5 Best Orthopaedic Specialists in Calgary That Even Local Athletes Line up For
I used to have this little kink in my lower back that just wouldn’t go away. I’ve tried massage, acupuncture, heck, even Reiki treatment—all in vain.
So, when my friend referred me to his orthopedic specialist, I didn’t really have high hopes. Wouldn’t you know it, after a few sessions, it was like my nagging ache was never even there!
I don’t think I’ll ever take being pain-free for granted again. And since a lot of my friends have similar issues, I created a list of the top orthopedic doctors in Calgary—let’s all banish our aches and pains together.
How much do orthopedic specialists charge in Calgary?
In Calgary, orthopedic specialists typically charge $150 to $300 for an initial private consultation, with follow-ups costing less.
Note that medically necessary visits are covered by Alberta Health.
1. Alberta Hip and Knee Clinic
Address: Gulf Canada Square, 401 9 Ave SW #335
Phone: +1 403-266-3471
Business hours:
- Mon – Fri: 8 AM–4 PM
Alberta Hip and Knee Clinic is known for being one of the top providers of full-spectrum preoperative and postoperative care in Alberta. With 29 orthopedic surgeons and specialists, you’ll never feel like you’re going through anything alone.
It starts when your Primary Care Clinician or Family Doctor sends in a referral. If you’re accepted, you’ll receive a package in the mail with all the details, including wait time.
The clinic then gives you a call when an appointment opens up, but fair warning, this might take several months. This is because they operate exclusively within the public Alberta Health Services system—no private-pay or fast-track options.
When your turn comes, they don’t just jump straight to surgery, which we appreciate. They’ll assess whether a non-surgical or surgical plan will best support your comfort and well-being.
I have experienced significant pain relief
“Dr Ardell is an excellent surgeon. He replaced both of my hips, and I have experienced significant pain relief. Dr Ardell is not only a great surgeon he is a genuinely nice person. Thank you, Dr Ardell!” — George Lensen, Google Review
My orthopedic doctor for almost 20 years
“Dr James Powell has been my orthopedic doctor for almost 20 years. He has replaced both my hips, and I see him on an annual basis for a checkup. His professional, friendly manner has never wavered. His staff are excellent in timely appointments and communication. If you’re lucky to get a referral to Dr J Powell, you will not be disappointed.”— Debbie Dowling, Google Review
2. Gateway Surgery
Address: 110 Quarry Pk Blvd S E #200
Phone: +1 403-910-4585
Business hours:
- Mon – Thurs: 8 AM–4 PM
- Friday: 7:30 AM–3:30 PM
Gateway Surgery is a Canadian network of health professionals dedicated to supporting patients who want private surgery, from the first point of contact to recovery.
A great perk here is that, unlike other clinics that require a referral, you can book your consultation directly—no family doctor or healthcare practitioner required.
During consultation, your orthopedic doctor will review your medical history and previous treatments you’ve tried. From there, they build a personalized plan, including a rundown of private surgical options available.
We love that they do frequent follow-ups after surgery; they handle wound checks virtually or in person, depending on what works best for you.
Of course, every clinic has rough spots, and Gateway is no exception. A few customers have told us about delayed or unanswered requests.
Restored my life with a new hip replacement
“Gateway Surgery has restored my life with a new hip replacement. I have new hope for a future of pain-free movement. I am very grateful for the wonderful care they have provided my family and me.” — Karen Meldrum, Google Review
I haven’t had a bit of pain, even day of surgery
“Had a total left knee replacement in May 2025. This team and facility are above and beyond. Dr Nelson was amazing, and did an amazing surgery. I haven’t had a bit of pain, even on days of surgery. Taylor is amazing with all her help, and the entire team would highly recommend I have bone on both knees. I had a 1-2 year wait in public, and I was in within a month after first contact. Yes, it’s not cheap, but I cannot say enough good things about my entire experience. One thing is, I wish my husband could’ve visited me after the surgery, but I was out within 24 hours and a bit. All the best to anyone who decides to go to this team.” — Barbara Pilgrim, Google Review
3. The Knee Clinic
Address: 10333 Southport Rd SW, Suite 535
Phone: +1 403-457-5633
Business hours:
- Mon – Thurs: 7 AM–7 PM
- Friday: 7 AM–5 PM
- Saturday: 10 AM–2 PM
The Knee Clinic, Alberta’s only private knee care center, was created in 2010 to fill a gap in specialized care. Their goal is to get people the expert help they need within days, not months.
