Dr. Joseph Thomas Cavanagh – Orthopedic Surgeon | Edmonton, AB

Dr. Joseph Thomas Cavanagh is a Orthopedic Surgeon. Practicing at an orthopedic clinic in Edmonton, AB, Dr. Cavanagh is dedicated to providing high-quality, patient-focused care in Orthopedic Surgery. Dr. Cavanagh 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. Cavanagh 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. Cavanagh serves patients requiring specialized orthopedic care.

Dr. Joseph Thomas Cavanagh earned a Medical Degree (MD or equivalent) from Australia, graduating in 2016. Subsequently, Dr. Cavanagh completed advanced specialty training in Specialty Practice in Orthopedic Surgery. Dr. Cavanagh brings extensive clinical and surgical experience to the practice. Dr. Cavanagh's expertise encompasses Specialty Practice in Orthopedic Surgery. Dr. Cavanagh 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. Cavanagh'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; a commitment to utilizing evidence-based practices and the latest advancements in orthopedic surgery and musculoskeletal care. Dr. Cavanagh provides consultations in English.

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

Degenerative Joint Diseases

• Osteoarthritis: Helping patients cope with the effects of degenerative joint disease on mobility and quality of life.
• Rheumatoid Arthritis (Orthopedic Management): Addressing the musculoskeletal consequences of autoimmune joint diseases in collaboration with rheumatologists.

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.
• 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.

Bone Joint Disorders General

• 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. Cavanagh, 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): Advanced techniques to restore knee function and alleviate pain through arthroplasty.
• Comprehensive Orthopedic Consultation: In-depth consultation to determine the cause of musculoskeletal pain, instability, or dysfunction and to develop a personalized care plan.
• Non-Operative Orthopedic Care: Exploring all appropriate non-operative avenues before considering surgery.
• 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.
• Shoulder Replacement Surgery: Surgical solutions to improve shoulder mobility and reduce pain from severe joint damage.

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

• Effectively addressing a bunion on their foot that's causing a lot of pain with Dr. Cavanagh's comprehensive orthopedic approach often leads to the desired outcome of an effective surgical or non-surgical treatment plan tailored to their needs, enabling patients to more freely and confidently engage in performing personal hygiene tasks independently and social interactions.
• At Dr. Cavanagh's clinic, addressing their child limping or having trouble with their walking means focusing on patient goals. Achieving a successful arthroscopic repair of a torn ligament or cartilage helps them get back to enjoying life, including being able to throwing a ball or swinging a racket effectively.
• Many people seek Dr. Cavanagh's professional help and expertise when dealing with a shoulder injury from sports that won't heal and keeps them from playing. The mutually agreed upon, collaborative goal is consistently a safe return to work after an injury, allowing a confident and satisfying return to valued life activities like being able to typing, writing, or using tools without hand or wrist pain.

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

Dr. Cavanagh's orthopedic clinic in Edmonton is situated in the NW: Glenora, North Glenora, Westmount neighborhood of Edmonton. The clinic is conveniently located near Citadel Theatre and is accessible via Edmonton Transit Service (ETS) (LRT, Bus). Please inquire about parking options if you have mobility concerns.

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

At your first consultation, Dr. Cavanagh will conduct a comprehensive musculoskeletal assessment. This involves a detailed discussion of your medical history, the specific problem (pain, injury, etc.), its onset, aggravating/relieving factors, and its impact on daily life. He will review previous treatments and perform a thorough physical examination, assessing range of motion, strength, and tenderness. Any prior imaging (X-rays, MRI, CT scans) will be reviewed. Based on this, Dr. Cavanagh will discuss his diagnostic impressions, may recommend further investigations, and outline potential treatment options (surgical and non-surgical), collaborating with you to set goals.

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

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

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

Recovery time varies greatly depending on the surgery type, the joint/bone involved, the patient's age and health, and their adherence to the rehabilitation plan. Minor procedures may take a few weeks, while major surgeries like total joint replacements can take several months. Dr. Cavanagh will discuss the expected timeline during the pre-operative consultation.

What does an Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Cavanagh do?

An Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Cavanagh specializes in diagnosing, treating, preventing, and rehabilitating musculoskeletal injuries and diseases (bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles, and nerves). They manage conditions such as fractures, arthritis, sports injuries, and spinal disorders, using both surgical and non-surgical methods to restore function, alleviate pain, and improve quality of life.

What should I bring to my orthopedic appointment with Dr. Cavanagh?

Bring your provincial health card, referral letter, a medication list (dosage and frequency), copies of relevant medical records, imaging reports AND images (if on CD/USB), and any test results. Wear comfortable clothing allowing easy examination of the affected area(s). Bring any braces or assistive devices you use.

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

In Alberta, a referral from a family doctor or another specialist is generally required for consultations and surgical treatments covered by provincial health plans like the Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP). This ensures the consultation is appropriate and Dr. Cavanagh has the necessary background information. Speak with your primary care physician if you believe you need an orthopedic surgical assessment.

Are services provided by an Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Cavanagh 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 are typically covered by provincial health plans like AHCIP, provided you have a valid health card and appropriate referral. Diagnostic imaging is usually covered. However, some items (certain braces, custom orthotics, or advanced 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 regarding coverage for adjunctive therapies or devices.

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

Dr. Cavanagh treats fractures based on their type and severity, location, and the patient's overall health. Non-surgical treatment may involve realigning the bone (reduction) and immobilizing it with a cast or brace. Surgical treatment (internal or external fixation) may be necessary for complex fractures or those unlikely to heal well with casting alone. Dr. Cavanagh will determine the most appropriate treatment.

10972 124 St NW
Edmonton, AB, T5M 0H8

Phone: (780) 453-6985

Dr. Joseph Thomas Cavanagh 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: 034562

Verify registration with The College of Physicians & Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA): https://search.cpsa.ca/PhysicianProfile?e=588f9bdb-3540-4b71-9fe8-9d03f6d78797&i=251

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