Dr. Christopher Blair Kennedy – Orthopedic Surgeon | Ottawa, ON

Dr. Christopher Blair Kennedy is a Orthopedic Surgeon. Practicing at an orthopedic clinic in Ottawa, ON, Dr. Kennedy is dedicated to providing high-quality, patient-focused care in Orthopedic Surgery. Dr. Kennedy is licensed by The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) and adheres to the highest professional and ethical standards of surgical practice in ON.

Dr. Kennedy serves patients requiring specialized orthopedic care as a certified specialist in Orthopedic Surgery, dedicated to the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of injuries and diseases of the body's musculoskeletal system. This includes bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles, and nerves. The goal is to restore function, alleviate pain, and improve quality of life through both surgical and non-surgical means.

Dr. Christopher Blair Kennedy earned a Medical Degree from Dalhousie University Faculty Of Medicine, graduating in 2002. Subsequently, Dr. Kennedy completed extensive specialty training and achieved Fellowship with the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada (FRCSC) in Orthopedic Surgery. Dr. Kennedy brings extensive clinical and surgical experience to the practice. Dr. Kennedy's expertise encompasses Specialty Practice in Orthopedic Surgery. Dr. Kennedy is committed to ongoing professional development and staying at the forefront of orthopedic advancements to offer the best possible care to patients. Key aspects of Dr. Kennedy's surgical practice philosophy include: a commitment to utilizing evidence-based practices and the latest advancements in orthopedic surgery and musculoskeletal care; a dedication to surgical excellence and achieving optimal outcomes for every patient; a focus on restoring function and mobility, aiming to help patients return to their desired activities as safely and quickly as possible. Dr. Kennedy is fluent in English and also offers consultations in French.

As an Orthopedic Surgeon, Dr. Christopher Blair Kennedy diagnoses and treats a wide spectrum of injuries and conditions affecting the musculoskeletal system, including but not limited to:

Degenerative Joint Diseases

• Rheumatoid Arthritis (Orthopedic Management): Surgical and non-surgical management of joint damage and deformities caused by rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory arthropathies.
• Osteoarthritis: Comprehensive treatment including non-surgical options (medication, injections, therapy) and surgical joint replacement when indicated.

Traumatic Injuries

• Fractures (Broken Bones): Management of acute fractures of the upper extremity, lower extremity, and axial skeleton.
• Sprains and Strains: Diagnosing and treating ligament sprains (stretching or tearing of ligaments) and muscle/tendon strains (injuries to muscles or tendons).
• Dislocations: Managing joint dislocations where bones are forced out of their normal position, often requiring reduction and immobilization.
• Complex Musculoskeletal Trauma: Specialized care for severe injuries involving multiple fractures, open fractures, pelvic fractures, or significant soft tissue damage.

Sports Injuries

• Meniscus Tears: Treating a common knee injury that can cause pain, swelling, and mechanical symptoms.
• Tendon Injuries (e.g., Achilles, Patellar, Biceps Tendon Rupture): Surgical and non-surgical management of acute tendon ruptures and chronic tendinopathies.
• Shoulder Instability and Dislocations: Addressing problems that cause the shoulder joint to slip out of place.

Bone Joint Disorders General

• Nonunions and Malunions of Fractures: Surgical correction of fractures that have failed to heal (nonunion) or have healed in an incorrect position (malunion).
• Tendonitis and Bursitis (Persistent/Severe): Surgical management for chronic or severe cases of tendon inflammation (tendonitis) or bursa inflammation (bursitis) unresponsive to conservative care.

This list provides examples of conditions commonly managed. A comprehensive diagnosis and treatment plan, which may be surgical or non-surgical, are always based on an individual assessment by Dr. Kennedy, typically following referral. If your specific concern isn't listed, please discuss with your referring physician or contact the clinic.

• Diagnostic Imaging Interpretation (Musculoskeletal): Utilizing advanced imaging to accurately diagnose fractures, soft tissue injuries, arthritis, and other musculoskeletal pathologies.
• Fracture Management (Surgical & Non-Surgical): Managing all types of fractures, from simple to complex, ensuring proper alignment and stability.
• Total Joint Replacement (Arthroplasty): Comprehensive care for patients undergoing total joint arthroplasty, from pre-operative planning to post-operative rehabilitation.
• Comprehensive Orthopedic Consultation: In-depth consultation to determine the cause of musculoskeletal pain, instability, or dysfunction and to develop a personalized care plan.
• Complex Fracture and Trauma Surgery: Reconstructive surgery for severe bone and joint injuries.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Kennedy. Not all services may be listed, and the suitability of any procedure or treatment depends on individual assessment and referral. For a comprehensive understanding or to discuss your specific medical needs, please schedule a consultation.

All surgical and non-surgical treatments by Dr. Christopher Blair Kennedy adhere to the scope of practice for Orthopedic Surgeons in ON and the standards of The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO).

At Dr. Christopher Blair Kennedy's practice, the focus is on partnering with you to restore function, alleviate pain, and help you return to your desired activities. Dr. Kennedy frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• The path to improved musculoskeletal wellness, especially when facing their knee pain getting so bad they can barely walk or climb stairs, involves working systematically towards a well-functioning joint replacement that allows for better movement and less pain. Dr. Kennedy expertly guides patients through this process so they can once again enjoy life's moments, including kneeling down or squatting without severe pain (for knee/hip issues).
• The primary focus for patients seeking help for their child limping or having trouble with their walking at Dr. Kennedy's practice is consistently achieving improved quality of life due to reduced pain and better physical function. This facilitates a confident and meaningful return to valued daily activities such as their child running and playing with friends without limitations.
• If chronic low back pain that shoots down their leg is preventing you from fully enjoying participating in fitness classes or going to the gym or causing significant discomfort, Dr. Kennedy offers expert orthopedic solutions. The primary aim is to achieve their child's musculoskeletal condition being successfully managed or corrected through comprehensive and personalized care.

