Charlene LaskyJoint pain or chronic back issues can quietly take over your life. Something as simple as climbing stairs or even getting out of bed can start to feel like a daily struggle.
I’ve seen friends push through pain for years. They hoped it would just “go away”, only to realise later that early treatment could have saved them time and money.
That’s why I put together this guide to some of the most trusted orthopedic specialists in San Diego. These are the doctors and clinics that locals rely on for accurate diagnoses, clear treatment plans, and long-term results.
How much do orthopedic specialists charge in San Diego?
Orthopedic specialists in San Diego typically charge between $150 and $350 for consultations, depending on the clinic, the specialist’s experience, and whether imaging is needed. Diagnostic tests such as X-rays or MRIs can range from $300 to $3,000.
1. San Diego Orthopaedic Associates
Address: 4060 Fourth Ave, 7th floor, CA 92103
Contact: +1 619 299 8500
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
- Saturday to Sunday: Closed
San Diego Orthopaedic Associates impressed me from the very first appointment when I reached out for help overcoming a stubborn musculoskeletal injury that had been limiting my daily activities.
Their expertise, paired with a thorough explanation of options, immediately put me at ease and reassured me that I was in the right hands.
It quickly became clear this isn’t just any clinic. Founded by Dr. Frank West in 1947, it is the longest-established orthopaedic practice in San Diego County, and that legacy shows in the team’s organization, efficiency, and experience.
What stands out most is their ability to combine advanced care with a strong focus on minimally invasive treatments and faster recovery.
My plan included targeted technical procedures alongside non-invasive therapies, and I never felt rushed or pressured. Each step was explained clearly, including expectations and recovery time.
They offer specialties such as sports medicine, hand and foot care, and joint replacement. They also provide minimally invasive surgery and interventional pain management to ensure expert care for every condition.
The only drawback is appointment scheduling, which occasionally takes longer than expected overall.
I finally saw a doctor who listened and understood my case
“It was a wonderful experience to meet a doctor who actually listens! After seeing at least 6-10 doctors over a 6 year period with no results and a lot of frustration, I finally saw a doctor who listened and understood my case. From the beginning of my contact with staff to my treatment, everyone was warm and friendly and happy to help me with my questions. I was referred to Dr. Tanaka by my physical therapist and a good friend who also saw him and really liked him. I highly recommend Dr. Tanaka. You won’t be sorry!”
- Maria Suggett, Google Review
Professional, very knowledgeable, and extremely kind to me
“My experience was outstanding. Dr. Tanaka was professional, very knowledgeable and extremely kind to me. Took the time to listen and explain my injury. I wish I didn’t have to meet him, but under my accident circumstances, I’m happy to have him.
Dr. Thank you for accepting me as your patient, I feel blessed.”
- Eugena Engh, Google Review
2. California Orthopaedic Institute (COI)
Address: 7485 Mission Valley Rd #104a, CA 92108
Contact: +1 619 291 8930
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Friday: 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM
- Saturday to Sunday: Closed
California Orthopaedic Institute immediately impressed me with how they treat every patient as more than just a case. Their approach is about providing precise, high-quality care that really makes a difference in daily life.
COI was established almost fifty years ago and now boasts a highly skilled team ready to handle almost any orthopaedic need.
Their facilities are top-notch. They have exam and treatment suites, X-ray and MRI capabilities, and an occupational therapy program. There are also rehab services, an outpatient surgery center with three operating rooms, and a pain management suite.
I especially loved their “paperless” office. Everything from patient registration to prescriptions and lab tests runs through an electronic medical record, keeping things efficient while making communication among the care team seamless.
The physicians here are carefully selected for outstanding academic achievement and quality care. Their expertise spans surgical and non-surgical treatments, hand and upper extremity issues, and spine injuries.
They are also pros at Independent Medical Examinations and workers’ compensation cases. On the downside, they don’t offer on-site emergency orthopedic care, which some patients might find essential.
