Dr. David Michael Wickham – Orthopedic Surgeon | Abbotsford, BC

Dr. David Michael Wickham is a Orthopedic Surgeon. Practicing at Wickham David M Dr in Abbotsford, BC, Dr. Wickham is dedicated to providing high-quality, patient-focused care in Orthopedic Surgery. Dr. Wickham is licensed by The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) and adheres to the highest professional and ethical standards of surgical practice in BC.

Dr. Wickham 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. David Michael Wickham earned a Medical Degree (MD or equivalent) from University Of British Columbia, graduating in 1982. Subsequently, Dr. Wickham completed extensive specialty training and achieved Fellowship with the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada (FRCSC) in Orthopedic Surgery. Dr. Wickham brings extensive clinical and surgical experience to the practice. Dr. Wickham's expertise encompasses Specialty Practice in Orthopedic Surgery. Dr. Wickham 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. Wickham's surgical practice philosophy include: exploring non-operative treatments thoroughly before considering surgery, when appropriate; providing clear explanations of conditions and treatment options to empower patients in their healthcare journey. Dr. Wickham provides consultations in English.

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

Traumatic Injuries

• Complex Musculoskeletal Trauma: Specialized care for severe injuries involving multiple fractures, open fractures, pelvic fractures, or significant soft tissue damage.
• Fractures (Broken Bones): Treating all types of bone fractures in adults and children, from simple breaks requiring casting to complex injuries needing surgical fixation.
• Sprains and Strains: Care for common soft tissue injuries resulting from trauma or overuse.

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.
• Avascular Necrosis (Osteonecrosis): Interventions may include core decompression or joint replacement depending on the stage.
• Osteoarthritis: Comprehensive treatment including non-surgical options (medication, injections, therapy) and surgical joint replacement when indicated.

Bone Joint Disorders General

• Nonunions and Malunions of Fractures: Reconstructive procedures to promote bone healing and restore proper alignment.
• Tendonitis and Bursitis (Persistent/Severe): Procedures such as debridement or bursectomy when indicated.

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

• Comprehensive Orthopedic Consultation: Thorough assessment of musculoskeletal conditions, including detailed history, physical examination, review of imaging (X-rays, MRI, CT scans), and discussion of treatment options.
• Non-Operative Orthopedic Care: Exploring all appropriate non-operative avenues before considering surgery.
• Shoulder Replacement Surgery: Surgical solutions to improve shoulder mobility and reduce pain from severe joint damage.
• Fracture Management (Surgical & Non-Surgical): Comprehensive care for bone fractures, including closed reduction and casting, as well as surgical fixation with plates, screws, rods, or external fixators.
• 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. Wickham. 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 Michael Wickham adhere to the scope of practice for Orthopedic Surgeons in BC and the standards of The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC).

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

• Through Dr. Wickham's skilled guidance and modern surgical techniques, patients suffering from needing a joint replacement because of severe arthritis often find they can readily achieve feeling empowered to take an active role in their recovery and rehabilitation and once again enthusiastically pursue enjoyable pastimes like confidently navigating uneven surfaces or terrain.
• At Dr. Wickham's clinic, addressing a shoulder injury from sports that won't heal and keeps them from playing means focusing on patient goals. Achieving being able to sleep better without being woken by musculoskeletal pain helps them get back to enjoying life, including being able to participating in family vacations and outings that involve walking.
• Patients presenting with having a 'frozen shoulder' that's very stiff and painful can find lasting relief and achieve the important outcome of correction of a deformity (e.g., bunion, scoliosis, clubfoot) under Dr. Wickham's experienced care. This frequently allows them to resume enjoying hobbies that require fine motor skills or physical activity without the former limitations or discomfort.

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

Wickham David M Dr is situated in the Central Abbotsford, Mill Lake Area neighborhood of Abbotsford. The clinic is conveniently located near Mill Lake Park and is accessible via Central Fraser Valley Transit System (BC Transit). Please inquire about parking options if you have mobility concerns.

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

In British Columbia, 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. Wickham for consultations and potential surgical treatments covered by provincial health plans like the Medical Services Plan (MSP) of BC. This referral ensures the consultation is appropriate and that Dr. Wickham has the necessary background medical information. If you believe you need an orthopedic surgical assessment, speak with your primary care physician or referring doctor.

What does an Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Wickham do?

An Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Wickham is a medical doctor specializing 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. Orthopedic Surgeons use both surgical methods (like joint replacements, fracture repair, arthroscopy) and non-surgical methods (like medication, injections, bracing, or recommending physiotherapy). Their goal is to restore function, alleviate pain, and improve quality of life.

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

Recovery time after orthopedic surgery varies greatly depending on the type of surgery, the specific joint or bone involved, the patient's age and 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. Dr. Wickham will discuss the expected recovery timeline during the pre-operative consultation.

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

Orthopedic Surgeons like Dr. Wickham treat 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 and immobilizing it with a cast, splint, or brace. Surgical treatment might be necessary for complex fractures, open fractures, or fractures unlikely to heal well with casting. Surgical options include internal fixation (using plates, screws, rods, or pins) or external fixation (using a frame outside the body). Dr. Wickham will determine the most appropriate treatment.

Are services provided by an Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Wickham covered by provincial health insurance (e.g., Medical Services Plan (MSP) of BC)?

Most physician consultations, medically necessary assessments, and approved surgical procedures by a registered Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Wickham are typically covered by provincial health plans such as the Medical Services Plan (MSP) of BC, provided the patient has a valid health card and appropriate referral. Diagnostic imaging 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. Inquire with Wickham David M Dr about potential out-of-pocket costs and check with your private insurance regarding coverage for adjunctive therapies or devices.

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

Joint replacement surgery, or arthroplasty, is a procedure where damaged or arthritic parts of a joint are removed and replaced with artificial components (prostheses). Dr. Wickham might recommend joint replacement if a patient has 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.

What can I expect at my first orthopedic consultation with Dr. Wickham at Wickham David M Dr?

The first visit will involve a comprehensive musculoskeletal assessment. This includes a detailed discussion of the patient's medical history, the specific problem, how it started, what makes it better or worse, and its impact on daily activities. Dr. Wickham will review any previous treatments and perform a thorough physical examination. Any prior imaging will be reviewed. Based on this evaluation, Dr. Wickham will discuss diagnostic impressions, may recommend further investigations, and outline potential treatment options, both non-surgical and surgical, working with the patient to establish goals.

Wickham David M Dr
100-34194 Marshall Rd
Abbotsford, BC, V2S 5E4

Phone: (604) 853-3381

Dr. David Michael Wickham is a licensed Orthopedic Surgeon in BC, regulated by The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) under the Health Professions Act (British Columbia).

License Number: 6902

Verify registration with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/303868/Wickham%2CDavid

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