Dr. Stephen Joel Lewis – Orthopedic Surgeon | Toronto, ON

Dr. Stephen Joel Lewis is a Orthopedic Surgeon. Practicing at St. Catharines Site in Toronto, ON, Dr. Lewis is dedicated to providing high-quality, patient-focused care in Orthopedic Surgery. Dr. Lewis is licensed by The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) and adheres to the highest professional and ethical standards of surgical practice in ON. Dr. Lewis 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. Stephen Joel Lewis earned a Medical Degree from Mcgill University Faculty Of Medicine And Health Sciences, graduating in 1990. Subsequently, Dr. Lewis completed extensive specialty training and achieved Fellowship with the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada (FRCSC) in Orthopedic Surgery. Dr. Lewis brings extensive clinical and surgical experience to the practice. Dr. Lewis's expertise encompasses Specialty Practice in Orthopedic Surgery. Dr. Lewis 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. Lewis's surgical practice philosophy include: providing clear explanations of conditions and treatment options to empower patients in their healthcare journey; a patient-centered approach, ensuring that treatment decisions are made collaboratively with the patient's goals and lifestyle in mind; a dedication to surgical excellence and achieving optimal outcomes for every patient. Dr. Lewis is fluent in English and also offers consultations in French.

As an Orthopedic Surgeon, Dr. Stephen Joel Lewis 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.
• Shoulder Instability and Dislocations: Treating recurrent shoulder dislocations and instability, often involving arthroscopic repair of the labrum (Bankart repair) or other stabilizing procedures.

Traumatic Injuries

• 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.
• Complex Musculoskeletal Trauma: Advanced surgical management for high-energy trauma affecting the musculoskeletal system.

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.
• Nonunions and Malunions of Fractures: Surgical correction of fractures that have failed to heal (nonunion) or have healed in an incorrect position (malunion).

Degenerative Joint Diseases

• Osteoarthritis: Comprehensive treatment including non-surgical options (medication, injections, therapy) and surgical joint replacement when indicated.
• Avascular Necrosis (Osteonecrosis): Interventions may include core decompression or joint replacement depending on the stage.

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

• Hip Replacement Surgery (Total & Partial): Surgical reconstruction of the hip joint, including total hip arthroplasty and hemiarthroplasty, for conditions like osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or hip fractures.
• Comprehensive Orthopedic Consultation: Expert evaluation to diagnose injuries and disorders of the bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles, and nerves.
• Diagnostic Imaging Interpretation (Musculoskeletal): Integrating imaging findings with clinical assessment to guide treatment decisions.
• Shoulder Replacement Surgery: Performing total shoulder arthroplasty and reverse total shoulder arthroplasty for conditions like osteoarthritis, rotator cuff tear arthropathy, and complex fractures.
• 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. Lewis. 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. Stephen Joel Lewis adhere to the scope of practice for Orthopedic Surgeons in ON and the standards of The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO).

At St. Catharines Site, the focus is on partnering with you to restore function, alleviate pain, and help you return to your desired activities. Dr. Lewis frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Through Dr. Lewis's skilled guidance and modern surgical techniques, patients suffering from their knee pain getting so bad they can barely walk or climb stairs often find they can readily achieve a safe return to work after an injury and once again enthusiastically pursue enjoyable pastimes like standing for longer periods without discomfort.
• Patients presenting with a recent ankle sprain that isn't getting better can find lasting relief and achieve the important outcome of a well-functioning joint replacement that allows for better movement and less pain under Dr. Lewis's experienced care. This frequently allows them to resume participating in family vacations and outings that involve walking without the former limitations or discomfort.
• A key objective when treating their child being born with a clubfoot or hip problems at Dr. Lewis's welcoming clinic is achieving a clear diagnosis and understanding of their musculoskeletal condition. This directly supports a comfortable, confident, and lasting return to important activities like typing, writing, or using tools without hand or wrist pain.

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

Dr. Lewis's practice, St. Catharines Site, is situated in the Kensington Market, Chinatown, Grange Park neighborhood of Toronto. The clinic is conveniently located near US Consulate and is accessible via TTC (Subway, Streetcar, Bus). Details on parking can be provided when you book your consultation.

What can I expect at my first orthopedic consultation with Dr. Lewis at St. Catharines Site?

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), how it started, what makes it better or worse, and its impact on daily activities and quality of life. Dr. Lewis will review any 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. Lewis will discuss diagnostic impressions, may recommend further investigations, and outline potential treatment options (non-surgical and surgical), working with you to establish goals.

Are services provided by an Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Lewis covered by provincial health insurance (e.g., Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP))?

Most physician consultations, medically necessary assessments, and approved surgical procedures by a registered Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Lewis are typically covered by provincial health plans such as OHIP in ON, 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 St. Catharines Site about potential out-of-pocket costs and check with your private insurance, if any, regarding coverage for adjunctive therapies or devices.

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

Joint replacement surgery, or arthroplasty, is a procedure where damaged or arthritic parts of a joint (like the hip, knee, or shoulder) are removed and replaced with artificial components (prostheses). Dr. Lewis might recommend it if you have severe joint pain and loss of function, typically due to advanced osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or a significant injury, and non-surgical treatments are inadequate. The goal is to reduce pain, improve mobility, and enhance quality of life.

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

Yes, in ON, a referral from a family doctor (GP) or another specialist is generally required for consultations and potential surgical treatments covered by provincial health plans like OHIP. This ensures the consultation is appropriate and Dr. Lewis has necessary background information. Speak with your primary care physician or referring doctor if you believe you need an orthopedic surgical assessment.

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

Recovery time varies greatly depending on the type of surgery, the specific joint or bone, the patient's age and health, and their adherence to the post-operative rehabilitation plan. Some minor procedures may have a recovery of a few weeks, while major surgeries like total joint replacements can take several months. Dr. Lewis will discuss the expected timeline during the pre-operative consultation.

What is the policy regarding missed appointments or late cancellations at St. Catharines Site for Dr. Lewis?

We understand unforeseen circumstances can arise. However, we kindly request at least 72 business hours' notice if you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment with Dr. Lewis. This allows us to offer the appointment time to another patient. Appointments cancelled or rescheduled with less than 72 hours' notice, or missed without notification, may be subject to a cancellation fee. Please inquire about the specific fee.

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

Orthopedic Surgeons like Dr. Lewis are experts in treating all types of bone fractures. Treatment depends on the type and severity of the fracture, its location, and the patient's overall health. Non-surgical treatment may involve realigning the bone (reduction) and immobilizing it with a cast, splint, or brace. Surgical treatment might be necessary for more complex fractures, open fractures, or fractures unlikely to heal well with casting alone. Surgical options include internal fixation or external fixation. Dr. Lewis will determine the most appropriate treatment.

What does an Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Lewis do?

An Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Lewis specializes 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. They use both surgical and non-surgical methods to treat patients. Their goal is to restore function, alleviate pain, and improve quality of life.

St. Catharines Site
399 Bathurst Street, Department of Diagnostic Imaging Niagara Health System
Toronto, ON, M5T 2S8

Phone: (416) 603-5851

Dr. Stephen Joel Lewis is a licensed Orthopedic Surgeon in ON, regulated by The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) under the Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991 & Medicine Act, 1991 (Ontario).

License Number: 62300

Verify registration with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Lewis-Stephen-Joel/0048322-62300

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