My whole experience was very positive
“It has been a few years since my last visit to California Orthopedic Institute and this was my first visit with Dr. Kansara. My whole experience was very positive beginning with the ease/availability of convenient free parking then with the caring, friendly check-in process. However, most importantly, Dr. Kansara was positive, welcoming, caring, knowledgeable and instructive. He asked several clarifying questions regarding the pain I was experiencing and then gave clear, informative guidance. He was very gracious and upbeat which is appreciated when going to any doctor but perhaps most appreciated when some level of pain is being addressed. I would give Dr. Kansara very high marks based upon his positive energy and knowledge regarding his “bedside manner.”
- Ricardo C, Google Review
I couldn’t have asked for a better surgeon
“There are no words that fully encapsulate how amazing of a practice California Orthopedic Institute truly is. I have seen a couple of their doctors and had surgery by Dr. Quinn and everyone, literally everyone, I have encountered are at the top of their game. They legitimately seem to enjoy what they do, and do it well. Dr. Quinn took wonderful care of my foot, I couldn’t have asked for a better surgeon. The entire office from the receptionists to medical assistants/Ortho techs, rad techs, everyone has been friendly, kind, and complete professionals. They even managed to accommodate my unreasonable schedule for surgery when I had a ridiculously narrow window to get it done.
They really make an effort to see you, not just as a patient they get to bill for, but as a whole human being reliant on their expertise, which is a rare thing in healthcare nowadays. And they definitely are the experts.”
- Michele La Badie, Google Review
3. Ortho 1
Address: 5643 Copley Dr, Suite 300, CA 92111
Contact: +1 858 455 9942
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday: 7:30 AM – 5:00 PM
- Saturday to Sunday: Closed
When my friend needed expert orthopedic care for persistent joint pain and a sports injury, Ortho 1 Medical Group immediately stood out for its patient-focused approach and emphasis on fast, safe recovery.
Their minimally invasive treatments reduce downtime, allowing patients to get back to daily life quickly. They offer ankle, wrist, and shoulder arthroscopy, repairing damage without the risks of traditional open surgery.
Their back pain treatments are top-notch, designed to relieve discomfort and improve overall quality of life.
Beyond arthroscopy, the surgeons are trained in total joint replacement and open reduction internal fixation. They also perform advanced arthroscopic procedures, giving patients confidence even in the most complex cases.
Athletes will appreciate Ortho 1’s sports medicine expertise. Its innovative diagnostics and minimally invasive procedures help injured patients return to their sport safely and efficiently.
Their team also emphasizes patient education, ensuring everyone understands their treatment plan and recovery steps.
The only downside is that Ortho 1 does not provide comprehensive pediatric orthopedic services, which can be important for families seeking a single clinic for all ages.
I feel great relief about my injury and I am happy with my results
“Dr. Downing is an excellent doctor in his medical field. I had a severe dislocation on my wrist with fractured bones. My injury was rare and very complicated to fix. Dr. Downing assured me he would do his best and he absolutely did!
I feel a great relief about my injury and am happy with my results. I definitely recommend Dr. Downing in helping you restore your health to its max potential.
The medical assistants and staff are all very supportive and welcoming. They treated me with care and patience. If I needed anything they were very quick to respond.”
- Abel Montoya, Google Review
Every staff member is friendly & happy
“This office is very pleasant. Every staff member is friendly & happy. Dr. Kane listens and takes action to support you. He has requested physical therapy for my bi-lateral carpal tunnel recovery every visit. Happy to say i have had a total of 43 PT appointments btw both hands after surgeries. Though i still have pillar pain I am doing good. After 6 months off work I am now returning to work. He has been so supportive & allowed necessary time to recover as my job requires an 8 hr day of computer typing. Though released to full duty he has still scheduled me for a follow up to check how it’s going. He is of good nature as well. Though referred by Workers Comp Athens, he supports his patients first.”
- Suzanne Gamez, Google Review
4. United Medical Doctors (Mark Schultzel, MD, MBA)
Address: 3750 Convoy St, Suite 201, CA 92111
Contact: +1 858 526 3842
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
- Saturday to Sunday: Closed
I recently saw Dr. Mark Schultzel, and it didn’t take long to understand why he’s considered San Diego’s premier orthopedic surgeon. From the first visit, I felt confident I was in capable, caring hands.
What stood out most was the depth of his expertise. Dr. Schultzel treats everything from minimally invasive arthroscopic procedures to complex joint replacements.
