FAQ – Frequently asked questions about orthopedics in Hamburg

Our approach is clear: conservative first. We want to relieve pain, restore function and avoid surgery when medically acceptable. Each therapy is planned individually – based on anamnesis, examination and targeted diagnostics.

• Evidence-based and patient-centered
• Conservative orthopedics as the standard approach
• Transparent information about benefits, limits and risks
• Interdisciplinary collaboration (physiotherapy, radiology, family doctors)
• Recommendations for self-exercises, training and everyday adjustments

The easiest way to book appointments is online via Doctolib or by email. Please bring previous findings and a current medication list with you, if available.

• Appointment booking: Doctolib (online) or email
• Transfer slip (if required by your health insurance company/indication)
• Preliminary findings: doctor’s letters, X-ray/MRI/CT images (CD/online access) and reports
• Health insurance card, allergy card if applicable and list of medications taken
• Comfortable clothing for examination/flexibility testing

If you have acute warning signs (e.g. paralysis, loss of bladder/bowel control, high fever with severe back pain), please go to an emergency room immediately or call 112.

• Anamnesis: We clarify complaints, previous illnesses, goals and activity level.
• Examination: Orthopedic functional diagnostics, if necessary neurological status.
• Targeted diagnostics: Only when useful – e.g. B. Ultrasound, X-ray. For MRI/CT collaboration with radiological partners in Hamburg.
• Therapy plan: explanation of conservative options, home exercises and follow-up.
• Documentation: You will receive recommendations in writing, including information about training or incapacity to work if medically indicated.

Imaging is helpful when it has a therapeutic consequence. We avoid overdiagnosis and select procedures specifically.

• Ultrasound (sonography): soft tissue, tendons, bursa
• Digital X-ray: bones, joint space, axes (if indicated)
• MRI/CT: Referral to a radiological partner in Hamburg if the question is clear
• Functional and stress tests: everyday and sport-specific

Images are discussed together so that you can understand the findings and consequences.

Most musculoskeletal problems can be treated conservatively. We combine active and passive measures – individually dosed, with clear rehabilitation goals.

• Information, pain education and everyday tips (ergonomics, load control)
• Physical therapy/exercise therapy, home exercise programs
• Manual medicine/chirotherapy (if appropriate)
• Bandages/orthotics and taping for temporary relief
• Medication options at low effective doses and durations when appropriate
• Infiltrations (e.g. cortisone for severe inflammation) according to strict indications

We focus on active rehabilitation. The aim is to gradually get you back into sport, work and everyday life - without making unrealistic promises.

Some procedures may be useful in selected situations. The evidence varies depending on the indication. We clarify the benefits, limitations, possible side effects and costs transparently.

• PRP (autologous blood therapy): e.g. B. for certain tendon irritations or mild osteoarthritis. No guarantee of success; Self-pay service.
• Hyaluronic acid injections: v. a. for osteoarthritis symptoms of individual joints. Effect individual; Self-pay service.
• Shock wave therapy (ESWT): e.g. E.g. for calcified shoulder, heel pain, tennis elbow. effectiveness depending on findings; mostly self-payers.

We will decide together with you whether such a procedure suits your goals - always embedded in an active rehabilitation concept.

Operations sometimes make sense in orthopedics - for example in the case of unstable injuries, treatment-resistant complaints or structural damage with a clear indication for surgery. We will examine this carefully and discuss alternatives.

• Indication only if there is a plausible, patient-relevant improvement
• Second opinions are supported
• If surgery is required: referral and coordination with experienced clinics/surgeons in Hamburg
• Pre- and aftercare in our practice, if medically appropriate

Services are billed according to the fee schedule for doctors (GOÄ). Those with statutory health insurance usually receive health insurance benefits; We offer non-refundable requested or additional services as self-pay services after informed consent.

• GKV: health insurance benefits according to guidelines; IGel (e.g. PRP, Hyaluron, ESWT) upon request after clarification
• PKV/subsidy: Billing according to GOÄ – cost coverage depends on the tariff
• Transparent cost estimates for self-pay services
• Receipts/Reports for your records

It is best to clarify questions about reimbursement with your insurance company in advance. We support you with the necessary documents.

After the treatment has started, we will accompany you throughout your course and adapt the program. The focus is on function, resilience and relapse prevention.

• Individual exercise plans and progression
• Load control (return-to-work/return-to-sport)
• Ergonomics advice for work and everyday life
• If necessary, follow-up checks at reasonable intervals
• Cooperation with physiotherapy and trainers

You can find us at Dorotheenstraße 48, 22301 Hamburg (Winterhude district). Depending on the time of day, plan some buffer time for your journey.

• Public transport and bicycles are often a good choice in Hamburg
• Please report any special needs (e.g. mobility restrictions) in advance - we will provide the best possible support
• Appointments only by appointment

Not every question requires an in-person examination. Follow-up checks, discussions of findings or second opinions are often possible via video - especially if we have previous findings.

• Secure video service according to current standards
• Submit documents digitally in advance
• Physical examination remains important for many complaints - we clarify this on a case-by-case basis

We are an appointment practice and not an emergency room. In case of acute emergencies, dial 112, outside of office hours the medical on-call service on 116117.

• Newly occurring paralysis, sensory disturbances, loss of control of the bladder/intestines
• Severe pain with fever/general deterioration
• Recent accidents with suspected fracture or dislocation
• Rapid increase in swelling/redness with fever

It is important to us that you make informed decisions. If an operation has been suggested or you are unsure, we offer an independent second opinion - structured, comprehensible and without pressure.

• Review of existing findings and imaging
• Explanation of the findings in understandable language
• Discussion of conservative alternatives and realistic expectations
• Joint decision support with advantages and disadvantages

Your data will be protected in accordance with applicable data protection regulations (GDPR). We only transmit medical information via secure channels and with your consent.

• Secure practice software and access concepts
• Sending findings encrypted or personally
• Photos/videos for history only with consent
• No commercial use of your data