Your personalized treatment plan, whether surgical or non-surgical, developed in consultation with Dr. Kennedy, will be carefully designed to help you achieve your specific musculoskeletal goals. Dr. Kennedy is committed to providing expert orthopedic care to help you regain mobility and improve your quality of life.

Dr. Kennedy's practice, an orthopedic clinic in Ottawa, is situated in the Hintonburg, Civic Hospital, Westboro East neighborhood of Ottawa. The clinic is conveniently located near Canadian War Museum and is accessible via OC Transpo (O-Train LRT, Bus). Details on parking can be provided when you book your consultation.

What can I expect at my first orthopedic consultation with Dr. Kennedy at the clinic?

The first visit will typically involve a comprehensive musculoskeletal assessment. This includes a detailed discussion of the patient's medical history, the specific problem (e.g., pain, injury, loss of function), how it started, what makes it better or worse, and its impact on daily activities and quality of life. Dr. Kennedy will review any previous treatments and will perform a thorough physical examination of the affected area(s), assessing range of motion, strength, stability, and tenderness. Any prior imaging (X-rays, MRI, CT scans) will be reviewed. Based on this evaluation, Dr. Kennedy will discuss their diagnostic impressions, may recommend further investigations if needed, and will outline potential treatment options, both non-surgical and surgical, working with the patient to establish goals.

Do I typically need a referral to see an Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Kennedy?

Yes, in ON, a referral from a family doctor (GP) or another specialist (e.g., sports medicine physician, rheumatologist) is generally required to see an Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Kennedy for consultations and potential surgical treatments covered by provincial health plans like Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP). This referral helps ensure the consultation is appropriate and that Dr. Kennedy has the necessary background medical information. Speak with your primary care physician or referring doctor if you believe you need an orthopedic surgical assessment.

How does Dr. Kennedy treat broken bones (fractures)?

Orthopedic Surgeons like Dr. Kennedy are experts in treating all types of bone fractures. Treatment depends on the type and severity of the fracture, its location, and the patient's overall health. Non-surgical treatment may involve realigning the bone (reduction) and then immobilizing it with a cast, splint, or brace to allow it to heal. Surgical treatment might be necessary for more complex fractures, open fractures (where the bone breaks the skin), or fractures that are unlikely to heal well with casting alone. Surgical options include internal fixation (using plates, screws, rods, or pins to hold the bone pieces together) or external fixation (using a frame outside the body connected to pins in the bone). Dr. Kennedy will determine the most appropriate treatment to ensure the bone heals correctly and function is restored.

Are services provided by an Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Kennedy covered by provincial health insurance (e.g., Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP))?

Most physician consultations, medically necessary assessments, and approved surgical procedures by a registered Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Kennedy are typically covered by provincial health plans such as Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON, provided the patient has a valid health card and appropriate referral. Diagnostic imaging ordered is also usually covered. However, some specific items like certain braces, custom orthotics, or advanced biologic injections may not be fully covered or may have associated fees. It's always best for patients to inquire with the clinic about any potential out-of-pocket costs and to check with their private insurance, if any, regarding coverage for adjunctive therapies or devices.

How long is the recovery time after orthopedic surgery with Dr. Kennedy?

Recovery time after orthopedic surgery varies greatly depending on the type of surgery performed (e.g., arthroscopy vs. joint replacement vs. fracture fixation), the specific joint or bone involved, the patient's age and overall health, and their adherence to the post-operative rehabilitation plan. Some minor procedures may have a recovery of a few weeks, while major surgeries like total joint replacements can take several months for full recovery and return to all activities. Dr. Kennedy will discuss the expected recovery timeline for a specific procedure during the pre-operative consultation.

What does an Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Kennedy do?

An Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Kennedy is a medical doctor (physician) who specializes in diagnosing, treating, preventing, and rehabilitating injuries and diseases of the body's musculoskeletal system. This includes bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles, and nerves. They manage a wide range of conditions such as fractures, arthritis, sports injuries, spinal disorders, and congenital deformities. While they are surgeons, Orthopedic Surgeons use both surgical methods (like joint replacements, fracture repair, arthroscopy) and non-surgical methods (like medication, injections, bracing, or recommending physiotherapy) to treat patients. Their goal is to restore function, alleviate pain, and improve quality of life.

What is joint replacement surgery, and when might Dr. Kennedy recommend it?

Joint replacement surgery, or arthroplasty, is a procedure where damaged or arthritic parts of a joint (like the hip, knee, or shoulder) are removed and replaced with artificial components (prostheses) made of metal, plastic, or ceramic. Dr. Kennedy might recommend joint replacement if a patient has severe joint pain and loss of function, typically due to advanced osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or a significant injury, and non-surgical treatments (like medication, injections, physiotherapy) are no longer providing adequate relief. The goal is to reduce pain, improve mobility, and enhance quality of life.

Unit unit 101, 1053 Carling Ave., Suite J153, unit 101
Ottawa, ON, K1Y 4E9

Phone: (613) 798-5555

Dr. Christopher Blair Kennedy is a licensed Orthopedic Surgeon in ON, regulated by The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) under the Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991 & Medicine Act, 1991 (Ontario).

License Number: 78046

Verify registration with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Kennedy-Christopher-Blair/0193826-78046

A referral from a family physician or another specialist is generally required to see Dr. Kennedy. Dr. Kennedy and the team are dedicated to providing expert orthopedic care. If you have a medical emergency, please proceed to the nearest hospital emergency department or call 911.