Orthopedics Care

Consider an orthopedic evaluation when pain, stiffness, weakness, swelling or an injury limits daily activities, work, exercise or sleep; symptoms keep returning; or initial care has not helped. Seek urgent or emergency care for a serious injury, an obvious deformity, an open wound over a suspected fracture, uncontrolled bleeding, loss of feeling or circulation, or other severe symptoms. 

Request a consultation

Referral requirements vary by specialist, location and insurance plan. Some patients may schedule directly, while others need a referral or prior authorization. Contact your selected MercyOne care location and insurance plan before your visit to confirm what applies to you.

No. An orthopedics care plan typically begins with activity changes, medication guidance, bracing, physical or occupational therapy, injections or another nonsurgical option. Surgery may be discussed when it is appropriate for the condition, symptoms, health and goals. Your specialist will explain the options that apply to you.

Your care team will ask about your symptoms, injury history, health history, medications and goals. The visit may include a physical exam and a review of prior images or records. Additional imaging or testing may be recommended before a diagnosis and treatment plan are finalized.

Bring a photo ID, insurance information, a current medication list and any referral your plan requires. If available, bring prior imaging, test results, operative reports and a list of treatments you have already tried. Ask the care location whether records should be sent before your visit.

MercyOne orthopedics teams evaluate bone, joint, muscle, tendon and ligament concerns such as arthritis, fractures, sprains, strains, sports injuries, carpal tunnel syndrome, rotator cuff injuries, meniscus or ligament injuries, and selected spine, foot and ankle conditions. Services and age ranges vary by location.

Robotic-assisted technology helps surgeons create a personalized surgical plan and can improve the precision of implant positioning. Potential benefits may include improved joint function, greater implant accuracy and a more predictable recovery experience.

1 Prepare for the visit

Before your appointment, check with your care location to see whether a referral, medical records or previous imaging is needed. Bring your insurance information, a current medication list and any details about your symptoms, including when they started and what seems to improve or worsen them.

2 Evaluation

Your orthopedic specialist will take time to learn about your symptoms, health history, lifestyle and goals. A physical exam may be performed, and your provider may review existing imaging or recommend additional tests to better understand what's causing your pain or mobility concerns.

3 Shared treatment plan

Your specialist will explain the likely diagnosis, options, expected benefits and risks, alternatives and follow-up. It’s important to ask how each option may affect work, activities and recovery.

4 Recovery and follow-up

Whether your treatment includes therapy, medication, a procedure or ongoing care, we're here to support you throughout your recovery. You'll receive guidance on next steps, follow-up care and ways to manage your condition at home. Contact your care team if symptoms change or you have questions about the plan. 

MercyOne offers orthopedic services at locations across Iowa and in the Quad Cities region. Available specialists, procedures, hours and appointment methods differ by location. Use the MercyOne location and provider directories, then confirm the service with the care location before scheduling.

Find a location

Coverage and out-of-pocket costs depend on your insurance plan, provider, location, tests and treatment. Contact your insurance plan and the MercyOne care location to confirm network participation, referral or prior authorization requirements and available cost estimates.