Robert Hartzler, M.D. - Shoulder & Elbow Surgeon

Robert Hartzler, M.D. - Shoulder & Elbow Surgeon: An Orthopedic Specialist’s Journey

Robert Hartzler, M.D. is a shoulder and elbow surgeon, a specialist in the field of orthopedics. His expertise lies in the diagnosis and treatment of conditions affecting the shoulder and elbow joints, including injuries, degenerative diseases, and congenital defects. This article will delve into the training, skills, and competencies of Dr. Hartzler, providing a comprehensive understanding of his role as an orthopedic specialist.

Training and Education

Dr. Hartzler’s journey began with a Bachelor’s degree in Biology, which he earned after four years of undergraduate studies. He then pursued a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree, which took another four years to complete. Following his medical education, Dr. Hartzler embarked on an orthopedic residency, a five-year program that provided hands-on learning in a medical setting. This training allowed him to gain a deep understanding of the musculoskeletal system and the various conditions that can affect it.

Skills and Competencies

As a shoulder and elbow surgeon, Dr. Hartzler possesses a range of skills and competencies that enable him to diagnose and treat a variety of conditions. These include:

• Diagnostic skills: He is adept at identifying the root cause of shoulder and elbow issues, whether they are due to injury, degenerative disease, or congenital defects.
• Surgical skills: Dr. Hartzler is trained to perform a broad range of surgical procedures, from minimally invasive arthroscopic surgeries to more complex open procedures, depending on the patient’s needs.
• Non-surgical therapies: He is also skilled in non-surgical treatments, such as physical therapy, pain management, and other conservative therapies, which he may recommend before considering surgery.

Areas of Specialization

Dr. Hartzler’s area of specialization is the shoulder and elbow joints. He is well-versed in the anatomy, physiology, and pathology of these joints, and he is equipped to treat a wide range of conditions, including:

• Shoulder conditions: Rotator cuff injuries, shoulder impingement, shoulder instability, and shoulder arthritis.
• Elbow conditions: Tennis elbow, golfer’s elbow, elbow fractures, and elbow arthritis.

Treatment Approach

Dr. Hartzler’s treatment approach is personalized, taking into account each patient’s unique needs and preferences. He may recommend a combination of surgical and non-surgical therapies, depending on the severity of the condition and the patient’s overall health. His goal is to help patients achieve optimal function and mobility in their shoulder and elbow joints.

In conclusion, Robert Hartzler, M.D. is an orthopedic specialist with a focus on shoulder and elbow surgery. His extensive training and expertise in the musculoskeletal system enable him to provide comprehensive care to patients with conditions affecting these joints.