatments. This means patients have access to trials and therapies that aren’t yet available on the market. 

The scope of their practice is pretty wide. This includes complex trauma cases and orthopedic oncology, but they’re best known for their Sports Medicine division. After all, they’re the official care provider for the Buckeyes, which speaks to their capabilities. 

In their procedures, they excel in robotic-assisted surgery and biological restoration, having been among the first in the region to adopt the Mako robotic arm for knee and hip replacements. 

The best thing about this place is the coordination between different specialists, especially on complex cases that require multi-step treatment. Many patients appreciate that the clinic has a whole team looking out for them.

We were just disappointed to hear that communication can be a little unreliable. They would often make clients wait for updates and callbacks, leaving them frustrated despite the doctors’ excellent care.

Pros

  • Cutting-edge research
  • World-class reputation in Sports Medicine
  • Excels in robotic-assisted surgery
  • Coordinated team approach
  • Innovative treatments

Cons

  • Communication gaps

Your kindness made it easy for my a decision

“Well, let me say this, they are amazing. I was dealing with a work injury for over a year and I decided to come here for a second opinion. My family and I are very satisfied. Dr. Jones is thorough with his exams and makes sure that you understand your condition. This is for my shoulder. His team is wonderful as well; they are very personable and pleasant, which is a great thing if you’re in pain, and I am. Thank you all for a wonderful experience can’t wait for surgery so I can get better. Thank you all. Your kindness made it easy for my decision. Thank you.”

Everything went quickly and smoothly

“When I arrived, I sat down for maybe 3 minutes before someone called me back.  Every person I met had a smile. The atmosphere was kind, compassionate and informative. The highest level of professionalism was shown from answering my questions to inserting the IV. I was very nervous about getting surgery when I arrived but after meeting everyone, I was completely at ease and everything went quickly and smoothly. I will need surgery on my other hand and I’m calling right away to schedule again with Dr Schmucker. I have zero reservations about getting the next surgery and actually look forward to seeing all of the friendly staff again.”

5. OrthoNeuro

orthoneuro

Address: 5040 Forest Dr #300, New Albany

Phone: +16148906555

Business Hours: Monday to Friday, 8 AM–5 PM

Website

As the name suggests, OrthoNeuro is the practice that combines both orthopedic and neuro care. Meaning they primarily handle issues where nerve damage and musculoskeletal problems overlap. 

Their process typically begins with a thorough evaluation to diagnose the source of pain and determine the best course of action. The treatment will likely start with non-surgical methods, such as physical therapy and nerve blocks. 

What we like most is that the team doesn’t rush to make these programs. Patients frequently mentioned that the doctors would take the time to lay out all possible options before considering surgical intervention. 

And if ever surgery is necessary, their procedures are impressively high-tech. They use robotic-assisted replacement systems like Cori and Navio for high accuracy, especially for making small incisions to speed healing. 

One thing you definitely need to be prepared for is the occasional administrative mess. Delays in messages or paperwork requiring additional follow-ups may affect the overall experience. 

Pros

  • Dual specialization (orthopaedics and neuro)
  • Focuses on a non-surgical approach
  • High-tech surgical precision
  • Thorough decision-making

Cons

  • Administrative inconsistency

I was impressed by the service

“I feel like I am seen and heard when I go to Ortho / Neuro! My options are limited because of health conditions and they are willing to help me with options to have a better functional daily life. Dr. Scott Smith was amazing and explained my shoulder issues clearly. I was impressed that he took the time before he saw me to know my extensive medical history.”

Wonderful doctor

“Wonderful doctor!  Takes the time to explain everything prior to surgery.  He also stays up to date on research and joint developments. He replaced my left hip in 2019 and my right in 2025.  Dr. Palmer is just a great man!  I would recommend him to everyone!”