About
Dr. Iain Shamus Russell is a Orthopedic Surgeon. Practicing at an orthopedic clinic in Calgary, AB, Dr. Russell is dedicated to providing high-quality, patient-focused care in Orthopedic Surgery. Dr. Russell 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.
Dr. Russell 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. Iain Shamus Russell earned a Medical Degree (MD or equivalent) from University Of Alberta, graduating in 1991. Subsequently, Dr. Russell completed extensive specialty training and achieved Fellowship with the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada (FRCSC) in Orthopedic Surgery. Dr. Russell brings extensive clinical and surgical experience to the practice. Dr. Russell's expertise encompasses Specialty Practice in Orthopedic Surgery. In addition to core qualifications in Orthopedic Surgery, Orthopedic Surgeon may hold or have completed further certifications/training such as: LMCC. Dr. Russell 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. Russell'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 commitment to utilizing evidence-based practices and the latest advancements in orthopedic surgery and musculoskeletal care. Dr. Russell provides consultations in English.
As an Orthopedic Surgeon, Dr. Iain Shamus Russell diagnoses and treats a wide spectrum of injuries and conditions affecting the musculoskeletal system, including but not limited to:
Bone Joint Disorders General
- Bone Infections (Osteomyelitis - Surgical Debridement): Operative treatment to remove infected bone and tissue.
- Tendonitis and Bursitis (Persistent/Severe): Surgical management for chronic or severe cases of tendon inflammation (tendonitis) or bursa inflammation (bursitis) unresponsive to conservative care.
Degenerative Joint Diseases
- 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.
- Osteoarthritis: Helping patients cope with the effects of degenerative joint disease on mobility and quality of life.
Traumatic Injuries
- Sprains and Strains: Care for common soft tissue injuries resulting from trauma or overuse.
- Fractures (Broken Bones): Management of acute fractures of the upper extremity, lower extremity, and axial skeleton.
- Complex Musculoskeletal Trauma: Advanced surgical management for high-energy trauma affecting the musculoskeletal system.
- Dislocations: Managing joint dislocations where bones are forced out of their normal position, often requiring reduction and immobilization.
Sports Injuries
- Shoulder Instability and Dislocations: Treating recurrent shoulder dislocations and instability, often involving arthroscopic repair of the labrum (Bankart repair) or other stabilizing procedures.
- Meniscus Tears: Treating a common knee injury that can cause pain, swelling, and mechanical symptoms.
- Ligament Tears (e.g., ACL, MCL, Rotator Cuff): Specialized care for common sports-related ligamentous injuries.
- Tendon Injuries (e.g., Achilles, Patellar, Biceps Tendon Rupture): Surgical and non-surgical management of acute tendon ruptures and chronic tendinopathies.
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. Russell, typically following referral. If your specific concern isn't listed, please discuss with your referring physician or contact the clinic.
- Therapeutic Joint and Soft Tissue Injections: Utilizing image guidance (e.g., ultrasound) for precise injection placement when necessary.
- Comprehensive Orthopedic Consultation: Expert evaluation to diagnose injuries and disorders of the bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles, and nerves.
- Non-Operative Orthopedic Care: Providing conservative treatment options for musculoskeletal conditions, including medication management, therapeutic injections, bracing, casting, and referrals for physiotherapy.
- General Orthopedic Surgical Procedures: Performing a wide range of surgical interventions for various musculoskeletal conditions affecting different parts of the body.
- Hip Replacement Surgery (Total & Partial): Expertise in various surgical approaches and implant choices for hip replacement.
Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Russell. 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. Iain Shamus Russell 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. Iain Shamus Russell's practice, the focus is on partnering with you to restore function, alleviate pain, and help you return to your desired activities. Dr. Russell frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:
- If having a 'frozen shoulder' that's very stiff and painful is preventing you from fully enjoying playing their favorite sport (e.g., hockey, soccer, tennis, golf) or causing significant discomfort, Dr. Russell offers expert orthopedic solutions. The primary aim is to achieve the ability to participate more fully in family and social life through comprehensive and personalized care.
