Dr. Stephanie Ann Coupal

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

Degenerative Joint Diseases

• Avascular Necrosis (Osteonecrosis): Treating bone death caused by a loss of blood supply, commonly affecting the hip, knee, or shoulder, which can lead to joint collapse.
• Osteoarthritis: Comprehensive treatment including non-surgical options (medication, injections, therapy) and surgical joint replacement when indicated.

Bone Joint Disorders General

• Bone Infections (Osteomyelitis - Surgical Debridement): Operative treatment to remove infected bone and tissue.
• Tendonitis and Bursitis (Persistent/Severe): Procedures such as debridement or bursectomy when indicated.

Traumatic Injuries

• Fractures (Broken Bones): Comprehensive care for broken bones, ensuring proper alignment, healing, and restoration of function.
• Sprains and Strains: Diagnosing and treating ligament sprains (stretching or tearing of ligaments) and muscle/tendon strains (injuries to muscles or tendons).
• Dislocations: Treatment for acute joint instability caused by traumatic displacement of articular surfaces.

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.
• Ligament Tears (e.g., ACL, MCL, Rotator Cuff): Specialized care for common sports-related ligamentous injuries.
• Meniscus Tears: Treating a common knee injury that can cause pain, swelling, and mechanical symptoms.

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. Coupal, 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): Surgical replacement of the knee joint, including total knee arthroplasty and unicompartmental (partial) knee replacement, for severe arthritis or injury.
• Diagnostic Imaging Interpretation (Musculoskeletal): Utilizing advanced imaging to accurately diagnose fractures, soft tissue injuries, arthritis, and other musculoskeletal pathologies.
• Non-Operative Orthopedic Care: Comprehensive non-surgical management strategies to alleviate pain, improve function, and promote healing.
• Therapeutic Joint and Soft Tissue Injections: Minimally invasive procedures to deliver medication directly to the affected area for conditions like arthritis, tendinitis, or bursitis.
• General Orthopedic Surgical Procedures: Performing a wide range of surgical interventions for various musculoskeletal conditions affecting different parts of the body.

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

• For those individuals challenged by the daily effects of a growth or lump on one of their bones or in their muscles, Dr. Coupal offers tailored strategies and effective treatments to reach improved hand or foot function for daily activities. This positive change can mean rediscovering the simple joy of lifting groceries, a child, or other everyday objects.
• Patients presenting with their fingers getting stuck in a bent position (trigger finger) can find lasting relief and achieve the important outcome of successful removal or treatment of a bone or soft tissue tumor under Dr. Coupal's experienced care. This frequently allows them to resume reaching overhead or behind their back comfortably (for shoulder issues) without the former limitations or discomfort.
• If a bunion on their foot that's causing a lot of pain has unfortunately put gardening, doing housework, or performing yard work on hold or made it less enjoyable, Dr. Coupal works closely with patients towards attaining learning strategies to prevent re-injury or manage their chronic condition, effectively helping them regain their previous level of physical function and confidence.

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

Dr. Coupal's orthopedic clinic in Edmonton is situated in the S Central: University of Alberta, Garneau, Windsor Park neighborhood. The clinic is conveniently located near Main Campus and is accessible via Edmonton Transit Service (ETS) (LRT, Bus). Please inquire about parking options if you have mobility concerns.

What does an Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Coupal do?

An Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Coupal is a medical doctor (physician) specializing 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. Orthopedic Surgeons use both surgical methods (like joint replacements, fracture repair, arthroscopy) and non-surgical methods (like medication, injections, bracing, or recommending physiotherapy). Their goal is to restore function, alleviate pain, and improve quality of life.

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

Your first visit will involve a comprehensive musculoskeletal assessment. This includes a detailed discussion of your medical history, the specific problem, how it started, what makes it better or worse, and its impact on daily life. Dr. Coupal will review previous treatments and perform a thorough physical examination, assessing range of motion, strength, stability, and tenderness. Any prior imaging will be reviewed. Based on this, Dr. Coupal will discuss diagnostic impressions, may recommend further investigations, and outline potential treatment options (surgical and non-surgical), working with you to establish goals.

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

Joint replacement surgery, or arthroplasty, replaces damaged or arthritic parts of a joint (hip, knee, shoulder) with artificial components. Dr. Coupal might recommend it if you have severe joint pain and loss of function due to advanced osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or significant injury, and non-surgical treatments aren't providing adequate relief. The goal is to reduce pain, improve mobility, and enhance quality of life.

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

Recovery time varies greatly depending on the type of surgery, the joint or bone involved, your age and health, and your 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. Coupal will discuss the expected timeline during the pre-operative consultation.

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

Dr. Coupal treats fractures based on the type and severity, location, and your overall health. Non-surgical treatment may involve realigning the bone and immobilizing it with a cast or brace. Surgical treatment might be necessary for complex fractures, open fractures, or fractures unlikely to heal well with casting. Surgical options include internal fixation (plates, screws) or external fixation (a frame outside the body).

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

Most physician consultations, medically necessary assessments, and approved surgical procedures by a registered Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Coupal are typically covered by provincial health plans such as AHCIP in AB, provided you have a valid health card and appropriate referral. Diagnostic imaging 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 regarding coverage for adjunctive therapies or devices.

8440 112 ST NW, Stollery Children's Hospital
Edmonton, AB, T6G 2B7

Phone: (780) 407-6198

Dr. Stephanie Ann Coupal 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: 024382

Verify registration with The College of Physicians & Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA): https://search.cpsa.ca/PhysicianProfile?e=731163d3-1838-4eec-aa8c-9064039f0995&i=322

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