He also uses 3-D printing, spatial computing, and augmented reality to plan surgery with impressive precision. Nothing felt overdone, just modern care delivered with confidence.
Despite the high-tech side of his work, he never lost the human touch. He listened carefully, explained options clearly, and made sure I felt comfortable with each decision. That balance between cutting-edge skill and patient-centered care really sets him apart.
He’s affiliated with Sharp, Scripps, and Palomar Health, which added peace of mind. He’s also a member of AAOS, the American Orthopaedic Association, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons, and is board-certified by the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery.
One thing to note is that the practice doesn’t offer in-house physical therapy, so rehabilitation is handled externally after treatment and recovery planning.
Kind, pleasant, and professional, and an amazing clinician
“I have consulted Dr. Schultzel recently after a fractured Left proximal humerus fracture.
He literally spoke with the ER physician to advise him on which specific X-ray views were needed, and saw me in his office within a couple of days. He is kind, pleasant, and professional, and an amazing clinician. I saw him again in follow up 1 week after the initial visit, and just a week ago again for my last X-ray. He is always forthcoming with information, advise on physical therapy exercises; and just a pleasure. Dr Mark Schultzel is the best!”
- Ada Marin, Google Review
I am full of gratitude for the success of my surgery
“Yesterday I visited Dr Mark Schultzel For a follow up appointment . Last November,, I had a horrific sudden fall that resulted in a broken shoulder ball and shattered bones. I was in terrible pain. and was ultimately referred to Dr. Mark since I needed a complex surgery. Dr. Mark skillfully executed my very complicated surgery to save my arm and improve function . Orthopedic surgeons always have to deal with people in pain, And I’m sure that can be challenging , but he and his staff, including Lee, Daphne, , Myron, Chris and Paul All took excellent care of me with love and compassion. I am full of gratitude at the success of my surgery, but mostly for their compassionate and skilled care I would love to give them 100 stars !!!”
- Constance-Rose Johnson, Google Review
5. Orthopaedic Trauma & Fracture Specialists
Address: 7510 Clairemont Mesa Blvd, Suite 100, CA 92111
Contact: +1 858 278 8031
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
- Friday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM
- Saturday to Sunday: Closed
Orthopaedic Trauma & Fracture Specialists is one of those names you’ll come across often when searching for expert orthopaedic care.
They’ve built a strong reputation for specializing in treating a wide range of routine and complex orthopedic problems. These include traumatic fractures to intricate bone injuries that need a high level of skill and precision.
When I spoke to a friend who needed care after an accident, they were really impressed with how thorough the team was.
The specialists emphasized specialty care and aimed to serve patients beyond the community standard, ensuring they weren’t just another case on the schedule.
Hearing that made me look into what they do, and I was impressed by their approach, which isn’t just about treating the immediate injury. It’s about using all available resources to return each patient to their pre-injury function.
They believe in a multidisciplinary approach, collaborating with fields such as orthotics/prosthetics and physical and occupational therapy. They also work closely with subspecialists and other experts to support healing from every angle.
However, one limitation to be aware of is that the practice is focused specifically on trauma and fracture care, and doesn’t offer elective surgeries for chronic conditions such as severe osteoarthritis.
His explanations about my injury were so thorough
“I have seen many Doctors over my 74 years. Dr. Jeffery Smith is a quantum level above most. The care and treatment I received from him was exception… very compassionate and caring. His explanations about my injury were so thorough and easily understood, as were the exams and plans for my treatment and recovery. I was so lucky that he was on trauma call when I was brought into the emergency room. The follow up visits to his office were also exceptional. The staff is very welcoming and efficient. Again, I was very lucky to have him take care of me and am happy to say that my recovery was relatively easy and complete. Hats off to Dr. Smith and his team.”
- Corey Paul, Google Review
Talented, compassionate people, and knowledgeable
“My Mom had surgery in November, and at our first follow- up, we were very pleased by the way the staff treated us.. They are talented,compassionate people, and knowledgeable and well- organized..Dr.Jeffery Smith, Mom’s surgeon, is very engaging with the patients, and clearly took a great liking to my Mom and me…As he described my Mom’s injury, we were very impressed with the great work he did in its repair..It has been a pleasure being taken care of by this group…”
- Joanna Gladden, Google Review
