Dr Jason Ward: planning orthopaedic care around your goals
Walking comfortably, playing a round of golf or keeping up with grandchildren can mean more to a patient than a clinical measurement alone. These everyday goals provide a useful starting point for discussions about orthopaedic treatment.
A background in hip, knee and shoulder surgery
Dr Jason Ward graduated from Flinders University in 1996 and became a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons in 2005. His orthopaedic interests include surgery of the hip, knee and shoulder.
His further training has included the anterior approach to hip replacement and robotic-assisted partial and total knee replacement. Continuing professional education forms part of his approach to keeping surgical knowledge and skills up to date.
Start with what you want to regain
Joint pain can affect people in very different ways. One person may be most concerned about interrupted sleep, while another wants to manage a physical job or return to a favourite activity. Describing those priorities helps make a consultation more focused.
It can be useful to bring a short list of the tasks you find difficult, the treatments already tried and the changes you would most value. These details give context to examination and imaging findings.
Understanding the treatment choices
A surgical consultation provides an opportunity to consider available options. Ask what each option is intended to improve, what the limitations are and how it compares with continuing non-surgical treatment.
For someone considering anterior hip replacement or robotic-assisted knee surgery, the suitability of the technique should be discussed alongside the condition of the joint and personal circumstances.
Recovery belongs in the conversation
The operation is only one stage of treatment. Rehabilitation, time away from work, transport and help at home can all influence the experience of recovery. Discuss these practical matters before making a decision so expectations are clear.
For shoulder problems such as a rotator cuff tear, ask how treatment could affect lifting, reaching and sleep, and what the rehabilitation programme would involve. Goals should reflect your everyday needs as well as the demands of sport or work.
Find current consultation details
Visit Dr Ward’s doctor profile for current appointment information. Bring your referral, relevant investigations and questions so you can use the consultation to understand both the options and the next steps.
Meet Dr Jason Ward
Dr Jason Ward introduces his professional background, surgical interests and focus on patients’ individual goals.