Maksym KuzaievA while back, my knee started making sounds that were way too dramatic for my liking—think popcorn in a microwave every time I stood up. Honestly, I had no idea where to start looking for someone who could unpop my joints.
If you’ve ever felt lost trying to find a good orthopaedic specialist in Ottawa, you’re in luck! Because, after lots of asking every aunt and neighbour for recommendations, we found out Ottawa has some serious bone wizards just waiting to help.
And so, my crew and I decided to put together a list of the top orthopaedic specialists in town to make your search a whole lot easier. Take a peek below—your bones will thank you!
How much do orthopaedic services cost in Ottawa?
In Ottawa, orthopaedic services like hip or knee replacement surgery typically cost between $6,400 and $8,000 at major hospitals and clinics, depending on the procedure and facility.
Consultations and non-surgical treatments can start at around $125 for an initial assessment, with specialized injections or minor procedures ranging from $199 to $1,699.
1. Dr. Darryl Young – Ottawa Orthopaedic Centre
Address: 1371 Woodroffe Ave, Unit D, Nepean
Phone: +1 613 225 1188
Business Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 8 AM to 4 PM
Dr. Young holds his MD from Memorial University of Newfoundland and did his residency at the University of Ottawa.
Though what stood out to us was his deep sub-specialization—especially in shoulder arthroscopy and joint replacement, skills he sharpened at Western University and all the way in New Zealand.
On top of being Chief of Surgery at Kemptville District Hospital, he manages his surgical practice between there and Queensway Carleton, making him incredibly sought after.
And because of this, waiting times can get a bit long—definitely not ideal if you need an urgent appointment. On the bright side, previous patients highlighted Dr. Young’s clarity when walking you through a procedure to follow up, leaving no grey areas.
Furthermore, the Ottawa Orthopaedic Centre itself is set up to make everything from diagnostics to rehab (think: physiotherapy, sports medicine, and even ACL rehab programs) as seamless as possible, so you don’t need to bounce around different locations.
Thorough, responsive, and caring team
“Dr. Young and the staff at the ortho clinic as well as the those in the hospital for day surgery were all amazing, caring, and professional. You are in good hands with him and his team – they are thorough and meticulous and quick to respond to inquiries.”
Tim V., Google Review
Outstanding surgical results
“Dr Young is an amazing orthopedic surgeon – full shoulder replacement last year and my shoulder is amazing – full mobility and absolutely no pain.”
Name, Google Review
2. Dr. Peter Lapner – The Ottawa Hospital Research Institute (OHRI)
Address: 501 Smyth Rd.
Phone: +1 613 737 8377
Business Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 9 AM to 5 PM
Dr. Peter Lapner at The Ottawa Hospital is trained at some of the top orthopedic centres here and overseas, and he’s not just “up to date” with the latest research; he’s leading a bunch of it right from the Ottawa Hospital Research Institute.
So if you want someone who knows the difference between old-school surgery and the newest repair techniques, you’re in the right place.
Something we noticed when talking with past patients: no one feels rushed with him. Dr. Lapner lays out all the options—surgical, non-surgical, you name it—and doesn’t sugarcoat what recovery’s going to look like.
That kind of honesty is rare and really helps prepare for what’s ahead. His team is super helpful and accommodating—they try hard to work with your schedule, and the follow-up care gets lots of praise.
The hospital itself isn’t just a big name—the orthopaedic wing feels modern and connected, with everything from day surgeries to recovery programs in one spot.
But, fair warning: email or phone replies can take a while, especially if he’s slammed with surgeries or research.
Clear explanations and attentive care
“Dr Lapner did a full shoulder replacement on my left side. He helped me understand what was being done. Under his care I was treated quite well. When it is time for the right, I will make sure he does that one as well.”
Pat Belore, Google Review
Great results and supportive follow-up
“Thanks for helping me fix my mistake. I was a marathon wrist. I am completely, ok not completely, but almost completely the same. Good job doc!”
