Dr. James Jedidiah Laughren

As an Orthopedic Surgeon, Dr. James Jedidiah Laughren 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): Surgical debridement and management of bone infections, often in conjunction with long-term antibiotic therapy.
• Nonunions and Malunions of Fractures: Surgical correction of fractures that have failed to heal (nonunion) or have healed in an incorrect position (malunion).

Traumatic Injuries

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

• Shoulder Replacement Surgery: Surgical solutions to improve shoulder mobility and reduce pain from severe joint damage.
• Therapeutic Joint and Soft Tissue Injections: Utilizing image guidance (e.g., ultrasound) for precise injection placement when necessary.
• General Orthopedic Surgical Procedures: Offering operative solutions for orthopedic problems when conservative measures are insufficient.
• Non-Operative Orthopedic Care: Providing conservative treatment options for musculoskeletal conditions, including medication management, therapeutic injections, bracing, casting, and referrals for physiotherapy.
• 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. Laughren. 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. James Jedidiah Laughren 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 Dr. James Jedidiah Laughren's practice, the focus is on partnering with you to restore function, alleviate pain, and help you return to your desired activities. Dr. Laughren frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Dr. Laughren provides dedicated support for patients going through their spine being curved (like scoliosis), always aiming for positive outcomes like regaining strength and function after an injury or surgery, so they can comfortably and happily return to a full range of activities such as participating in fitness classes or going to the gym.
• Patients experiencing arthritis in their hands making it hard to grip things often express a desire to improve their physical function and reduce pain. At Dr. Laughren's practice, a key objective is their fracture healing in the correct alignment, which directly supports their ability to fully engage in opening jars or turning doorknobs without difficulty (for hand issues).
• Understanding the frustration having a 'frozen shoulder' that's very stiff and painful can cause, Dr. Laughren tailors treatments to ensure patients achieve a well-functioning joint replacement that allows for better movement and less pain, allowing for renewed participation in activities like playing their favorite sport (e.g., hockey, soccer, tennis, golf).

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

Dr. Laughren's practice, an orthopedic clinic in Nanaimo, is situated in the Central Nanaimo, Departure Bay neighborhood of Nanaimo. The clinic is conveniently located near Brooks Landing Shopping Centre and is accessible via Regional District of Nanaimo 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. Laughren?

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. Laughren 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. Laughren has the necessary background medical information. If you believe you need an orthopedic surgical assessment, speak with your primary care physician or referring doctor.

Are services provided by an Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Laughren 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. Laughren are typically covered by provincial health plans such as the Medical Services Plan (MSP) of BC in BC, provided you have 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. 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 can I expect at my first orthopedic consultation with Dr. Laughren 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), its onset, aggravating and relieving factors, and its impact on daily life. Dr. Laughren will review 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. Laughren will discuss diagnostic impressions, may recommend further investigations, and outline potential treatment options (non-surgical and surgical), collaborating with you to establish goals.

What does an Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Laughren do?

An Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Laughren is a medical doctor specializing in diagnosing, treating, preventing, and rehabilitating injuries and diseases of the musculoskeletal system (bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles, and nerves). They manage conditions such as fractures, arthritis, sports injuries, spinal disorders, and congenital deformities. Orthopedic Surgeons use both surgical (joint replacements, fracture repair, arthroscopy) and non-surgical methods (medication, injections, bracing, physiotherapy) to restore function, alleviate pain, and improve quality of life.

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

Recovery time varies greatly depending on the surgery type (e.g., arthroscopy vs. joint replacement), the joint/bone involved, the patient's age and health, and adherence to the rehabilitation plan. Minor procedures may take a few weeks, while major surgeries like total joint replacements can take several months for full recovery. Dr. Laughren will discuss the expected timeline during the pre-operative consultation.

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

Joint replacement surgery (arthroplasty) involves removing damaged joint parts and replacing them with artificial components (prostheses). Dr. Laughren might recommend it if a patient has severe joint pain and loss of function due to advanced osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or significant injury, and non-surgical treatments are inadequate. The goal is to reduce pain, improve mobility, and enhance quality of life.

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

Dr. Laughren treats all types of bone fractures. Treatment depends on the fracture type and severity, location, and patient health. Non-surgical treatment may involve realigning the bone (reduction) and immobilizing it with a cast or brace. Surgical treatment (internal or external fixation) might be necessary for complex fractures, open fractures, or fractures unlikely to heal well with casting. Dr. Laughren determines the most appropriate treatment to ensure correct healing and restored function.

301-1515 Dufferin Cres
Nanaimo, BC, V9S 5H6

Phone: (250) 591-0264 | Website: https://nanaimoortho.ca/pages/our-clinic

Dr. James Jedidiah Laughren 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: 67758

Verify registration with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/355869/Laughren%2CJames

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