Dr. Donald Ross Armstrong – Orthopedic Surgeon | Guelph, ON

Dr. Donald Ross Armstrong is a Orthopedic Surgeon. Practicing at an orthopedic clinic in Guelph, ON, Dr. Armstrong is dedicated to providing high-quality, patient-focused care in Orthopedic Surgery. Dr. Armstrong 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. As a certified specialist in Orthopedic Surgery, Dr. Armstrong 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. Armstrong serves patients requiring specialized orthopedic care.

Dr. Donald Ross Armstrong earned a Medical Degree from Queen'S University, graduating in 1982. Subsequently, Dr. Armstrong completed extensive specialty training and achieved Fellowship with the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada (FRCSC) in Orthopedic Surgery. Dr. Armstrong brings extensive clinical and surgical experience to the practice. Dr. Armstrong's expertise encompasses Specialty Practice in Orthopedic Surgery. Dr. Armstrong 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. Armstrong'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; a dedication to surgical excellence and achieving optimal outcomes for every patient. Dr. Armstrong provides consultations in English.

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

Sports Injuries

• Tendon Injuries (e.g., Achilles, Patellar, Biceps Tendon Rupture): Repairing torn tendons to restore strength and function.
• 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.
• Shoulder Instability and Dislocations: Treating recurrent shoulder dislocations and instability, often involving arthroscopic repair of the labrum (Bankart repair) or other stabilizing procedures.

Traumatic Injuries

• Sprains and Strains: Care for common soft tissue injuries resulting from trauma or overuse.
• Dislocations: Managing joint dislocations where bones are forced out of their normal position, often requiring reduction and immobilization.

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.
• Rheumatoid Arthritis (Orthopedic Management): Addressing the musculoskeletal consequences of autoimmune joint diseases in collaboration with rheumatologists.

Bone Joint Disorders General

• Nonunions and Malunions of Fractures: Reconstructive procedures to promote bone healing and restore proper alignment.
• Tendonitis and Bursitis (Persistent/Severe): Surgical management for chronic or severe cases of tendon inflammation (tendonitis) or bursa inflammation (bursitis) unresponsive to conservative care.
• Bone Infections (Osteomyelitis - Surgical Debridement): Surgical debridement and management of bone infections, often in conjunction with long-term antibiotic therapy.

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

• Total Joint Replacement (Arthroplasty): Performing primary and revision hip, knee, and shoulder replacement surgeries to relieve pain and restore function in patients with advanced arthritis or joint damage.
• Non-Operative Orthopedic Care: Exploring all appropriate non-operative avenues before considering surgery.
• Fracture Management (Surgical & Non-Surgical): Managing all types of fractures, from simple to complex, ensuring proper alignment and stability.
• General Orthopedic Surgical Procedures: Offering operative solutions for orthopedic problems when conservative measures are insufficient.
• Knee Replacement Surgery (Total & Partial): Advanced techniques to restore knee function and alleviate pain through arthroplasty.

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

• The journey from a sports injury that needs surgery to repair a torn ligament or tendon to wellness often involves Dr. Armstrong's dedicated care. The milestone is feeling more confident in their physical abilities, which opens the door back to activities such as feeling stable and balanced on their feet, reducing fear of falls.
• Dr. Armstrong's comprehensive care for their child limping or having trouble with their walking is meticulously designed to result in an effective surgical or non-surgical treatment plan tailored to their needs. This allows patients to confidently resume important personal or professional activities such as participating in fitness classes or going to the gym without musculoskeletal worries.
• Managing pain and weakness after a bad fall or accident effectively and proactively is a top priority for Dr. Armstrong and the medical team. The clear aim is always a clear diagnosis and understanding of their musculoskeletal condition, which directly helps patients get back to enjoying kneeling down or squatting without severe pain (for knee/hip issues) and their daily routines without severe physical hindrance.

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

Dr. Armstrong's orthopedic clinic in Guelph is situated in the Grange Road Area, Victoria North neighborhood. The clinic enjoys a convenient location near the South End Commercial Area and is easily accessible via Guelph Transit. Details on parking can be provided when you book your consultation.

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

The first visit will typically 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. Armstrong 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. Armstrong will discuss his diagnostic impressions, may recommend further investigations if needed, and will outline potential treatment options, both non-surgical and surgical, working with you to establish goals.

Are services provided by an Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Armstrong 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. Armstrong 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 does Dr. Armstrong treat broken bones (fractures)?

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

What does an Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Armstrong do?

An Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Armstrong 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.

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

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

Unit Unit 25, 115 Delhi St, Unit 25
Guelph, ON, N1E 4J4

Phone: (519) 822-5350

Dr. Donald Ross Armstrong 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: 50497

Verify registration with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Armstrong-Donald-Ross/0036521-50497

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