Naturally, they offer an impressive lineup of knee joint injections, including Monovisc, Hyaluronic Acid, PRP, Cortisone, you name it.
In addition to shots, they have a range of rehabilitation services. This is perfect if you’re prepping for or recovering from a surgery—or trying to avoid one altogether.
The best part is their custom knee bracing options; they’re typically covered by extended health plans, often close to 100%!
With all these positives, there is one obvious trade-off: this facility has a very narrow focus: your knees. For shoulder, hip, or ankle care, you’ll want to go elsewhere.
My life has changed completely
“I highly recommend the knee clinic. I could barely walk in with a very bad knee. Today I am 100% and back golfing and skiing. My life has changed completely.” — Don Allan, Google Review
Got me back to my daily activities
“Everyone who works here is lovely. After 4 months of not being able to walk, Dr Fischer has now got me back to my daily activities, back at the gym, and almost completely pain-free. Incredibly grateful for all of the help I’ve received.” — Alexandra Drzewiecka, Google Review
4. Access Orthopaedics
Address: 110 Quarry Pk Blvd S E Suite 200
Phone: +1 587-355-3090
Business hours:
- Mon – Fri: 7:30 AM–5 PM
Access Orthopaedics is composed of an inspiring team of orthopedic surgeons, neurosurgeons, physiatrists, sports doctors, PCPs, and physiotherapists.
This facility serves as a central triage for several shoulder and elbow surgeons in Calgary—they even run a spine assessment program. Meaning, they can start providing non-operative management sooner.
You can start by booking an in-person, virtual, or phone consultation. Any multidisciplinary assessment required is covered with a valid Alberta Healthcare card.
Afterwards, they create a customized care plan that fits your needs. This may include pain management procedures like injections or physiotherapy, or a surgical referral if you’re a good candidate.
While there’s a lot we love about their approach, we didn’t really like their lack of follow-up, according to former patients.
The team at Access Orthopaedic is incredible
“The team at Access Orthopaedic is incredible. I had major shoulder surgery in March and have been doing my rehab with Jack on the physio team. Jack’s knowledge, experience and patience have made this process as good as it can be. Jack has been able to adapt my program to how my body has responded, but I feel I am turning a corner now and am excited for the next steps. I can’t recommend Jack enough to anyone looking for a physiotherapist with deep knowledge of shoulder rehabilitation.” — jamie marino, Google Review
Helped me recover from persistent lower back pain
“I’m so glad I found Rachele again! She helped me recover from persistent lower back pain with expert care, kindness, and exercises that truly work. I even followed her to her new clinic because her treatment made such a difference in my recovery — she’s truly the best!” — Sara Mahrokh, Google Review
5. Group23 Sports Medicine Clinic
Address: 147 Canada Olympic Rd S W #130
Phone: +1 403-284-4040
Business hours:
- Mon – Fri: 7 AM–7 PM
- Saturday: 9 AM–5 PM
Group23 Sports Medicine Clinic definitely lives up to its name. They help people overcome physical challenges, be it injuries from hardcore sports or from everyday life.
Their sports medicine doctors are certified by CASEM—the gold standard for this field. In fact, they serve as team doctors and medical decision-makers for pro sports teams and elite athletes.
A unique offering they have is their Accelerated Access Sports Injury Clinic. It’s designed especially for people who’ve had an acute sports or activity-related injury in the last three months.
Fee-wise, their appointments with both Sports Medicine Physicians and Orthopedic Surgeons are covered if you have a valid Alberta Health card. They also accept health cards from across Canada, except Quebec.
A tiny downside is their rude front desk staff, who rubbed a few clients the wrong way.
Really made a difference in my physical ability
“This sports medicine clinic really made a difference in my physical ability to carry out my everyday physical challenges and recreational activities with less pain. The front-end staff are professional and pleasant, as are the support staff to the orthopedic sports doctors. All orthopedic specialists I received treatment from were pleasant and professional, but I want to give special mention to Doctor Wadhwa, who is a consummate professional who explains your condition while administering applicable treatment and lays out future possible treatment options. I am fortunate and thankful.” — Gordon Schlagel, Google Review
I saw massive progress in my recovery
“Highly recommend for physiotherapy. It was recommended to me by my boyfriend after I had a bad snowboarding accident. I started seeing Monique, and after only a few sessions, I saw massive progress in my recovery, and now, I’m able to do my normal physical activities without pain!” — Nadine Corbett, Google Review