- Many people seek Dr. Russell's professional help and expertise when dealing with recurrent dislocations of their shoulder or kneecap. The mutually agreed upon, collaborative goal is consistently a clear diagnosis and understanding of their musculoskeletal condition, allowing a confident and satisfying return to valued life activities like being able to kneeling down or squatting without severe pain (for knee/hip issues).
- For those individuals challenged by the daily effects of breaking their arm/leg/hip and needing it fixed, Dr. Russell offers tailored strategies and effective treatments to reach their child's musculoskeletal condition being successfully managed or corrected. This positive change can mean rediscovering the simple joy of confidently navigating uneven surfaces or terrain.
Your personalized treatment plan, whether surgical or non-surgical, developed in consultation with Dr. Russell, will be carefully designed to help you achieve your specific musculoskeletal goals. Dr. Russell is committed to providing expert orthopedic care to help you regain mobility and improve your quality of life.
Dr. Russell's orthopedic clinic in Calgary is situated in the SE: Inglewood, Ramsay, Beltline East neighborhood of Calgary. The clinic is conveniently located near McMahon Stadium and is accessible via Calgary Transit (CTrain LRT, Bus, BRT). Please inquire about parking options if you have mobility concerns.
- What can I expect at my first orthopedic consultation with Dr. Russell at the clinic?
- At your first consultation, Dr. Russell will conduct a comprehensive musculoskeletal assessment. This involves a detailed discussion of your medical history, the specific problem (pain, injury, or loss of function), its onset, aggravating and relieving factors, and its impact on daily life. Dr. Russell will review any previous treatments and perform a thorough physical examination, assessing range of motion, strength, stability, and tenderness. Existing imaging (X-rays, MRI, CT scans) will be reviewed. Based on this, Dr. Russell will discuss diagnostic impressions, recommend further investigations if needed, and outline potential treatment options (surgical and non-surgical), collaboratively establishing goals with you.
- What does an Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Russell do?
- An Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Russell is a medical doctor specializing in the diagnosis, treatment, prevention, and rehabilitation of musculoskeletal system injuries and diseases (bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles, and nerves). They manage conditions such as fractures, arthritis, sports injuries, spinal disorders, and congenital deformities. They use both surgical (joint replacements, fracture repair, arthroscopy) and non-surgical (medication, injections, bracing, physiotherapy referrals) methods to restore function, alleviate pain, and improve quality of life.
- Are services provided by an Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Russell covered by provincial health insurance (e.g., Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP))?
- Most consultations, medically necessary assessments, and approved surgical procedures by a registered Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Russell are typically covered by provincial health plans like the AHCIP in AB, with a valid health card and appropriate referral. Diagnostic imaging is usually covered. However, some items (certain braces, custom orthotics, advanced biologic injections) may not be fully covered or may have associated fees. Inquire with the clinic about potential out-of-pocket costs and check private insurance coverage for adjunctive therapies or devices.
- How does Dr. Russell treat broken bones (fractures)?
- Treatment of fractures depends on the type, severity, location, and the patient's overall health. Non-surgical treatment might involve realignment (reduction) and immobilization with a cast, splint, or brace. Surgical treatment (internal or external fixation using plates, screws, rods, or pins) may be necessary for complex, open, or unstable fractures. Dr. Russell determines the most appropriate treatment to ensure proper healing and functional restoration.
- How long is the recovery time after orthopedic surgery with Dr. Russell?
- Recovery time varies greatly depending on the surgery type (arthroscopy vs. joint replacement vs. fracture fixation), the joint or bone involved, the patient's age and health, and their adherence to the post-operative rehabilitation plan. Minor procedures might take a few weeks, while major surgeries like total joint replacements can take several months. Dr. Russell will discuss the expected timeline during the pre-operative consultation.
MNP Community & Sport Centre North Building, 2225 Macleod Trail South
Calgary, AB, T2G 5B6
Phone: (403) 943-4555
Dr. Iain Shamus Russell 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: 11836
Verify registration with The College of Physicians & Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA): https://search.cpsa.ca/PhysicianProfile?e=2ccf958a-b4be-46f4-8d99-9ac7140d235b&i=1254
A referral from a family physician or another specialist is generally required to see Dr. Russell. Dr. Russell 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.