Dr. David Craig Loucks – Orthopedic Surgeon | Calgary, AB

Dr. David Craig Loucks is a Orthopedic Surgeon. Practicing at an orthopedic clinic in Calgary, AB, Dr. Loucks is dedicated to providing high-quality, patient-focused care in Orthopedic Surgery. Dr. Loucks is licensed by The College of Physicians & Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) and adheres to the highest professional and ethical standards of surgical practice in AB. As a certified specialist in Orthopedic Surgery, Dr. Loucks is 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. Loucks serves patients requiring specialized orthopedic care.

Dr. David Craig Loucks earned a Medical Degree (MD or equivalent) from Uofc - University Of Calgary, graduating in 1998. Subsequently, Dr. Loucks completed advanced specialty training in Specialty Practice in Orthopedic Surgery. Dr. Loucks brings extensive clinical and surgical experience to the practice. Dr. Loucks's expertise encompasses Specialty Practice in Orthopedic Surgery. Dr. Loucks 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. Loucks's surgical practice philosophy include: a dedication to surgical excellence and achieving optimal outcomes for every patient; a commitment to utilizing evidence-based practices and the latest advancements in orthopedic surgery and musculoskeletal care; a focus on restoring function and mobility, aiming to help patients return to their desired activities as safely and quickly as possible. Dr. Loucks provides consultations in English.

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

Degenerative Joint Diseases

• Osteoarthritis: Managing joint pain, stiffness, and loss of function caused by wear-and-tear arthritis affecting joints like the hip, knee, shoulder, hand, or spine.
• Avascular Necrosis (Osteonecrosis): Interventions may include core decompression or joint replacement depending on the stage.

Traumatic Injuries

• Fractures (Broken Bones): Management of acute fractures of the upper extremity, lower extremity, and axial skeleton.
• Sprains and Strains: Care for common soft tissue injuries resulting from trauma or overuse.

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): Arthroscopic and open surgical techniques for ligament repair and reconstruction.
• Tendon Injuries (e.g., Achilles, Patellar, Biceps Tendon Rupture): Repairing torn tendons to restore strength and function.

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

• Knee Replacement Surgery (Total & Partial): Surgical replacement of the knee joint, including total knee arthroplasty and unicompartmental (partial) knee replacement, for severe arthritis or injury.
• Total Joint Replacement (Arthroplasty): Specialized surgical procedures to replace damaged joints with artificial implants.
• Complex Fracture and Trauma Surgery: Specialized surgical treatment for severe fractures, multiple injuries, pelvic and acetabular fractures, and post-traumatic complications like nonunions or malunions.
• Fracture Management (Surgical & Non-Surgical): Expert treatment of broken bones in adults and children, aiming for optimal healing and functional recovery.
• General Orthopedic Surgical Procedures: Performing a wide range of surgical interventions for various musculoskeletal conditions affecting different parts of the body.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Loucks. 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. David Craig Loucks adhere to the scope of practice for Orthopedic Surgeons in AB and the standards of The College of Physicians & Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA).

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

• Effectively addressing a recent ankle sprain that isn't getting better with Dr. Loucks's comprehensive orthopedic approach often leads to the desired outcome of alleviation of back or neck pain after appropriate intervention, enabling patients to more freely and confidently engage in gardening, doing housework, or performing yard work and social interactions.
• When breaking their arm/leg/hip and needing it fixed begins to noticeably impact daily life and well-being, Dr. Loucks helps patients strive for a successful arthroscopic repair of a torn ligament or cartilage. This makes participating in activities such as being able to sit comfortably for extended periods (e.g., for work or travel) a pleasant and possible experience again.
• Patients presenting with chronic low back pain that shoots down their leg can find lasting relief and achieve the important outcome of a safe return to work after an injury under Dr. Loucks's experienced care. This frequently allows them to resume standing for longer periods without discomfort without the former limitations or discomfort.

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

Dr. Loucks's practice, an orthopedic clinic in Calgary, is situated in the NW: Hillhurst, Westmount, Sunnyside (Kensington) neighborhood of Calgary. The clinic is conveniently located near The Bow Tower and is accessible via Calgary Transit (CTrain LRT, Bus, BRT). Patient parking, including accessible spots, is typically available.

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

Your first visit will involve a comprehensive musculoskeletal assessment. This includes a detailed discussion of your 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. Loucks will review any previous treatments and perform a thorough physical examination, assessing range of motion, strength, stability, and tenderness. Any prior imaging (X-rays, MRI, CT scans) will be reviewed. Based on this, Dr. Loucks will discuss diagnostic impressions, may recommend further investigations, and outline potential treatment options (non-surgical and surgical), working with you to establish goals.

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

Orthopedic Surgeons like Dr. Loucks treat all types of bone fractures. Treatment depends on the type and severity of the fracture, its location, and your overall health. Non-surgical treatment might involve realigning the bone and immobilizing it with a cast, splint, or brace. Surgical treatment may be necessary for complex fractures, open fractures, or fractures unlikely to heal well with casting. Surgical options include internal fixation (plates, screws, rods, or pins) or external fixation (a frame outside the body). Dr. Loucks will determine the most appropriate treatment.

What does an Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Loucks do?

An Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Loucks specializes in diagnosing, treating, preventing, and rehabilitating injuries and diseases of the body's musculoskeletal system (bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles, and nerves). They manage fractures, arthritis, sports injuries, spinal disorders, and congenital deformities. They use both surgical (joint replacements, fracture repair, arthroscopy) and non-surgical methods (medication, injections, bracing, physiotherapy). Their goal is to restore function, alleviate pain, and improve quality of life.

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

Joint replacement surgery, or arthroplasty, replaces damaged or arthritic parts of a joint (hip, knee, shoulder) with artificial components. Dr. Loucks might recommend it if you have severe joint pain and loss of function due to advanced osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or a significant injury, and non-surgical treatments are inadequate. The goal is to reduce pain, improve mobility, and enhance quality of life.

Are services provided by an Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Loucks covered by provincial health insurance (e.g., Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP))?

Most physician consultations, medically necessary assessments, and approved surgical procedures by a registered Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Loucks are typically covered by provincial health plans such as Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB, 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 to inquire with the clinic about potential out-of-pocket costs and check with your private insurance, if any, regarding coverage for adjunctive therapies or devices.

What is the policy regarding missed appointments or late cancellations at our clinic for Dr. Loucks?

We understand that unforeseen circumstances can arise. However, we kindly request at least 72 business hours' notice if you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment with Dr. Loucks. This allows us to offer the appointment time to another patient. Appointments cancelled or rescheduled with less than 72 hours' notice, or missed without notification, may be subject to a $150 cancellation fee. We appreciate your cooperation.

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

Recovery time varies greatly depending on the type of surgery, 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. Dr. Loucks will discuss the expected recovery timeline during the pre-operative consultation.

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

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

300-1402 8 Ave NW
Calgary, AB, T2N 1B9

Phone: (403) 220-0410

Dr. David Craig Loucks is a licensed Orthopedic Surgeon in AB, regulated by The College of Physicians & Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) under the Health Professions Act (Alberta).

License Number: 037431

Verify registration with The College of Physicians & Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA): https://search.cpsa.ca/PhysicianProfile?e=96b1dbe4-6c44-4fec-94ac-734effbf5203&i=884

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