Dr. John Taras

Dr. John Taras: An Orthopedic Surgeon in Burnsville

Dr. John Taras is an orthopedic surgeon based in Burnsville, specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of musculoskeletal conditions. As an orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Taras has undergone extensive training and education to provide comprehensive care for patients with bone, muscle, and joint-related issues.

Training and Education

Dr. Taras’s journey to becoming an orthopedic surgeon began with four years of undergraduate studies, followed by four years of medical school. He earned a Doctor of Medicine (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathy (DO) degree, which provided him with a solid foundation in medical sciences. His education included both traditional medical school and osteopathic training, which emphasizes a whole-person approach to care, addressing the mind, body, and spirit.

After completing medical school, Dr. Taras embarked on a five-year orthopedic residency program. This hands-on training in a clinical setting allowed him to gain practical experience in diagnosing and treating various musculoskeletal conditions. To further enhance his skills, Dr. Taras completed a one- or two-year fellowship in orthopedic surgery, specializing in a specific area such as joint replacement, sports medicine, or spinal surgery.

Skills and Competencies

Dr. Taras is highly skilled in both nonsurgical and surgical techniques. He is adept at diagnosing and treating a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions, including arthritis, joint pain, trauma, back pain, muscle strains, and sports injuries. His expertise extends to performing complex surgeries such as joint replacements, fracture repairs, and spinal deformity corrections.

Areas of Specialization

Dr. Taras specializes in several areas of orthopedics, including:

• Upper Extremity: Conditions affecting the shoulders, elbows, wrists, and hands.
• Foot and Ankle: Issues related to the feet and ankles, including fractures, sprains, and degenerative conditions.
• Spine: Conditions affecting the spine, such as herniated discs, spinal stenosis, and scoliosis.
• Sports Medicine: Injuries and conditions related to sports and physical activities, including ligament sprains, tendonitis, and fractures.

Treatment Approaches

Dr. Taras’s approach to patient care is comprehensive and personalized. He often begins with nonsurgical therapies such as physical therapy, pain management, and injections to alleviate symptoms. If these methods are ineffective, he may recommend surgical interventions. Dr. Taras is committed to explaining the risks and benefits of each treatment option to ensure that patients make informed decisions about their care.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the difference between an orthopedic specialist and an orthopedic surgeon?
A: An orthopedic specialist is a medical provider who has completed a residency in orthopedic surgery or a fellowship in orthopedics. They are skilled in diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal conditions and can provide both nonsurgical and surgical treatments. An orthopedic surgeon, on the other hand, is specifically trained and certified to perform surgical procedures on the musculoskeletal system.

Q: What conditions does Dr. Taras treat?
A: Dr. Taras treats a variety of musculoskeletal conditions, including arthritis, joint pain, trauma, back pain, muscle strains, and sports injuries.

Q: Does Dr. Taras perform nonsurgical treatments?
A: Yes, Dr. Taras often begins with nonsurgical therapies such as physical therapy, pain management, and injections before considering surgical options.

Q: How long does it take to become an orthopedic surgeon?
A: Becoming an orthopedic surgeon typically requires up to 14 years of education and training after high school, including four years of undergraduate studies, four years of medical school, and five years of orthopedic residency. Additional fellowship training may also be pursued.

Dr. John Taras in Burnsville is a highly trained and experienced orthopedic surgeon dedicated to providing top-notch care for patients with musculoskeletal conditions. His extensive education, specialized skills, and personalized approach make him an excellent choice for those seeking comprehensive orthopedic care.