Dr. Michaela Kopka – Orthopedic Surgeon | Canmore, AB

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

Dr. Michaela Kopka earned a Medical Degree (MD or equivalent) from University Of Toronto, graduating in 2010. Subsequently, Dr. Kopka completed advanced specialty training in Specialty Practice in Orthopedic Surgery. Dr. Kopka brings extensive clinical and surgical experience to the practice. Dr. Kopka's expertise encompasses Specialty Practice in Orthopedic Surgery. Dr. Kopka 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. Kopka's surgical practice philosophy include: a patient-centered approach, ensuring that treatment decisions are made collaboratively with the patient's goals and lifestyle in mind; 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. Kopka is fluent in English and also offers consultations in Czech and French.

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

Sports Injuries

• 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.

Degenerative Joint Diseases

• Avascular Necrosis (Osteonecrosis): Interventions may include core decompression or joint replacement depending on the stage.
• 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.

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.

Traumatic Injuries

• Complex Musculoskeletal Trauma: Specialized care for severe injuries involving multiple fractures, open fractures, pelvic fractures, or significant soft tissue damage.
• Sprains and Strains: Diagnosing and treating ligament sprains (stretching or tearing of ligaments) and muscle/tendon strains (injuries to muscles or tendons).

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

• Fracture Management (Surgical & Non-Surgical): Managing all types of fractures, from simple to complex, ensuring proper alignment and stability.
• Shoulder Replacement Surgery: Surgical solutions to improve shoulder mobility and reduce pain from severe joint damage.
• Diagnostic Imaging Interpretation (Musculoskeletal): Integrating imaging findings with clinical assessment to guide treatment decisions.
• 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. Kopka. 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. Michaela Kopka 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. Michaela Kopka's practice, the focus is on partnering with you to restore function, alleviate pain, and help you return to your desired activities. Dr. Kopka frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• When breaking their arm/leg/hip and needing it fixed starts to interfere with daily life, such as affecting their ability to reaching overhead or behind their back comfortably (for shoulder issues), Dr. Kopka and the team work collaboratively with patients. Success is marked by an effective surgical or non-surgical treatment plan tailored to their needs and a return to comfort and confidence in their movement.
• Patients experiencing pain and weakness after a bad fall or accident often express a desire to improve their physical function and reduce pain. At Dr. Kopka's practice, a key objective is learning strategies to prevent re-injury or manage their chronic condition, which directly supports their ability to fully engage in throwing a ball or swinging a racket effectively.
• Patients frequently come to Dr. Kopka with concerns about chronic pain in a joint that hasn't responded to other treatments. By working together as a team, they typically aim for and achieve being able to perform daily self-care tasks independently again, making a positive and lasting return to performing personal hygiene tasks independently not just possible, but highly feasible.

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

Dr. Kopka's practice, an orthopedic clinic in Canmore, is situated in a central location within the Canmore neighborhood of Canmore. The clinic is conveniently located near local healthcare facilities and community services and is accessible via major local public transit routes. Please inquire about parking options if you have mobility concerns.

What are some common conditions an Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Kopka treats?

Orthopedic Surgeons like Dr. Kopka treat a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions. Some common examples include fractures (broken bones), osteoarthritis (particularly in the hip, knee, and shoulder), sports injuries (such as ACL tears, rotator cuff tears, and meniscus tears), carpal tunnel syndrome, and tendonitis or bursitis. Dr. Kopka addresses many musculoskeletal problems, aiming to restore function and reduce pain.

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

Recovery time after orthopedic surgery varies significantly depending on the specific procedure, the patient's overall health, and their adherence to the rehabilitation plan. Minor procedures might involve a recovery of a few weeks, while major surgeries like total joint replacements can take several months for full recovery. Dr. Kopka will discuss the anticipated recovery timeline during the pre-operative consultation.

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

In Alberta, a referral from a family doctor or another specialist is usually required to see an Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Kopka for consultations and surgical treatments covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP). This ensures the consultation is appropriate and that Dr. Kopka has the necessary medical history. Speak with your primary care physician if you believe you need an orthopedic assessment.

What does an Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Kopka do?

An Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Kopka is a medical doctor specializing in the musculoskeletal system (bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles, and nerves). They diagnose, treat, and prevent injuries and diseases affecting this system. They use both surgical (joint replacements, fracture repair) and non-surgical (medication, injections, physiotherapy) methods to restore function, alleviate pain, and improve quality of life.

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

Treatment for fractures depends on the type and severity. Non-surgical treatment may involve realignment and immobilization with a cast or brace. Surgical treatment (internal or external fixation using plates, screws, or pins) may be necessary for complex fractures or those unlikely to heal well non-surgically. Dr. Kopka will determine the best approach.

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

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

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

Your first visit will include a comprehensive assessment: a discussion of your medical history, the problem, and its impact on your life. Dr. Kopka will perform a physical examination and review any imaging. Based on this, she will discuss diagnostic impressions, potential investigations, and treatment options (surgical or non-surgical), working with you to set goals.

Are services provided by an Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Kopka covered by provincial health insurance (e.g., Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP))?

Most consultations and medically necessary procedures by a registered Orthopedic Surgeon are covered by AHCIP with a valid health card and appropriate referral. Diagnostic imaging is usually covered. However, some items (braces, orthotics, certain injections) may have associated costs. Inquire with the clinic about potential out-of-pocket expenses and check your private insurance coverage.

213-300 Old Canmore Rd
Canmore, AB, T1W 0L5

Phone: (403) 760-2897

Dr. Michaela Kopka 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: 016452

Verify registration with The College of Physicians & Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA): https://search.cpsa.ca/PhysicianProfile?e=99d621c9-7337-4079-8b6f-475839c82b96&i=780

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