Osteoarthritis of Hand near University Place, WA

Care Philosophy: Neil Shah, MD, is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon with a subspecialty in hand surgery.

Biography: Once management short of surgery has failed, Dr. Ghidella tries to speed recovery and improve function surgically with a combination of traditional techniques that have proven reliable and the latest techniques that depend on current technology. His goal is to restore function to his patients and get them back to their daily activities as quickly as possible by solving their orthopedic problem, big or small.

Biography: I enjoy the challenges of restoring people to health through my practice. The work I did in biochemistry opened up new approaches for treating complex problems and made me a more detailed clinician.

Care Philosophy: Dr. Vercio is passionate about patient education and partnering with patients, working together to help them make the best treatment decisions. He is skilled in ultrasound of the upper extremity for diagnosis and treatments and is co-author of a textbook to assist other physicians with these useful exams and techniques. Dr. Vercio has also spent time in developing countries from Nepal to Haiti and plans to continue helping those in need.

Care Philosophy: Lance L. Bear, MD, is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon who provides expert surgical care for a variety of general orthopedic conditions, with particular interest in surgery of the hand. Whether he is treating a sports-related injury, a repetitive stress condition or an osteoporosis-related fracture, Dr. Bear partners with his patients to develop customized solutions that will get them back to actively living the life they love. A member of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, Dr. Bear is committed to making a difference in his patients' lives through expert, compassionate care.

Care Philosophy: Board certified in rheumatology and internal medicine, Dr. Wang is fellowship-trained and specializes in rheumatology. Dr. Wang is committed to providing comprehensive treatment and taking a holistic view of the health of each of his patients. Dr. Wang has a broad interest and experience in treating patients with health issues ranging from rheumatoid arthritis and osteoporosis to carpal tunnel syndrome, tendinitis and vasculitis. He also provides care for patients suffering from other chronic conditions, such as lupus and gout. Dr. Wang is experienced in procedures to alleviate pain and speed recovery, including joint/soft tissue injections and ultrasound-guided diagnosis and treatment of musculoskeletal disorders. He is a member of the American College of Rheumatology. Dr. Wang is fluent in English and Chinese.

Biography: Dr. John Heffernan, MD is an Orthopedic Surgery Specialist who practices in Tacoma, WA. He is 42 years old. Dr. John Heffernan, MD is affiliated with St. Joseph Medical Center.

Care Philosophy: He strives to partner with his patients and assist them to take a critical role in their own care and well-being. For the control of acute and chronic pain, he draws from multiple modalities ranging from physical therapy and injections, to complementary medicine and surgery. Each program is tailored to the patient, not to the diagnosis. Dr. Swedarsky has a strong formal education in electrodiagnostic testing and the use of ultrasound. He also has training in the neurophysiology of pain and practices osteopathic manipulation. Dr. Swedarsky is a veteran who served as a physician for wounded warriors, family members and veterans. After completing his residency at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, he was transferred to Joint-Base Lewis McChord, where he completed his military service obligation as Chief of the Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Service.

Care Philosophy: Dr. Jeffrey Harrison provides personal, comprehensive care for people of all ages, and is particularly interested in sports medicine and women's health care. Dr. Harrison believes in the importance of cooperation between the physician and patient in the prevention of disease and disability. He serves as a diligent patient advocate and works with other medical providers to assure the highest levels of quality and continuity when complicated or chronic medical conditions arise.

Care Philosophy: I am an old fashion physician. I like to spend time get a complete history, perform a physical examination and come up with a clinical diagnosis before ordering tests. I like my patients to be part of the decision making process as far as further diagnostic testing and treatment options.