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About Orthopedic Specialists

Orthopedic Specialists of Seattle provides new and advanced procedures including endoscopic carpel tunnel release surgery for carpal tunnel syrome, complex joint restoration procedures, anterior approach hip replacement surgery, and more.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) – Accredited Facility

Seattle Orthopedic Center has been awarded a three-year term of accreditation in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) as the result of a recent review by the American College of Radiology (ACR).

The ACR gold seal of accreditation represents the highest level of image quality and patient safety.  It is awarded only to facilities meeting ACR Practice Parameters and Technical Standards after a peer-review evaluation by board-certified physicians and medical physicists who are experts in the field. Image quality, personnel qualifications, adequacy of facility equipment, quality control procedures and quality assurance programs are assessed.

Orthopedic Surgeon vs Podiatrist

There is often confusion regarding the difference between orthopedic surgeons specializing in the foot and ankle and podiatrists. There is significant overlap between the two specialties in terms the types of issues they treat.

Commonalities between an Orthopedic Surgeon and Podiatrist

medical studentsBoth orthopedic surgeons specializing in foot and ankle surgery as well as podiatrists treats a myriad of conditions effecting the foot and ankle include the following:

  • Injuries such as a fractures, sprains, and strains
  • Congenital deformities
  • Degenerative changes
  • Nerve entrapments

The Difference

Ultimately there is a difference in the training providers from each specialty go through. Orthopedic surgeons complete a 4 year undergraduate degree, 4 years of medical school, 5 years of a general surgical residency, and typically an additional year in a orthopedic subspecialty, such as foot and ankle. They must then practice in the field of orthopedic surgery to become board certified. Podiatrists complete a 4 year undergraduate degree, 4 years of pediatric school, and 3 years of residency.

Here at Orthopedic Specialists of Seattle we have Dr. Mark Reed, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in conditions of the foot ankle. He is supported by an excellent team of physician assistants.