Shoulder Pain Keeping You Up at Night? Let’s Fix the Cause.

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Aptiva Health treats the cause of your shoulder pain — not just the symptoms. Immediate appointments, on-site MRI, and a clear treatment plan from board-certified orthopedic and sports medicine specialists across Kentucky and Indiana.

Stop guessing what’s wrong with your shoulder. Get a real answer today!

Shoulder Conditions Treated at Aptiva Health

If your shoulder problem isn’t on this list, we likely still treat it — request an appointment and our team will point you to the right shoulder specialist.

Kentucky & Indiana Patients Trust Aptiva Health

“Dr. Smith has performed 2 shoulder surgeries for me one on my left and one on my right shoulder (which was the second surgery on.my right shoulder. The first was a failed surgery, performed by a different surgeon from a different medical group) and both of the surgeries I received from Dr Smith were excellent. His bedside manner and his forward way of communicating with me in my treatment plan left me with total confidence that I was receiving the best possible care. I would recommend Dr Smith to anyone in need of the services that he and his staff provide.”
— Duane P.
“Dr. Smith is a true miracle worker. He repaired both rotator cuffs (not at the same time) on my shoulders. One was nearly severed and irreparable but he was able to save my shoulder and I avoided a total shoulder replacement. He is an absolutely amazing, talented surgeon. I have been a patient of his since 2011.”
— Joe H.
“I am a 67 year old woman who’s had reverse shoulder replacement by doctor Smith. I have had only pain of a 1 or a 2 on a scale of 10. My recovery has been fast and awesome! Dr. Smith always takes time to listen to me and I think he’s an excellent surgeon! I highly recommend him!”
— Susan D.
“A five star rating for Dr. Stickney is not enough!! He is a compassionate and caring doctor that gets to know his patients and cares about each and every one of them! I would and always recommend him to anyone looking for an orthopedic specialist. He is the BEST!”
— Larry K.
“I recently had a reverse shoulder replacement and Dr Stickney performed the surgery. I could not have asked for a more personal and considerate doctor. I highly recommend.”
— Karen W.
“Dr Wilson was very nice and friendly and listened to my concerns. I felt confident in his expertise in him taking care of me.”
— Shawn T.
Meet our Shoulder Specialists at Aptiva Health

Meet our Shoulder Specialists

Dr. J. Steve Smith is the Director of Orthopedics at Aptiva Health and one of the most highly trained sports medicine orthopedic surgeons in Kentucky. He completed his sports medicine fellowship at the Kerlan-Jobe Orthopaedic Clinic in Los Angeles — the same program that trains team physicians for the LA Dodgers, Lakers, Kings, and Angels — and treats athletes and active patients across Kentucky.

Specialty: Sports Medicine Orthopedic Surgery

Title: Director of Orthopedics, Aptiva Health

Fellowship: Kerlan-Jobe Orthopaedic Clinic, Los Angeles

Residency: University of Rochester

Medical School: University of Kentucky College of Medicine

Locations: Louisville, Lexington, Elizabethtown, and Mt. Washington, Kentucky

Accepting New Patients: Yes

Timothy Wilson, MD is a board-certified orthopaedic surgeon with subspecialty certification in sports medicine, practicing at Aptiva Health since 2019. Dr. Wilson has spent more than 20 years caring for athletes and active patients across Kentucky — including past appointments as team physician for the University of Kentucky Athletics, Kentucky State University, Morehead State University, Georgetown College, and Scott County High School.

Specialty: Sports Medicine Orthopedic Surgery

Title: Sports Orthopedic Surgeon, Aptiva Health

Fellowship: University of Kentucky — Lexington, KY

Locations: Lexington, Kentucky

Accepting New Patients: Yes

D. Philip Stickney, MD, a board -certified orthopedic surgeon, has been providing general orthopedic care for over 25 years. As former team physician for Hiram College in Ohio, he has a breadth of experience treating non-operative and operative conditions including:

  • Bone and soft tissue injuries of hand, shoulder, hip and knee

  • Trigger finger, carpal tunnel, cubital tunnel, rotator cuff tear, labrum tears, shoulder replacement

  • Joint replacement of the shoulder hip and knee

  • Arthroscopy of shoulder and knee including ACL and meniscus surgery

Specialty: General Orthopedic Surgery

Title: Orthopedic Surgeon, Aptiva Health

Locations: Northern Kentucky (Hebron) & Indianapolis

Accepting New Patients: Yes

Common Questions Related to Shoulder Pain

  • How quickly can I be seen for shoulder pain or a shoulder injury?

    • Aptiva Health offers immediate appointments at every location, and same-day appointments are often available for new injuries. After you submit the request form, our team calls you back within one business day to schedule.

  • Do I need a referral to be seen?

    • No. You can schedule directly with Aptiva Health without a physician referral. We also welcome patients seeking a second opinion — including those who've been told they need shoulder surgery elsewhere.

  • Will my insurance cover my visit?

    • Aptiva Health accepts most major medical insurance plans, Medicare, Medicare Advantage, Medicaid plans, workers' compensation, and auto injury coverage (PIP and Medpay). We also offer transparent cash-pay pricing. Our team verifies your benefits before your visit so there are no surprises.

  • Will I need shoulder surgery?

    • Most shoulder pain doesn’t require surgery. Our orthopedic team starts with conservative care — physical therapy, targeted injections, and activity modification — and only recommends surgery when imaging and symptoms both clearly call for it. Many patients get full relief without ever needing an operation, including many rotator cuff and frozen shoulder cases.

  • What if I've already had an MRI or seen another doctor?

    • That's fine — many of our patients come to us for a second opinion or to transfer their care. Bring your prior imaging and notes and our team will review them as part of your evaluation.

  • Do you treat shoulder injuries from sports, work, or a car accident?

Locations where Aptiva Health Treats Shoulder Pain

Questions? Call us today! 1-866-439-6704

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