Robert Cummings, M.D.

Robert Cummings, M.D.: An Orthopedic Surgeon in Hood River, Oregon

Robert Cummings, M.D. is an orthopedic surgeon located in Hood River, Oregon, USA. His practice focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of musculoskeletal conditions, including injuries, diseases, and deformities. As an orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Cummings specializes in the surgical and non-surgical management of a wide range of conditions affecting the bones, joints, muscles, and nerves.

Training and Education

Dr. Cummings completed his undergraduate studies at the University of Washington in Seattle, Washington. He then pursued his medical degree from the University of Washington School of Medicine. After medical school, he completed a residency in orthopedic surgery at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) Medical Center.

Skills and Competencies

Orthopedic surgeons like Dr. Cummings possess a wide range of skills and competencies, including:

• Surgical Skills: Orthopedic surgeons perform various surgical procedures, such as joint replacements, fracture repairs, and spinal surgeries. They must have a high level of precision and dexterity to perform these procedures effectively.

• Diagnostic Skills: Orthopedic surgeons must be able to diagnose a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions. They use various diagnostic tools, such as X-rays, MRIs, CT scans, and bone scans, to identify the underlying cause of a patient’s symptoms.

• Communication Skills: Orthopedic surgeons must be able to communicate effectively with their patients, explaining their diagnoses and treatment options in a way that patients can understand. They must also be able to collaborate with other healthcare professionals, such as physical therapists and nurses.

• Problem-Solving Skills: Orthopedic surgeons must be able to develop and implement effective treatment plans for their patients. They must be able to weigh the risks and benefits of different treatment options and make informed decisions based on the patient’s individual needs.

Areas of Specialization

Orthopedic surgeons like Dr. Cummings can specialize in various areas, including:

• Joint Replacement: Orthopedic surgeons specializing in joint replacement perform surgeries to replace damaged or diseased joints with artificial ones. This can include total hip replacements, total knee replacements, and shoulder replacements.

• Sports Medicine: Orthopedic surgeons specializing in sports medicine treat injuries and conditions related to athletic activities. They work with athletes to develop treatment plans that allow them to return to their sport as soon as possible.

• Pediatric Orthopedics: Orthopedic surgeons specializing in pediatric orthopedics treat conditions affecting children’s bones, joints, and muscles. This can include treating congenital conditions, such as clubfoot, as well as injuries and diseases that affect children’s growth and development.

• Spine Surgery: Orthopedic surgeons specializing in spine surgery treat conditions affecting the spine, such as herniated discs, spinal stenosis, and scoliosis. They perform surgeries to relieve pain and improve mobility.

Treatments and Medical Specialties

Dr. Cummings’ practice likely offers a wide range of treatments for various orthopedic conditions. These may include:

• Joint Replacement: Total hip replacements, total knee replacements, and shoulder replacements are common procedures performed by orthopedic surgeons.

• Arthroscopy: This minimally invasive procedure allows orthopedic surgeons to diagnose and treat joint injuries and diseases using small incisions and a camera.

• Fracture Repair: Orthopedic surgeons can repair fractures using various techniques, such as plates, screws, and rods.

• Physical Therapy: Many orthopedic conditions can be managed with physical therapy, which helps patients regain strength, flexibility, and mobility.

• Pain Management: Orthopedic surgeons can use various methods to manage pain, including medication, injections, and nerve blocks.

Advanced Technologies

Dr. Cummings’ practice may also utilize advanced technologies to improve patient care, such as:

• Computer-Assisted Surgery: This technology allows surgeons to use 3D images to plan and perform surgeries with greater precision.

• Robotic Surgery: Robotic surgery allows surgeons to perform complex procedures with greater precision and control.

• Regenerative Medicine: This field involves the use of cells, tissues, and organs to repair or replace damaged or diseased tissue.

In conclusion, Robert Cummings, M.D. is an orthopedic surgeon located in Hood River, Oregon, USA. His practice focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of musculoskeletal conditions, and he likely offers a wide range of treatments and advanced technologies to improve patient care.