Harper Hospital | Harper, KS | Primary Care

Doctor Harper: Davis Cassanda MD - An Orthopedic Specialist

Location and Overview

Located in Harper, Kansas, USA, Doctor Davis Cassanda MD is a highly skilled orthopedic specialist dedicated to providing comprehensive care for musculoskeletal conditions. As an orthopedist, Dr. Cassanda focuses on treating injuries and diseases affecting the bones, muscles, joints, and soft tissues.

Training and Education

To become an orthopedic specialist like Dr. Cassanda, one must undergo extensive education and training. This typically includes:

• Undergraduate Studies: Four years of undergraduate studies are required, laying the foundation in sciences and pre-medical courses.
• Medical School: Four years in medical school, where Dr. Cassanda would have earned either a Doctor of Medicine (MD) or a Doctor of Osteopathy (DO) degree. Osteopathic education emphasizes a whole-person approach to care, addressing the mind, body, and spirit.
• Orthopedic Residency: A five-year residency program in orthopedic surgery, providing hands-on experience in diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal conditions.
• Fellowship: Optional one- or two-year fellowships for subspecialization in areas such as sports medicine, spine surgery, or hand surgery.
• Board Certification: Dr. Cassanda would have passed an examination from a certifying organization like the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery or the American Osteopathic Board of Orthopedic Surgery to become board certified.

Skills and Competencies

Dr. Cassanda possesses a broad range of skills and competencies, including:

• Diagnostic Skills: The ability to diagnose musculoskeletal conditions through physical examinations, medical histories, and imaging studies such as X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs.
• Nonsurgical Therapies: Expertise in nonsurgical treatments like physical therapy, injections, and bracing to manage symptoms and improve function.
• Surgical Skills: Proficiency in performing surgical procedures to correct orthopedic issues, ranging from joint replacements to fracture repairs.
• Patient Education: Strong communication skills to educate patients about their conditions, treatment options, and postoperative care.

Areas of Specialization

Dr. Cassanda may specialize in various areas within orthopedics, such as:

• Sports Medicine: Treating athletes and individuals with sports-related injuries, including conditions like sprains, strains, and tendon injuries.
• Joint Replacement: Specializing in hip and knee replacements, as well as other joint surgeries to alleviate arthritis and improve mobility.
• Spine Conditions: Diagnosing and treating back and neck pain, including conditions like herniated discs and spinal stenosis.
• Trauma and Fractures: Managing acute injuries such as fractures and dislocations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What conditions does an orthopedic specialist like Dr. Cassanda treat?

An orthopedic specialist treats a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions, including arthritis, joint pain, back pain, sports injuries, and congenital conditions like scoliosis.

Do I need to see an orthopedic specialist for all musculoskeletal issues?

Not always. For minor issues, you may start with your primary care doctor, who can refer you to an orthopedic specialist if necessary. However, if you suspect a traumatic or repetitive motion injury, it is advisable to see an orthopedic specialist directly.

What can I expect during my first appointment with Dr. Cassanda?

During your first appointment, Dr. Cassanda will ask about your symptoms, medical history, and physical activity level. You may undergo a physical examination and possibly imaging studies to help diagnose your condition. Treatment plans, including nonsurgical and surgical options, will be discussed based on your diagnosis.

How long does it take to become an orthopedic specialist?

Becoming an orthopedic specialist typically requires up to 14 years of education and training after high school, including undergraduate studies, medical school, residency, and optional fellowship.

By choosing Dr. Davis Cassanda MD, patients in Harper, Kansas, can expect high-quality, specialized care for their musculoskeletal health needs.