About Your Orthopedic Surgeon
Meet Dr. Michael Schicker
Choosing an orthopedic surgeon is a decision about trust. You want to know that the person treating you has the experience to get it right, the judgement to recommend the right option, and the time to understand what getting better actually means for your life.
That is how I approach every patient I see.
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How I Practice Orthopedics
My role, as an orthopedic surgeon, is not simply to operate. It is to help you understand what is happening in your body, what your options are, and which path is most likely to get you back to moving comfortably and confidently again.
Some patients need surgery. Many do not. My job is to guide you to the right decision, not the fastest one.
I trained extensively across joint replacement, sports medicine, trauma, and fracture care, which allows me to look at orthopedic problems from more than one angle rather than offering every patient the same solution.
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Becoming an Orthopedic Surgeon
I received my osteopathic medical degree from Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences and completed my residency as an orthopedic surgeon at St Mary’s Medical Center and North Kansas City Hospital in Missouri.
Training and Experience That Shape My Approach
During my training, I also gained extensive experience in joint replacement surgery, orthopedic trauma, and fracture repair at University Medical Center in Las Vegas
Following residency, I completed a fellowship in orthopedic sports medicine in South Lake Tahoe, where I trained alongside surgeons treating everyone from elite competitive athletes to highly active outdoor enthusiasts. During this time, I served as a team physician for the U.S. Men’s and Women’s Alpine Ski Teams at multiple World Cup events across Europe, experience that sharpened both my technical skills and my understanding of performance level recovery
I continue to serve as an official medical provider for the U.S. Ski and Snowboard Association, staying closely connected to the latest techniques in sports medicine and injury management.
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Surgical Expertise
When surgery is necessary, I focus on techniques that prioritise precision, stability, and recovery.
When Surgery Is the Right Answer
I regularly perform minimally invasive arthroscopic procedures such as ACL reconstruction and rotator cuff repair. For hip replacement, I use the direct anterior approach, which can allow for faster recovery and reduced post operative discomfort. I also perform shoulder and knee replacements, including advanced options such as robotic assisted knee replacement surgery
A significant part of my practice involves outpatient joint replacement at Pend Oreille Surgery Center, allowing many patients to return home the same day with appropriate support and follow up care.
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A Strong Emphasis on Non-Surgical Solutions
Not every orthopedic condition requires surgery, and I place a strong emphasis on non-operative treatment whenever appropriate.
As a holistic orthopedic surgeon, I regularly use regenerative and orthobiologic treatments, including platelet rich plasma injections, viscosupplementation injections, and peptide therapy, to reduce pain, improve function, and support tissue healing. I also perform a range of in-office procedures for hand and wrist conditions such as carpal tunnel, trigger finger, and DeQuervain’s release.
This balanced approach allows me to recommend surgery only when it is truly the best option, not the default one.
Conditions I Commonly Treat
My practice focuses on comprehensive care for the knee, hip, shoulder, and hand, wrist, and elbow. This includes degenerative conditions such as osteoarthritis, sports related injuries, cartilage damage, fractures, instability, and chronic overuse conditions.
Whether the problem is a recent injury or something that has been limiting you for years, the goal is the same, restore movement, reduce pain, and help you return to the activities that matter to you.
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Outside the Clinic
I am an avid swimmer and spend as much time outdoors as possible. I enjoy hiking, camping, fishing, skiing, and mountain biking with my wife and three children.
Staying active myself reinforces how important it is for my patients to feel confident in their bodies again, not just pain free, but capable.
Taking the Next Step
If you are dealing with joint pain, an injury, or a condition that is limiting your movement, the first step is a clear diagnosis and an honest conversation.
I would be glad to help you understand your options and decide on the best path forward.
Book a consultation to start that conversation with Dr. Schicker, orthopedic surgeon.
