Dr. Daniel Burke Whelan – Orthopedic Surgeon | Toronto, ON

Dr. Daniel Burke Whelan is a Orthopedic Surgeon. Practicing at an orthopedic clinic in Toronto, ON, Dr. Whelan is dedicated to providing high-quality, patient-focused care in Orthopedic Surgery. Dr. Whelan 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. Whelan 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. Daniel Burke Whelan earned a Medical Degree from Memorial University Of Newfoundland Faculty Of Medicine, graduating in 1996. Subsequently, Dr. Whelan completed extensive specialty training and achieved Fellowship with the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada (FRCSC) in Orthopedic Surgery. Dr. Whelan brings extensive clinical and surgical experience to the practice. Dr. Whelan's expertise encompasses Specialty Practice in Orthopedic Surgery. Dr. Whelan 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. Whelan's surgical practice philosophy include: a focus on restoring function and mobility, aiming to help patients return to their desired activities as safely and quickly as possible; exploring non-operative treatments thoroughly before considering surgery, when appropriate. Dr. Whelan provides consultations in English.

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

Bone Joint Disorders General

• Tendonitis and Bursitis (Persistent/Severe): Procedures such as debridement or bursectomy when indicated.
• Bone Infections (Osteomyelitis - Surgical Debridement): Operative treatment to remove infected bone and tissue.

Traumatic Injuries

• Sprains and Strains: Care for common soft tissue injuries resulting from trauma or overuse.
• Complex Musculoskeletal Trauma: Specialized care for severe injuries involving multiple fractures, open fractures, pelvic fractures, or significant soft tissue damage.
• Dislocations: Managing joint dislocations where bones are forced out of their normal position, often requiring reduction and immobilization.
• Fractures (Broken Bones): Comprehensive care for broken bones, ensuring proper alignment, healing, and restoration of function.

Degenerative Joint Diseases

• Rheumatoid Arthritis (Orthopedic Management): Addressing the musculoskeletal consequences of autoimmune joint diseases in collaboration with rheumatologists.
• Avascular Necrosis (Osteonecrosis): Interventions may include core decompression or joint replacement depending on the stage.

Sports Injuries

• Meniscus Tears: Managing tears of the meniscus (cartilage pads in the knee) through conservative treatment or arthroscopic surgery (repair or meniscectomy).
• Ligament Tears (e.g., ACL, MCL, Rotator Cuff): Specialized care for common sports-related ligamentous injuries.
• Shoulder Instability and Dislocations: Addressing problems that cause the shoulder joint to slip out of place.

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. Whelan, typically following referral. If your specific concern isn't listed, please discuss with your referring physician or contact the clinic.

• Complex Fracture and Trauma Surgery: Reconstructive surgery for severe bone and joint injuries.
• Shoulder Replacement Surgery: Performing total shoulder arthroplasty and reverse total shoulder arthroplasty for conditions like osteoarthritis, rotator cuff tear arthropathy, and complex fractures.
• Hip Replacement Surgery (Total & Partial): Surgical reconstruction of the hip joint, including total hip arthroplasty and hemiarthroplasty, for conditions like osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or hip fractures.
• Non-Operative Orthopedic Care: Exploring all appropriate non-operative avenues before considering surgery.
• Total Joint Replacement (Arthroplasty): Specialized surgical procedures to replace damaged joints with artificial implants.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Whelan. 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. Daniel Burke Whelan 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. Daniel Burke Whelan's practice, the focus is on partnering with you to restore function, alleviate pain, and help you return to your desired activities. Dr. Whelan frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• If a shoulder injury from sports that won't heal and keeps them from playing is proving to be a significant barrier to your daily comfort or confidence, Dr. Whelan develops targeted strategies aimed squarely at a clear diagnosis and understanding of their musculoskeletal condition. This careful approach facilitates your ability to once again fully enjoy their child running and playing with friends without limitations.
• When patients discuss needing a joint replacement because of severe arthritis, Dr. Whelan outlines a path to regaining strength and function after an injury or surgery, aiming to restore not just musculoskeletal health but also the ability to comfortably climbing stairs easily and without holding on for dear life.
• Patients experiencing recurrent dislocations of their shoulder or kneecap often express a desire to improve their physical function and reduce pain. At Dr. Whelan's practice, a key objective is improved mobility and ability to walk, climb stairs, or move more freely, which directly supports their ability to fully engage in feeling stable and balanced on their feet, reducing fear of falls.

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

Dr. Whelan's orthopedic clinic in Toronto is situated in the St. James Town neighborhood, conveniently located near Nathan Phillips Square and accessible via TTC (Subway, Streetcar, Bus). Patient parking, including accessible spots, is typically available.

What can I expect at my first orthopedic consultation with Dr. Whelan 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. Whelan 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. Whelan will discuss his 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.

Are services provided by an Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Whelan 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. Whelan 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. Whelan?

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. Whelan will discuss the expected recovery timeline for a specific procedure during the pre-operative consultation.

What does an Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Whelan do?

An Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Whelan 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 should I bring to my orthopedic appointment with Dr. Whelan?

Bring your provincial health card (e.g., Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) card), the referral letter, a list of all current medications (including dosage and frequency), copies of relevant medical records, imaging reports AND the actual images if on a CD/USB (X-ray, MRI, CT scans – images are very important for orthopedic review), and any pertinent test results. Wear comfortable clothing that allows for easy examination of the affected body part(s) (e.g., shorts for a knee problem). If you use any braces, splints, or assistive devices, bring those as well.

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

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. Whelan 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. Whelan 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. Whelan treat broken bones (fractures)?

Orthopedic Surgeons like Dr. Whelan 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. Whelan will determine the most appropriate treatment to ensure the bone heals correctly and function is restored.

What is joint replacement surgery, and when might Dr. Whelan 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. Whelan 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.

55 Queen Street East
Toronto, ON, M5C 1R6

Phone: (416) 864-6002

Dr. Daniel Burke Whelan 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: 70660

Verify registration with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Whelan-Daniel-Burke/0134010-70660

A referral from a family physician or another specialist is generally required to see Dr. Whelan. Dr. Whelan 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.