Welcome
Specialties
Anatomical
Hip, Knee, Shoulder
Treatment
Arthritis, Arthroscopic Surgery, Joint Replacement, Sports Medicine, Trauma/Fractures
My approach to treating patients
Welcome, I created this web site to familiarize you with my orthopaedic practice, dedicated staff, and the services that I provide at Sports Medicine & Joint Care West Michigan.
As an orthopaedic surgeon with more than twelve years of experience in clinical practice, I take a highly personal approach to caring for my patients. During my career, I've gained an immeasurable amount of experience in many aspects of general orthopaedics and have extensive experience in treating injuries and arthritis of the knee, hip and shoulder. I specialize in performing arthroscopy and a minimally invasive knee replacement surgery, which reduces the length of the incision and the trauma to the underlying tissues and helps speed recovery time. Over the past few years, I have had the opportunity to teach this new technique to other surgeons across the country.
Whether you're making the decision for orthopaedic care, or would just like to expand your knowledge, I hope this site helps you become informed and more confident about the incredible realm of orthopaedic treatments available.
I believe in meeting patients' individual needs through comprehensive evaluation and treatment designed to help them achieve an active, pain-free lifestyle. Many musculoskeletal conditions can be treated by non-surgical techniques--surgery is just one treatment option. In my care of patients, I combine leading edge techniques with proven traditional methods to provide my patients with the best orthopaedic care possible.
I work to develop a partnership with my patients. On my part, this begins with listening. And one of the most important things I need to know is how the physical problem affects my patients' life. We develop a dialogue, through which my patients understand the diagnostic process, their own unique problem, their treatment choices, and the recovery process. Patients help to guide and direct the diagnostic and treatment activities.
I believe that knowledgeable patients make the best decisions about their own treatment. That's why I explain every step of the diagnostic process. Next, I want my patients to understand their condition: How it developed and how various treatment approaches can improve or repair the problem. When we consider treatment alternatives, I present a realistic outlook on the results we can achieve. I'll also be frank about any risks that might be involved. If a non-surgical option is available, I'll explain that avenue in depth.
Thank you for visiting this web site! If you'd like to learn more about our orthopaedic practice, please click the "Patient Information and Office Forms" button on this web site.
Please feel free to contact us anytime at 269/978044 with any questions, comments or concerns. We'd love to hear from you.
Robert S. Schaefer, M.D. Fellow, American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons Board Certified, American Board of Orthopaedic Surgeons