Stacey Hamilton, Google Review
3. Dr. Erik Ouellette – Orthopedic Medicine Clinic
Address: 2555 St Joseph Boulevard #403, Orléans
Phone: +1 613 824 4223
Business Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 8 AM to 8 PM
Website
Dr. Erik Ouellette’s clinic in Orleans is definitely worth talking about. From the get-go, you feel the difference—this place is rooted in family medicine, and there’s something genuine about their whole setup.
No big hospital vibes here; it’s just cozy, clean, and never overwhelming, which we really appreciate. Dr. Oullette’s credentials are impressive—he’s trained in emergency medicine and pain care and has those extra certifications in IROM and regenerative orthopedics.
His staff was quick to point out his long track record of training other doctors and the fact that he’s actually been offering stuff like PRP and prolotherapy for ages—we come across a few patients in the waiting area for these procedures!
Their scope is pretty wide: osteoarthritis, spine, persistent post-surgery pain, jaw, headaches—you name it, Oullette probably covers it.
Now, a heads-up: getting an appointment can take some patience, since Dr. Oullette is pretty much the guy for everything ortho in the east end.
Restored mobility and thoughtful care
“Dr. Oulette’s ability to pinpoint areas of dysfunction and treat the problem (in my case with prolotherapy) has been vastly freedom-giving to me as I age. I thought I would have to slow down approaching 60, but I’ve been able to speed up (slowly and carefully 😄). His staff are lovely people too! Merci! …”
Maggie, Google Review
Sustainable, long-lasting results
“Extremely competent and knowledgeable Doctor. This is by far the only treatment that has given me sustainable and long lasting results compared to all the other disciplines that I have tried (physio,osteo, chiropractic,etc). 10/10 for the doctor and his staff!”
Adam, Google Review
4. Dr. Bogdan A. Matache – The Ottawa Hospital
Address: Civic Campus – 1053 Carling Ave.
Phone: +1 613 737 8899
Business Hours:
- Open 24 hours
Dr. Bogdan A. Matache’s approach is anything but generic—his practice zeroes in on complex knee reconstruction and advanced arthroscopy for the hip and shoulder. So if you’ve been sidelined by sports injuries or ongoing joint issues, he’s the doctor to call.
With degrees from McGill, a residency at UOttawa, and two top-tier fellowships, he’s stacked up experience both in Canada and New York.
We particularly liked learning about his active role with sports teams—being the team physician for PWHL Ottawa and the Gatineau Olympiques shows he really gets the demands of athletes and active folks.
Patients we heard from said his explanations are always clear, and his staff, including his admin, Ashley, really helps streamline the details.
The Ottawa Hospital’s Civic Campus itself has a solid reputation, staying current with research and innovation—so you know you’re being seen in a facility that’s up-to-date and safe.
Our only gripe is that Dr. Matache’s working schedule isn’t clearly laid out online, so you may have to play a little phone tag to lock down your appointment.
Thorough, supportive care
“Dr. Matache performed surgery to repair the ACL in my left knee in July 2024. Before booking my surgery he did a thorough evaluation of my injury, and provided me with different options, detailing the different pros and cons of rebab versus surgery. Ultimately, I chose surgery and feel I could not have been in more competent hands. I was given all of the information I needed pre and post my operation, and felt well supported throughout by Dr. Matache and his staff. Dr. Matache is friendly, kind, and highly knowledgeable about his field, and I could not recommend him more.”
Martha Nicol Battat, Google Review
Exceptional attention to detail
“I had the opportunity to be under the care of Dr. Matache, and my experience was phenomenal. He has exceptional attention to detail, which was evident at every stage of assessment, surgical planning, and postoperative care. He also had excellent communication skills.
In addition, Dr. Matache and his office demonstrate remarkable responsiveness. Inquiries are addressed promptly, follow-up care is coordinated efficiently, and the overall experience is seamless.”
Nagi Mikhail, Google Review
